If you buy any skin care products, including lotion, creams, and soap, you likely already know about glycerin. It’s a common ingredient in many beauty and skincare products. And while it's not exactly the flashiest ingredient on the block, it's got some serious skin-loving benefits.

First off, what exactly is glycerin? Simply put, it's a clear, odorless liquid that can be derived from natural sources like vegetable oils or created synthetically. Glycerin is great for the skin because it acts as a humectant, or a substance that allows the skin to retain moisture.

Why is Glycerin Important?

So, why should you care about glycerin? Well, your skin is like a sponge, constantly soaking up moisture from the environment to stay hydrated and healthy. Glycerin is like a magnet for moisture, drawing it into your skin and locking it in and helping your skin stay hydrated and soft. Plus, it's a natural, super-gentle ingredient, so it's suitable for all skin types, even if you're prone to sensitivity or breakouts. In addition to helping your skin retain moisture, it can help relieve dryness, inflammation and irritation, plus refresh the skin’s surface. It’s also an emollient, which means it can soften skin. Glycerin also has antimicrobial properties, which means it can protect the skin from harmful microorganisms and packs a punch as an antioxidant, helping to protect your skin from the harmful effects of pollution and UV rays.

Benefits of Glycerin

In the words of Dr. Ramya Garlapati, an LA-based, board-certified dermatologist, certified makeup artist and co-founder of Skin Medicinals, “Glycerin is a humectant that draws in moisture from the environment into the skin to hydrate it,” explains “It has a lower molecular weight giving it the added benefit of being able to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin to provide deep hydration.”

Keeping your skin well-hydrated is one of the best ways to guard against premature aging and when skin is adequately moisturized, it will appear plumper, firmer and with fewer lines and wrinkles. So with a super-hydrating ingredient like glycerin, you can expect the skin to drink in all that moisture and the visible benefits to go along with it.

The best way to take advantage of all of the benefits glycerin can offer is to make sure your beauty and bath products are fortified with nourishing natural glycerin. Our silky whipped soap is a glycerin-packed powerhouse that will gently cleanse while hydrating, leaving your skin feeling soft, smooth, and extra-hydrated.

Whether you're dealing with dryness, redness, or just want to give your skin a little extra TLC, glycerin has got your back. So, next time you're scanning the ingredient list on your favorite skincare products, keep an eye out for this unsung hero. Your skin will thank you for it.