Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a versatile and widely used compound that offers numerous health benefits for your body. From skincare to nail health and foot care, glycerin has a wide range of applications. In this article, we will explore the history, nutritional profile, and top three health benefits of glycerin. So, let’s dive into the world of glycerin and discover why it should be a part of your health routine.
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Glycerin Summary
| Nutrient name: | Glycerin |
| Nutrient picture: |  |
| Origin: | Cape Provinces and the Northern Provinces of South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. |
| Other names: | Glycerol, Glycerine, Trihydrowypropane. |
| Supplements that contain this nutrient: | Metanail Serum Pro For Glowing Skin & Nails. |
| Main benefits: | Glycerin for Skin Health, Glycerin for Nail Health, Glycerin for Foot Care. |
| Related nutrients: | Hyaluronic Acid, Lactic Acid. |
| Top recipes with this nutrient: | Vegetable Glycerin and Lemon Juice Toner, Home Made Body Wash, Mint Chip Ice Cream. |
What Is Glycerin?
Glycerin is a colorless, odorless, and sweet-tasting liquid. It is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in animal fats and vegetable oils. Glycerin has a unique ability to attract and retain moisture, making it an excellent ingredient for moisturizing and hydrating the skin. Due to its versatile properties, glycerin is widely used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries. This liquid also has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making it useful for treating minor skin conditions.
Other Names for Glycerin
Glycerin is also commonly known as
- Glycerol,
- Glycerine,
- Trihydrowypropane.
These names are often used interchangeably, but they all refer to the same compound.
The History of Glycerin and its Origins
The discovery of glycerin dates back to the late 18th century when a Swedish chemist named Carl Wilhelm Scheele first isolated it from a mixture of olive oil and lead monoxide. According to studies, Glycerin was serendipitously discovered in 1779 by K. W. Scheele, a Swedish chemist. While heating a mixture of olive oil (EU) and litharge (lead monoxide), Scheele stumbled upon what he would later call the “sweet principle of fat.”
Through further experimentation, he found that various metals and glycerides yielded the same chemical reaction, resulting in the production of glycerin and soap. In 1783, Scheele documented his method of preparation in the transactions of the Royal Academy of Sweden, and this technique became the basis for commercial glycerin production for many years.
However, it was not until the mid-19th century that the commercial production of glycerin began. Today, glycerin is produced on a large scale by the hydrolysis of fats and oils, primarily through the soap-making process.
Nutritional Profile of Glycerin
Although glycerin is not typically consumed as a nutrient, it does contribute to the overall health of your body. Glycerin is a carbohydrate, but it does not significantly impact blood sugar levels. It contains approximately 4.3 calories per gram, making it a relatively low-calorie substance. However, it is important to note that glycerin should be consumed in moderation, as excessive intake may have laxative effects. One gram of Glycerin contains:
Fat (67 g)
Calories (4 kcal)
Carbs (1g)
Sodium (2300 mg)
Cholesterol (300 mg)
Source: My Fitness Pal
The Top 3 Glycerin Health Benefits For Your Body
Glycerin for Skin Health
One of the most well-known benefits of glycerin is its ability to promote healthy skin. Glycerin acts as a humectant, which means it helps the skin retain moisture and increase skin hydration. According to studies, it forms a protective layer on the outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, and prevents water loss. This helps to keep the skin hydrated, soft, and supple. Glycerin is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and it can help alleviate dryness, itching, and flakiness. You can benefit from glycerin by applying it directly to the skin or using a product that contains it.
Glycerin for Nail Health
In addition to its benefits for the skin, glycerin can also promote healthy nails. Glycerin moisturizes and nourishes the cuticles, preventing them from becoming dry and brittle. Studies show that it also strengthens the nails, making them less prone to breakage. Regular application of glycerin to the nails can improve their appearance and overall health. Making glycerin a part of your nail care routine can help you maintain strong and healthy nails.
Glycerin for Foot Care
Glycerin is an excellent ingredient for foot care. Health reports show that its moisturizing properties can help soften rough and dry skin on the feet, making them smoother and more comfortable. You can use glycerin to make homemade foot scrubs or add them to your favorite foot creams and lotions for enhanced hydration. Regular use of glycerin can keep your feet looking and feeling their best. Are you looking for a way to make your feet softer and smoother? Try adding glycerin to your foot care routine!
That’s why most people with ugly nails and rough, dry feet turn to Metanail Serum Pro for their nail and foot care needs. Our 20-in-1 formula, packed with powerful and natural ingredients like glycerin, ensures superior and long-lasting results.
Experience the incredible benefits of glycerin for your nails and feet with Metanail Serum Pro – the ultimate solution for healthy and beautiful nails and feet. Say goodbye to dry, brittle nails and rough, cracked feet and say hello to nourished, hydrated, and stunning nails and feet.
How To Use Glycerin For Health Benefits?
Different Ways to Apply Glycerin
There are several ways to apply glycerin for its health benefits:
Direct application: You can apply pure glycerin directly to your skin or nails. Make sure to cleanse the area properly before application and massage the glycerin gently until it is absorbed.
Glycerin-based skincare products: Look for skincare products that contain glycerin as one of the main ingredients. These products can provide additional moisture and nourishment to your skin.
Glycerin for hair: Glycerin can also be used to improve the moisture balance of your hair. You can mix it with your shampoo or conditioner or use it as a leave-in treatment.
Glycerin-Rich Foods
Glycerin is not commonly found in natural foods. However, some processed foods, such as soft candies and sweet baked goods, may contain glycerin as a sweetener or humectant. Glycerin occurs naturally in fermented foods and beverages, such as beer, honey, vinegar, wine, and wine vinegar. Additionally, it can be produced commercially by extracting it from fats and oils or through yeast, sugar, or starch fermentation.
It is important to note that excessive consumption of these foods may not provide the same health benefits as direct glycerin application to the skin or nails.
Glycerin for Skincare
If you prefer a DIY approach, you can incorporate glycerin into your homemade skincare products. Here’s a simple recipe for a glycerin-based moisturizer:
Homemade Glycerin Moisturizer:
Mix 2 tablespoons of glycerin with 1 tablespoon of rose water.
Apply the mixture to your face and neck using clean fingertips.
Massage gently until fully absorbed.
Use daily for best results.
Top 3 Glycerin Recipes
Glycerin has numerous benefits for the skin, nails, and hair, so it’s no surprise that many people are incorporating this powerhouse ingredient into their beauty routines. Here are three simple recipes to help you get started!
Vegetable Glycerin and Lemon Juice Toner
Ingredients:
2 tbsp vegetable glycerin
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp witch hazel
Instructions:
Combine the vegetable glycerin, lemon juice, and witch hazel in a small bowl, ensuring a thorough mixture.
Gently apply to the face using a cotton pad and allow it to dry.
Apply your regular moisturizer afterward to complete your skincare routine.
Source: Clean Beauty Coach
Home Made Body Wash
Ingredients:
1 cup distilled or filtered water
1/4 cup Liquid Castile Soap Unscented
1 teaspoon vegetable glycerine
10- 15 drops essential oils. Any scent you like.
Directions:
Combine all the ingredients in a compact bowl, gently stirring them together.
Transfer the contents into a securely sealed, durable container to prevent breakage.
Can be used as a hand soap or body wash.
Source: Today’s Creative Life
Mint Chip Ice Cream
Ingredients:
1 large ripe pear (6.5 oz or 190g), cored (peel if desired—not necessary)
About 1/3 cup (80 ml) avocado purée (from one small to medium just-ripe avocado)
45-70 fresh mint leaves (depending on the size of the leaves and your taste)
2 Tbsp (30 ml) vegetable glycerin, yacon syrup, or coconut nectar
20-30 drops of plain or vanilla stevia liquid, to your taste
1 tsp (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
1 can (400 ml or 14 oz) full-fat organic coconut milk (I use Native Forest)
1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened plain or vanilla soy or almond milk
1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) pure mint extract, optional (but it really brings out the flavor)
Pinch fine sea salt
1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened carob or chocolate chips (1 Tbsp/15 ml per serving)
Directions:
Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square pan with two sheets of waxed paper, overlapping in a way that covers all sides of the pan. Alternatively, you can use 10 silicone muffin cups arranged in a muffin tin, or three silicone ice cube trays.
Combine all ingredients, excluding carob chips, in a high-powered blender. Blend until the mixture is perfectly smooth.
Pour the mixture into a pan, muffin cups, or ice cube trays, and freeze until it becomes firm.
Once frozen, remove the mixture from the muffin cups or ice cube trays and transfer it to a clean, food-grade plastic bag.
Store it in the freezer until you’re ready to use it. If you’re using a square pan, wait until the mixture is completely frozen (approximately 4 hours), then remove it from the pan by flipping it onto a cutting board and peeling off the waxed paper.
Cut the frozen mixture into 8-10 equal squares and place them in a plastic bag in the freezer until you’re ready to use them.
To prepare the ice cream, take out the desired portions from the freezer bag (one muffin cup per serving, or 4 ice cubes, or one square from the square pan) and transfer them to the bowl of a food processor.
Process until the mixture resembles bread crumbs in texture, then scrape down the sides and continue processing until it starts to come together as a ball.
Using a rubber spatula, spread the mixture evenly in the processor bowl to cover the bottom; sprinkle with the carob chips set aside (enough for the chosen number of servings).
Put the cover back on the processor and pulse 5-10 times, just enough to break up most of the chips and distribute them throughout the mixture. Scoop into bowls and enjoy immediately. This recipe yields 8 servings.
Source: Ricki Heller
Top 3 Glycerin Supplements for Better Health
Glycerin is a naturally derived product with many amazing health benefits. It can help to reduce inflammation, maintain hydrated skin, and improve digestive health. For those who are looking for an easy way to get all the benefits of glycerin, there’s no need to look beyond some of the best available supplements on the market. Here are our top picks:
NOW Solutions, Vegetable Glycerin
NOW Solutions, Vegetable Glycerin is a natural emollient that’s perfect for nourishing and moisturizing the skin. This pure vegetable glycerin is derived from non-GMO palm and coconut oils and is made without animal testing. It’s a versatile product that can be used to create soaps, lotions, shampoos, and more!
NOW Solutions, Vegetable Glycerin Main Benefits:
Non-GMO and Gluten-free: NOW Solutions, Vegetable Glycerin is vegan and non-GMO certified. It’s also gluten-free and contains no animal ingredients or testing.
Natural emollient: This product helps to nourish and moisturize the skin without any unwanted side effects.
Versatile formula: Vegetable glycerin can be used for a variety of different applications such as soaps, lotions, creams, and shampoos.
NOW Solutions, Vegetable Glycerin Price:
At $8.03, this product is a great way to get all the benefits of glycerin without breaking the bank. It’s also very affordable and easy to find online or in many health and wellness stores.
Raw Plus Rare Vegetable Glycerin/Glycerine Quart
Raw Plus Rare Vegetable Glycerin/Glycerine Quart is a great choice for anyone looking for a more natural and organic source of glycerin. This product is made from non-GMO, kosher, and halal sources, and is free of chemicals, dyes, alcohols, artificial colors, and fragrances. It’s also vegan-friendly!
Raw Plus Rare Vegetable Glycerin/Glycerine Quart Main Benefits:
Natural and organic sources of glycerin: This product is made from non-GMO, kosher, and halal sources. It’s also free of chemicals, dyes, alcohols, artificial colors and fragrances.
Versatile application: The raw plus rare vegetable glycerin can be used for a variety of different applications such as soaps, cosmetics, hair care, and more.
Multi-purpose: This product can be used for a variety of purposes such as making soap base oil, moisturizing skin and hair, crafting projects, and more.
Raw Plus Rare Vegetable Glycerin/Glycerine Quart Price:
At $12.99, this product is a great value for anyone looking for an all-natural and organic source of glycerin. It’s also very affordable and easy to find online or in many health and wellness stores.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer for the face is a great choice for anyone looking to get the benefits of glycerin and sun protection in one product. This moisturizer provides 4 different types of sunscreens, niacinamide which helps with skin clarity, and glycerin which helps hydrate the skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer Main Benefits:
Sun Protection: This moisturizer provides 4 different types of sunscreens, perfect for daily use and protection from the sun.
Niacinamide: This form of vitamin B helps to reduce the appearance of skin discoloration and improves overall skin clarity.
Glycerin: The included glycerin helps to provide the skin with hydration and softness, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer Price:
At $21.99, this product is a great choice for anyone looking to get the benefits of glycerin and sun protection in one product.
Risks of Consuming Glycerin (Side Effects)
While glycerin is generally safe for topical use, consuming excessive amounts may have laxative effects. Glycerin is occasionally used as a laxative in the form of suppositories. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using glycerin suppositories or any other laxative products.
Glycerin vs. Other Moisturizing Agents
Glycerin is often compared to other moisturizing agents, such as hyaluronic acid and lactic acid. Let’s take a closer look at how glycerin stacks up against these substances:
Glycerin vs. Hyaluronic Acid
Both glycerin and hyaluronic acid are humectants that help the skin retain moisture. However, hyaluronic acid has a larger molecular weight, allowing it to hold even more water than glycerin. Hyaluronic acid is commonly used in skincare products targeting deep hydration and anti-aging. Glycerin, on the other hand, is suitable for daily use and can be found in a wide range of skincare products.
Glycerin vs. Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the skin and promotes cell turnover. While glycerin primarily focuses on moisturizing and hydrating the skin, lactic acid offers additional benefits by gently exfoliating and brightening the complexion. Both glycerin and lactic acid can be beneficial for maintaining healthy skin, and their effects can be enhanced when used together.
Conclusion: Why Glycerin Should Be Part of Your Health Routine
Glycerin is a versatile and effective compound that offers numerous health benefits for your body. From promoting healthy skin to improving nail health and foot care, glycerin is a valuable addition to your health routine. Its ability to retain moisture and hydrate the skin makes it a popular ingredient in skincare products. Whether you use glycerin directly on your skin and nails or incorporate it into your homemade recipes, you can enjoy the benefits of this amazing compound.
If you’re looking for a gentle and effective way to improve the health of your skin, try adding glycerin to your skincare routine. With its unique moisturizing properties, glycerin can help keep your skin healthy and hydrated throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glycerin
Is glycerin good or bad for you?
Glycerin is generally considered good for you when used in moderation. It offers various health benefits, especially for the skin, nails, and foot care. However, excessive consumption of glycerin may have laxative effects. It’s important to consult with your healthcare professional before using glycerin in any form.
Is glycerin OK for the skin?
Yes, glycerin is safe to use on the skin. It is a common ingredient in skin care products and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Glycerin helps to hydrate and moisturize the skin, promoting a healthy skin barrier. It can also be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and dry, cracked skin. Glycerin is often found in soaps, lotions, moisturizers, and other skincare products.
Does glycerin spike blood sugar?
Glycerin has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. It is considered safe for individuals with diabetes when consumed in moderation. Glycerin does not contain any sugar and is low in calories, making it a suitable sweetening agent for people looking to reduce their sugar intake. It is also suitable for use in baking and can help to add moisture and sweetness. However, it is important to consult with your healthcare professional before using glycerin as part of your health routine.
What does glycerin do for the skin?
Glycerin helps the skin retain moisture, prevents water loss, and promotes hydration. It also improves the texture and appearance of the skin, making it softer and more supple. Glycerin is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It can be used to treat dryness and irritation associated with various skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, glycerin has anti-aging properties that help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Is glycerin better than hyaluronic acid?
Glycerin and hyaluronic acid both have their advantages. While glycerin is suitable for daily use and can be found in a wide range of skincare products, hyaluronic acid has a larger molecular weight and can hold more water. It is commonly used in deep hydration and anti-aging skincare products. Depending on your needs, you can choose one or the other, or use them together for enhanced effects. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any skincare regimen.
Why every dermatologist love glycerin?
Dermatologists love glycerin because of its ability to moisturize and hydrate the skin effectively. It helps to maintain a healthy skin barrier and can be used by individuals with all skin types, including sensitive skin. Glycerin also helps to soothe skin irritation and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, glycerin is a safe and gentle compound that can be used as part of daily skincare routines with minimal side effects, making it a popular choice among dermatologists.
Can I use glycerin on my face every day?
Yes, you can use glycerin on your face every day. It is safe for regular use and can be incorporated into your skincare routine to keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. Glycerin helps to form a protective barrier on the skin, preventing water loss and retaining moisture. Additionally, it can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, making it an effective anti-aging solution. However, it is best to consult with your healthcare professional before starting any skincare regimen.
What does a glycerin suppository do?
A glycerin suppository is a type of laxative that is inserted into the rectum to stimulate bowel movements. It helps to relieve constipation by drawing water into the intestines and softening the stool. Glycerin suppositories can be used to treat both occasional and chronic constipation. They are generally safe when used as directed, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using glycerin suppositories. Additionally, follow the instructions on the packaging carefully for the best results.
How long does it take to poop after a glycerin suppository?
The effects of a glycerin suppository can vary from person to person. It usually takes around 15 to 60 minutes for a bowel movement to occur after using a glycerin suppository. In some cases, it can take up to two hours. If you have been using a glycerin suppository regularly and are not achieving the desired results, consult with your healthcare professional for further advice.
Do glycerin suppositories break up hard stool?
Glycerin suppositories can help soften hard stool by drawing water into the intestines. However, if you are experiencing persistent constipation or have concerns about your bowel movements, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide advice on the best treatment option for your individual needs. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as increasing dietary fiber and water intake may help to improve your digestive health.
