INCI name

Glycerin

Also listed as: Glycerol, Glycerine

Glycerin is a clear, syrupy humectant. It binds water and is used to reduce dryness on the skin or hair. It can be made from vegetable oils, from animal fats, or synthetically from petroleum. The INCI name does not tell you which.

A product that claims to be vegan should say so elsewhere on the pack, or the maker should confirm the source. Vegetable glycerin is widely used.

Glycerin is generally well tolerated. In a very high amount, in dry air, it can feel sticky, and in rare cases it can pull water from the skin if there is little humidity. Most leave-on products use modest levels.

Where it turns up

Moisturisers, cleansers, hair conditioners, toothpastes and soaps.

Sensitivities

Uncommon. Some people dislike the tacky feel at high levels.

Vegan or animal-derived

Only if the maker uses vegetable or synthetic glycerin. Ask if the pack does not say.

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