It is a thick and sticky nontoxic liquid that has no color or odor.

Glycerin has many uses in cosmetics, drugs, and household products.

It is used as a moisturizer, a preservative, and a food sweetener.

Person reading a product label in a store

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It has value in items that include lotions, soap, and food.

It is also used in diverse products, including antifreeze, cement, textiles, and waxes.

This article describes the makeup and many uses of glycerin.

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Glycerin Uses: What’s It Made Of?

This compound is acarbohydratecalled a sugar alcohol, or polyol.

Glycerin liquid occurs naturally from the fermentation of certain foods like honey, vinegar, and beer.

The primary benefit of using glycerin on dry skin is its ability to prevent water from evaporating.

It can keep your skin hydrated longer than other moisturizing products.

Research indicates that glycerin has strong moisturizing factors and is a powerful and effective humectant.

Foods and Beverages

Glycerin has multiple uses in foods.

Natural and synthetic glycerin have the same chemical composition.

When Would Glycerin Cause Side Effects?

Glycerin is readily available for purchase in drugstores and online.

Before using any new product on your face, you may wish to perform patch test.

Before using, read the package instructions.

You may wish to dilute the glycerin with tap water to thin it.

Summary

Glycerin is a compound liquid widely used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries.

Glycerin acts to retain moisture, to sweeten foods without adding sugar, and to preserve food.

It also serves as a binding agent, laxative, and antifreeze.

This nontoxic compound rarely causes problems when consumed in foods or used on your skin.

While this substance is commonly used, excess use can lead to adverse effects.

Consult your healthcare provider if you notice redness, itching, or other skin problems when using this product.

A reaction to overconsumption of glycerin orally may cause nausea and stomach problems.

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