Vegetable Glycerol 99,5% USP/BP, 1000 ml

Glycerin 99.5% is a vegetable glycerol produced by processing vegetable oils (most often rapeseed oil) – during production, glycerol is released from triglycerides, which is then purified and distilled to high purity.
In cosmetic formulations it is among the most commonly used humectants (moisturizing substances): it binds water and helps maintain hydration in the skin and hair, while also improving the sensorial profile and processability of many products.
Thanks to its good solubility in water, it is also suitable as an alcohol-free extraction component (glycerite) for maceration of selected herbs, where it is used as an alternative to alcohol.

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Key benefits

• Humectant – helps bind water and reduce the feeling of skin dryness.
• Improves texture – contributes to smoother spreading, a more “full” feel and better moisture stability in the product.
• Skin barrier support – in combination with emollients and occlusives it helps reduce transepidermal water loss (indirect action).
• Compatible with common raw materials – works well in both moisturizing and cleansing products.
• Suitable for both “leave-on” and “rinse-off” products – creams/serums as well as shampoos/shower gels.

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Suitable for products such as

• Creams, body lotions, butters (moisturizing and protective formulations).
• Facial serums and gels (water-based and gel bases).
• Toners, hydrosol sprays (to increase the moisturizing effect and slip).
• Shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, liquid soaps (to reduce the drying feel).
• Soaps (in reasonable amounts – for a softer feel on the skin).
• Glycerites – alcohol-free herbal extracts (depending on the suitability of the plant and preservation).

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Use in formulation

• Soluble in: water and aqueous solutions; miscible with most hydrophilic components (e.g. panthenol, niacinamide, sorbitol, propanediol).
• Compatible with: O/W and W/O emulsions (as part of the water phase), gels and surfactant systems.
• Dosage (indicative): most often 1–5% in leave-on products; in rinse-off products often 1–3% (higher levels may increase tackiness and, in a dry environment, paradoxically worsen comfort in the absence of emollients/occlusives).
• Sensory tip: tackiness is reduced by combining with propanediol, butylene glycol, betaine or suitable emollients; at higher usage levels, polymer thickening (e.g. gel systems) also helps.
• It is recommended to add it during the cooling phase (at a temperature below 40 °C).

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Safety and storage

• Intended for cosmetic use; avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
• Follow normal hygiene practices when working; use clean tools to avoid introducing contamination.
• Store the raw material in a tightly closed container, protect from moisture and contamination, away from direct sunlight.
• If irritation occurs, discontinue use and adjust the formulation or dosage.

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Physical properties

• Viscous, clear liquid with a slightly sweet taste (a typical property of glycerol).
• Hygroscopic – binds water and therefore, when stored open, can absorb moisture from the air.
• Fully water-soluble – suitable for the water phase and aqueous gels.

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FAQ

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If you want to learn more about the differences between humectants and softening agents and how to combine them correctly, read our article Zvlhčovadlá a zmäkčovadlá – rozdiely a použitie.
Also have a look at other moisturizing ingredients offered by Handymade.sk.