What benefits can Glycerin offer to our Skin?

Glycerin is a humectant, which means that it has the effect of attracting moisture from the air. It bonds with the water molecules from various environmental sources and holds them in the skin’s surface, leaving it plump and hydrated. Humectants can be great in humid environments, where they can easily pull moisture from the air into the skin.

However, glycerin can also attract moisture from deeper within the skin. If you live in an arid climate, you may want to steer clear of this type of product as it will pull the moisture from the deep layers of the skin to the surface where the moisture will evaporate. This could also happen in other climates during the winter months, when there is low humidity.

Representative image. Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash

When to choose a Glycerin Soap over a Moisturizing Soap

In simple terms, humectants (glycerin) bind water to the skin, whereas moisturizers create a protective barrier that locks in hydration and prevents water loss.

When choosing a soap, it’s essential to determine if your skin is dry or dehydrated. Dehydrated skin will lack water due to diet or temporary environmental factors. It will feel tight and have a dull appearance. Dry skin is a result of less sebum production. The skin does not have enough fatty lipids to retain its protective barrier. It will appear flaky and patchy and often has redness.

Humectants are especially useful for oily or acne-prone skin. They are also great to plump up sagging skin or fine lines and give a boost of hydration. As mentioned before, hydrating products should be used with caution during winter months or if living in arid climates.

Moisturizing soaps are great for all skin types as they help rebuild skin barrier function and prevent dry skin. If the skin is already oily, a moisturizing soap may wind up clogging pores. In this case, you may want to use a humectant soap and then seal the skin with an appropriate moisturizer for your skin type.

Plants are such amazing healers! When putting together your natural medicine cabinet, there are lots of essential oils to include. Some oils work better for some people more than others. Here is an short overview listing some key properties of the essential oils we currently have in stock:

Clove – very strong for cold and flu prevention, also amazing for digestion when included in blends that are massaged into the abdomen…antibacterial, antifungal, immunostimulant…spicy, warm, encourages confidence

Fennel – a licorice scented oil effective in relieving nausea, bloating, indigestion and constipation, also a mild diuretic that has been used for centuries in cooking and for medicinal purposes…antiemetic, antifungal, antioxidant…calms, encourages, decongest the mind

Grapefruit – a pure fresh citrus aroma commonly used for diuretic and astringent properties, also a great deodorizer when used in a diffuser…antiviral, antimicrobial, tonic…uplifting, cheerful, energetic

Lavender – beautiful floral oil excellent for healing skin irritations or infections, also outstanding balancing effect on the nervous system…antispasmodic, antirheumatic, antiviral…calms, soothes, nurtures

Oregano – to be used with caution due to high phenol content, effective against MRSA and a great natural antiseptic…antiviral, antimicrobial, analgesic…stimulating, warm, feeling of well-being

Ocotea – used in traditional medicine by Amazonian tribes for anti-inflammatory properties, its sweet aroma is said to develop a feeling of fullness, has excellent skin cleansing properties…anti-inflammatory, antifungal, skin support…purifying, supporting, relaxing

Tangerine – improves poor circulation in the extermities, effective in skin preparations for stretch marks and cellulitis…antimicrobial, carminative, antiviral…relieves anxiety, tension and anger 

Tea Tree – used for fungal infections best in combination with other antifungal oils, effective against dust mites, head lice, dandruff and other skin infections…antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory…uplifts spirit, builds confidence

*The use of essential oils and statements regarding essential oils have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products and techniques mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Use caution and speak with your doctor prior to use.