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.
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.