There’s a battle going on that we need to discuss: glycerin vs hyaluronic acid. Previously when talking about skin care, there were a few basic principles we we could always count on: removing your makeup at night will help to avoid breakouts, applying SPF every day is a non-negotiable, and of course, hyaluronic acid is the gold standard for hydrating dry skin. Or is it…?
In a recent Instagram, dermatologist Dr. Natasha Cook shared her belief that glycerin, the lesser-known and far more affordable humectant, deserves hyaluronic acid’s crown. Intrigued? So were we…
Glycerin vs hyaluronic acid
According to Dr. Cook, hyaluronic acid’s rise to popularity began after being used in fillers, touted for its “fabulous long-term effects in elevating, lifting, and hydrating.” However, when the ingredient is incorporated topically, she’s not so convinced: “it doesn’t stand the test of time.”
When used in skin care, Dr. Cook notes that the hydrator is “broken down really quickly” and “doesn’t moisture bind as effectively as old school ingredients like glycerin and shea butter,” she says.
What is glycerin and what are its benefits?
Like hyaluronic acid, glycerin is also a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains water to the skin. The ultra-conditioning ingredient works to boost hydration, reduce water loss and as a result, minimise irritation triggered by dryness.
So, why is hyaluronic acid the bell of the ball? And what does it have that glycerin doesn’t? Well, if you’re asking The New York Times the answer is: “a better publicist”.
So, should we be ditching hyaluronic acid?
No. If you’re a hyaluronic acid purist, don’t stress. According to Rodan + Fields, there’s still a place for both ingredients in our routine. “Go for glycerin [when you’re] looking to add moisture, bounce and balance.” And when you’re wanting to “lock in [any existing] hydration,” that’s when you should reach for the hyaluronic acid.
In summary? Hyaluronic acid will maintain hydration, while glycerin will actually improve it. Very interesting indeed…
Glycerin skin care products we recommend…
CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion PM
“My face soaked up all the moisturizing lotion and has left my skin feeling supple and soft once applied and once I wake up in the morning. It has also alleviated my redness especially on my cheeks.” – miramarmari
$22.99, Chemist Warehouse
Want to know more? Read CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion PM reviews here…
Kenkay® Sorbolene Cream with 10% Vegetable Glycerin
“I like it best as a moisturiser where it applies easily, isn’t sticky and works to keep skin soft and moisturised. It is also incredibly economical in price. I love this product and will continue to buy it. I thoroughly recommend it!” – Frenchy
$5.99, Amcal
Want to know more? Read Kenkay® Sorbolene Cream with 10% Vegetable Glycerin reviews here…
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo Cleanser
“It does a great job at removing the dirt and oil from my pores whilst leaving my skin feeling soft, hydrated and refreshed after use! I bring this product with me everywhere and don’t see myself changing my cleanser any time soon. Such a great product!” – Kate Giddy
$27.95, Adore Beauty
Want to know more? Read La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo Cleanser reviews here…
CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
“This gel has a light, hydrating texture that melts into the skin to leave it feeling smooth and plump, but definitely not greasy. I find a bottle lasts me ages as you don’t need to apply a lot to get instant hydration and smooth skin.” – Dramsay82
$50, Adore Beauty
Want to know more? Want to know more? Read CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel reviews here…
Rodan + Fields Active Hydration Serum
“I am very happy with the hydrated skin – I am 57 and this has been a game changer for me during the day – I am left with that after a yoga session dewy skin.” – Audrey22
$154, Rodan + Fields
Want to know more? Want to know more? Read Rodan + Fields Active Hydration Serum reviews here…
Main image credit: @laraworthington
Do you use any glycerin skin care products in your routine? If so, which ones do you love?
Interesting article. I do like La Roche Posay’s toleriane range
Huge fan of LRP. Toleriane Dermo Cleanser!
I use the CV PM lotion which is good used over a serum – otherwise it’s too light. I also use the Kenkay Sorbolene which feels nice but I’m not keen on using paraffin on my skin.
I could be wrong but the US CeraVe PM lotion seems to be quite different to the Australian version. I’ll have to take a peek at the ingredients side by side.
Wow, that’s interesting – common old glycerin, eh?
Glycerin is a fabulous humectant as are lactic acid, polyglutamic acid and urea. Urea is fantastic for soothing dry skin.
That’s interesting, it looks like old glycerine is winning.
Yeh interesting – I do find that glycerin is effective on my skin.
Very good article -I used to use glycerin but thought it was one of the old products that had been improved on -who would have known
Absolutely love glycerin. Many raw material extracts have a glycerin base.
I’m actually not too sure if I’m using anything that contains Glycerin
Most skincare contains it!
Very interesting!
I don’t know if any of my skincare contains glycerin although i use a few from La Roche Posay, I have never heard good things about it before.
Informative! Thanks for that
I love using sorbolene with glycerin. It absorbs well and keeps my skin hydrated for many hours.
Very interesting!
I agree!
Glycerin is everything. So hard to avoid. Now also HA is in almost everything.
CAn’t edit. Meant to say: glycerin is IN everything
Thanks BH for such an informative Article on Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid, have heard from L’Oreal that there Hyaluronic Acid Serum will help get rid of dark circles under your eyes. Certainly will be trying it out in the next month to see if it actually works.
Agree a very informative article.
Interesting. I will have to try some of the glycerin containing products.
I have a tube of the Kenkay Sorbolene so I’ll crack it open and see how it performs.
Neither for me. There are other ingredients.
Interesting article.
Lots of lovely serums to choose from
It would have been good to have the hyaluronic comparison products here
I actually just bought a big bottle of glycerin. Great article
Interesting. Neither of these are ingredients I prioritise; maybe I should consider them.
Glycerin has been in skincare products for ages. It gives products a little bit of slip and slight tackiness and my skin loves it. It’s found in many moisturisers, serums, hydrating toners. I even have a bottle of 100% vegetable glycerin to use in my DIY skin care/body care/hair care.
Something to think of. Haven’t tried Glyserine.
I found this article quite interesting.
I always have a bottle of glycerin as it plays an essential part in my skincare routine.
Very interesting will try using the Cera Ve one and see how it goes
I love Sorbolene!
Polyglutamic Acid derived from natto is supposed to be a superior humectant.
Very informative article, thank you Beauty Heaven team!
Polyglutamic Acid derived from natto is supposed to be super hy dra ting.
Great article. I think both products are effective.
Interesting I don’t use any Glycerine skin care products but i will keep an eye out for it!
I like my skin care with hyaluronic acid my skin feels hydrated and healthy
I’ll take some of the Cera Ve.
I find humectants don’t work well in dry climates where there isn’t moisture in the air to attract.