Vegetable glycerin is a trihydric sugar alcohol. Outwardly, it looks like a thick, odorless, colorless liquid. Possesses properties of hygroscopicity, it is well dissolved in water, it is not toxic. The substance is obtained by chemical synthesis of plant or animal raw materials. In addition, the product is formed during the production of biodiesel fuel and during the preparation of soap. In the article, we will consider vegetable glycerin, its properties and effects on the human body.
Glycerin in the cosmetics industry
This substance is available in today's market. You can buy glycerin in almost any pharmacy for ridiculous money. Trihydric alcohol has become especially popular in cosmetology. Due to its hygroscopic properties, it is widely used to moisturize the skin. It has long been known that the aging process develops due to the loss of moisture by cells. Compensating for its deficiency, you can achieve a noticeable rejuvenation of the skin. In addition, vegetable glycerin has a softening effect, and also promotes the healing of damaged areas of the epidermis and its restoration.
How exactly does this chemical compound work? It attracts water molecules from the environment. Exactlytherefore, the use of glycerin must be correct and reasonable: in cases where there is nowhere to attract moisture, the skin will serve as its source. Taking water molecules from the dermis, trihydric alcohol will act in reverse. To prevent this from happening, you should follow the instructions for use.
The “right” glycerin for skin
Directing the action of sugar alcohol for the benefit of the epidermis and dermis is not so difficult. In cosmetics (lotions, creams, soaps), the content of glycerin is quite low (5–7%), since the compound must be diluted with water and other components. An effective formula for sugar alcohol has been found to be emulsified with water. If vegetable glycerin is dissolved in water, then its molecules will begin to attract water molecules. This phase of the substance contributes to high-quality and more natural skin hydration. Otherwise, glycerin will not only do no good, but also harm.
When using the substance at home, you should remember this. Masks should be made with glycerin diluted with water. Its use in its pure form can only be justified with a sufficient level of humidity in the room (45% or more).
Useful properties of glycerin in cosmetology
This compound has been successfully used in the treatment of many dermatological diseases as an emollient component. Glycerin promotes faster penetration of the active substances of the preparations into the dermis. That is why it is prescribed in complex therapy or included incomposition of many drugs. A protective film forms on the surface of moistened skin, which does not allow bacteria, viruses or dust particles to enter the epidermis. In addition, glycerin has the following benefits:
- exhibits stabilizer properties in homemade lotions, masks;
- promotes skin renewal and rejuvenation;
- is an activator of metabolic processes;
- removes toxins, excess sebum and promotes skin cleansing.
Glycerin is successfully used for deep restoration of damaged areas of the epidermis. For example, with cracks on the elbows, heels, knees. Based on this sugar alcohol, shampoos are made for weakened and dehydrated hair.
The negative effects of glycerin on the skin
Any chemical substance can adversely affect human he alth. Vegetable glycerin causes harm only when it is used incorrectly. The main disadvantages of this simple cosmetic include:
- "aggressiveness" with incorrect dosage and prolonged use;
- in its pure form dries out the skin, leads to loss of moisture;
- may affect sensitive and inflamed skin;
- washes melanin out of the epidermis.
It is also worth knowing that it should not be mixed with silicone, as the result is a toxic and dangerous substance.
Vegetable glycerin in a pharmacy is inexpensive, and thereforebecomes a favorite remedy for women in pursuit of beautiful skin. When using it, care should be taken that the substance is diluted with water. Do an allergy test before applying to large areas.
Vegetable glycerin: harm and benefit in food
The properties of sugar alcohol were appreciated not only by cosmetologists, but by food industry technologists. Glycerol, better known as E422 additive, is used as a stabilizer, sweetener or thickener. It can be found in almost all pastries, cakes or sweets. For example, E422 is included in a significant amount in the Bounty bar to create a soft texture. They can also boast of "Bird's Milk" or products such as marmalade, toffee, marshmallows or marshmallows. In them, E422 acts as a moisture-retaining component. It is also found in alcoholic beverages for the softness of their structure, in pastries to increase its shelf life, in dairy products, jams and preserves.
Of course, most of the substances labeled "E" in one way or another dangerous to human he alth. The same cannot be said for glycerin. It is non-toxic and does not have mutagenic, carcinogenic or other harmful properties. However, it is not recommended to use it in large quantities. It can lead to dehydration and cause circulatory and kidney dysfunction.
Glycerin in other fields
In addition to being used in cosmetology and the food industry, glycerol is actively used in pharmacology. Based on it, they issuelaxatives in the form of suppositories. They also help heal anal fissures. Glycerin solution is used to reduce intracranial and ocular pressure and reduce cerebral edema.
With the development of electronic cigarettes, sugar alcohol has become the main ingredient in e-liquids. It is worth noting that vegetable glycerin practically does not harm the body. The main thing is to observe the dosage and not mix it with other chemical compounds.
Glycerin is an affordable remedy for the treatment of dermatological and some other diseases. It is a common ingredient in cosmetics and skin and hair care products. It is often found in food as a food additive E422, but does not affect human he alth.
