Glycerin: harmful and beneficial

Glycerin is a three-atom sugar alcohol. Outwardly it looks like a thick, colorless, odorless liquid. It has hygroscopicity properties, it readily dissolves in water, is non-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 and when cooking soap. In the article, let us consider glycerol, its properties and effects on the human body.

Glycerin in the cosmetic industry

This substance is available in the modern market. You can buy glycerin at almost any pharmacy for ridiculous money. Triatomic alcohol has become especially popular in cosmetology. Due to hygroscopic properties it is widely used for moisturizing the skin. It has long been known that aging processes develop as a result of the loss of moisture by cells. By compensating for her deficiency, you can achieve significant 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 does this chemical compound work? It attracts molecules of water from the environment. That is why the use of glycerin should be correct and reasonable: in cases where there is no attraction of moisture from anywhere, its source will be the skin. Taking the water molecules from the dermis, the triatomic alcohol will act on the contrary. To avoid this, follow the instructions for use.

The "right" glycerin for the skin

Direct the effect of sugar alcohol for the benefit of the epidermis and dermis is not so difficult. In cosmetic products (lotions, creams, soaps) the glycerin content is rather low (5-7%), since the connection must be diluted with water and other components. As it was found out, the effective formula of a sugar alcohol consists in manufacturing of an emulsion with water. If glycerin is dissolved in water, its molecules will begin to attract water molecules. This phase of the substance contributes to a qualitative and more natural moistening of the skin. Otherwise, glycerin will not only not be of use, but it will also hurt.

Using the substance at home, you should remember this. Make masks with diluted glycerine water. Its use in pure form can be justified only at a sufficient humidity level of the room (45% or more).

Useful properties of glycerol in cosmetology

This compound is successfully used in the treatment of many dermatological diseases as an emollient component. Glycerin promotes faster penetration of active substances in dermis. That is why it is prescribed in complex therapy or included in the composition of many drugs. A protective film forms on the surface of the moistened skin, which prevents bacteria, viruses or dust particles from getting into the epidermis. In addition, glycerin has the following advantages:

• Exhibits properties of the stabilizer in self-made lotions, masks;
• Promotes renewal and skin rejuvenation;
• Is an activator of metabolic processes;
• Removes toxins, excess sebum and helps to cleanse the skin.

Glycerin is successfully used for deep restoration of damaged parts of the epidermis. For example, with cracks on elbows, heels, knees. Based on this sugar alcohol, shampoos are made for weakened and dehydrated hair.

Negative effects of glycerol on the skin

Any chemical can adversely affect the state of human health. Vegetable glycerin harms only when it is misused. The main disadvantages of this simple cosmetic are:

• "Aggressiveness" with incorrect dosage and prolonged use;
• In a pure form, overdrying the skin, leads to loss of moisture;
• May adversely affect sensitive and inflamed skin;
• Washes melanin from the epidermis.

It is also necessary to know that it can not be mixed with silicone, because as a result a toxic and dangerous substance is formed.

Vegetable glycerine in a pharmacy is inexpensive, and therefore becomes a favorite means of women in pursuit of beautiful skin. When using it, care must be taken to ensure that the substance is diluted with water. Before use on extensive areas, try a test for allergy.

Plant Glycerin: Harm and Benefit in Food

The properties of sugar alcohol were evaluated not only by cosmetologists, but by food industry technologists. Glycerol, better known as E422, is used as a stabilizer, sweetener or thickener. It can be found in almost all cakes, cakes or sweets. For example, E422 in a significant amount is part of the bar "Bounty" to create a soft structure. They can boast of "Bird Milk" or such products as marmalade, iris, marshmallow or pastille. In them, E422 acts as a water-retaining component. It also occurs in alcoholic beverages for the softness of their structure, in baking to increase its shelf life, in dairy products, jams and jams.

Of course, most substances labeled "E" are dangerous to human health in one way or another. This can not be said about glycerin. It is non-toxic and does not have mutagenic, carcinogenic or other harmful properties. And yet it is not recommended to use it in large quantities. It can lead to dehydration and become a cause of impaired blood circulation and kidney function.

Glycerin in other spheres

In addition to its application in cosmetology and the food industry, glycerol is widely used in pharmacology. On its basis release laxatives in the form of candles. They also help to cure the cracks in the anus. A solution of glycerol is used to reduce intracranial and ocular pressure and to reduce the edema of the brain.

With the development of electronic cigarettes, sugar alcohol has become a major component in smoking liquids. It is worth noting that plant glycerine harms the body practically not. The main thing is to observe the dosage and not mix it with other chemical compounds.

Glycerin is an available remedy for the treatment of dermatological and some other diseases. It is a common component of cosmetic and caring products for skin and hair. It is often found in foods as a food supplement E422, but does not affect human health.