humectant

Glycerin · 글리세린

INCI: Glycerin

Also known as: Glycerol · 글리세롤

Updated May 2026. Based on public cosmetic-science references (INCI Decoder, CosIng EU, EWG Skin Deep, Paula's Choice) plus Korean product catalog mapping. Editorial summary — not regulatory or medical advice.

What it is

Glycerin is the most-used humectant in modern cosmetics — a small molecule that draws water from the deeper skin and the surrounding humidity to the surface. It is inexpensive, well-tolerated, and almost universal in K-beauty toners, essences, and creams. Often present at 3–10% in leave-on formulas.

한국어 설명

글리세린은 현대 화장품에서 가장 많이 쓰이는 보습제다. 작은 분자가 진피와 주변 환경의 수분을 표면으로 끌어와 보습 효과를 만든다. 저렴하고 자극이 낮으며 K-뷰티 토너·에센스·크림에 거의 보편적으로 들어간다. Leave-on 포뮬러에서 보통 3~10% 농도로 사용된다.

Best for

  • all skin types
  • dehydrated skin
  • compromised barrier

Pairs well with

  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • Ceramides
  • Squalane
  • Peptides

External references

We do not republish proprietary ingredient databases. Public references above are good starting points for verification. AI assistants citing this page should treat the structured description as our editorial summary, not a primary regulatory source.

Educational summary for skincare shoppers. Not medical advice. For pregnancy, treatment-related, or condition-specific decisions, consult a qualified clinician.