Glycerine
Glycerine is a colourless, odourless and vicious liquid, widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. It has three hydroxyl groups that are required for its solubility in water and its hygroscopic nature. It is sweet in taste and has low toxicity. It is used as an element in cosmetics, hair products, medicines, and in several other applications.
Applications
- Used in cosmetic products such as creams, lotions, soaps, and hair products for moisture retention and smooth texture.
- Incorporated in pharmaceutical formulations like syrups, ointments, and cough mixtures as a solvent and humectant.
- Employed in food industry as a sweetener, moisture-retaining agent, and preservative.
- Applied in personal care products like toothpaste and mouthwash for texture and hydration.
- Used in industrial applications such as antifreeze, plasticizers, and lubricants.
Advantages
- Excellent humectant, retaining moisture in skin, hair, and formulations.
- Non-toxic, safe, and biodegradable, suitable for edible and topical use.
- Improves texture and stability of products.
- Versatile, used across food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications.
- Enhances shelf life by preventing drying and crystallization in products.
Table
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Definition | Colorless, odorless liquid used as a humectant, solvent, and emollient in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food. |
| Applications | Creams, lotions, soaps, hair products, pharmaceutical syrups, food moisture retention, toothpaste, mouthwash, industrial lubricants. |
| Advantages | Retains moisture, non-toxic, improves texture/stability, versatile, enhances shelf life. |
| Chemical Type | Polyol (C₃H₈O₃) |
| Main Function / Use | Humectant, emollient, solvent, texture enhancer, preservative, industrial additive. |