Glycerine

Glycerine, also known as glycerol, is a trihydric alcohol containing three hydroxyl groups. It is a colourless to nearly colourless, viscous and hygroscopic liquid that is highly compatible with water and alcohol. USP

For cosmetic applications, glycerine is particularly valued for its ability to attract and retain moisture. It is therefore widely incorporated into skin-care, hair-care, cleansing and personal-care formulations. It can also function as a solvent, viscosity-modifying ingredient and conditioning agent. Cosmetics Info

Glycerine can be produced from vegetable oils/fats through hydrolysis, saponification or transesterification, followed by purification and refining. It may also be manufactured synthetically. The source and manufacturing route should be specified on the supplier's documentation where claims such as vegetable-derived, palm-free, RSPO, GMO-free or synthetic are important.