---
title: Glycerin
entity_type: Ingredient
canonical_url: https://skinknowledgebase.com/ingredients/glycerin
date_modified: 2026-05-11
date_reviewed: 2026-05-11
mcp_eligible: true
evidence_sources:
  - title: Dermatologists' top tips for relieving dry skin
    canonical_citation_url: https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/aad-dry-skin-relief-tips
    original_source_url: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/dermatologists-tips-relieve-dry-skin
    source_type: dermatology_reference
  - title: A new era of moisturizers
    canonical_citation_url: https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/new-era-of-moisturizers
    original_source_url: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33977643/
    source_type: peer_reviewed
product_fact_sources:
  - title: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream — Official Product Page
    canonical_citation_url: https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/official-product-page-cerave-moisturizing-cream
    original_source_url: https://www.cerave.com/skincare/moisturizers/moisturizing-cream
    source_type: official_product_page
---

# Glycerin

## Quick Summary

Glycerin is a common humectant in moisturizers that helps bind water at the outer skin surface so dry-feeling skin can feel softer and more comfortable.

## What It Is

Glycerin, also called glycerol, is widely used in moisturizers because it is compatible with many cream and lotion formats. It is not flashy, but it is one of the most practical ingredients in dry-skin routines.

## Mechanism

Glycerin helps attract and hold water at the surface. In a routine, it pairs well with emollient and occlusive ingredients that make the hydrated feel last longer.

## Related Entities

- [Dermatologists' top tips for relieving dry skin](https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/aad-dry-skin-relief-tips)
- [A new era of moisturizers](https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/new-era-of-moisturizers)
- [CeraVe Moisturizing Cream — Official Product Page](https://skinknowledgebase.com/sources/official-product-page-cerave-moisturizing-cream)
- [Dry Skin](https://skinknowledgebase.com/concerns/dry-skin)
- [CeraVe Moisturizing Cream](https://skinknowledgebase.com/products/cerave-moisturizing-cream)