Glycerin for Hair: What you should know

Have you ever read the label of a hair care product and felt dumbfounded by the long list of foreign ingredient names? If you answered yes, then you’re not alone. 

It’s overwhelming to look at, and heck, we still don’t know what every ingredient is on some products. However, everyone has to start somewhere, and today we’re going to discuss one of the most popular beauty product ingredients, glycerin. So let’s chat all things like if it’s natural, what it does and how this could benefit you!

What is glycerin?

Glycerin, also known as glycerol or glycerine, is a clear, syrupy liquid with no odour. You may have seen it on the label of a few of your favourite beauty products, and that is because it’s one of the most popular ingredients in cosmetic, skincare and hair products.   

Not only is glycerin popular, but it’s also non-toxic, has a long history of safe use and is rated an A on the Environmental Working Group (EWG) scale.   

Is glycerin natural?

It sure blooming can be. It all stems from the way it was made and where it comes from.
Glycerin can come from both natural or synthetic sources.
Natural glycerin: derived from vegetable fats found in carrier oils like our vegan friend soybean and coconut.
Synthetic glycerin:  involves a chemical process consisting of other friends like petroleum, propylene, and chlorine.
NB: over here at Wispy, all of our products contain natural glycerin. We’re pretty stoked about that too!

What does glycerin do?

Glycerin is a humectant, a moisturising agent that draws in moisture from the air and hydrates the stratum corneum, the top layer of skin. 

When it comes to hair, glycerin serves the dual purpose of nourishing and moisturising the hair and scalp. In addition to this, its moisturising abilities reduce frizz, add natural volume and strengthen hair.   

If you suffer from an itchy scalp, this ingredient will help relieve the feeling. Glycerin contains anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant properties, which help repair the skin barrier and soothe inflammation.  

What are the benefits of glycerin?

You might be able to tell that we are big fans of glycerin, and that’s because it works wonders on hair and skin. There are many benefits to using it, but to not bore you, we have selected our top 6: 

1. It moisturises hair 
2. Tames frizz
3. Relieves itchy scalps
4. Reduces dandruff
5. Prevents hair breakage
6. Promotes hair growth