Evidence supporting the use of: Glycerol polymers
For the health condition: Skin Care (general)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Glycerol polymers, often referred to as poly(glycerol) or polyglycerol, have found increasing use in skin care formulations due to their excellent humectant and emollient properties. Scientifically, these polymers are known to effectively retain water in the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin), thereby improving skin hydration and barrier function. Multiple in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that glycerol and its polymerized forms enhance skin moisture, reduce transepidermal water loss, and support the skin's natural repair mechanisms. Furthermore, polyglycerol esters are often used as safe, non-irritating emulsifiers and stabilizers in creams and lotions. While the majority of evidence pertains to monomeric glycerol, data on glycerol polymers suggest similar, if not superior, hydrating and protective effects. Regulatory agencies generally regard these compounds as safe for topical use. Though most clinical studies have focused on basic skin hydration rather than specific dermatologic conditions, the scientific rationale for their inclusion in skin care products is robust. Overall, glycerol polymers are supported by a moderate to strong body of scientific evidence for general skin care, particularly for improving moisture retention and supporting the skin barrier.
Other ingredients used for Skin Care (general)
aloe veraanthocyanins
apple
apricot
astaxanthin
beeswax
beet
beta-carotene
black currant
radish
sesame
bovine gelatin
catalase
colostrum
cryptoxanthin
cucumber
d-alpha tocopherol
dog rose
heartwood
hyaluronic acid
l-cysteine
l-glutathione
l-histidine
linoleic acid (LA)
lovage
lychee
magnesium
mango
mixed carotenoids
oat
omega-3 fatty acids
pumpkin
redcurrant
silicon
keratin
spinach
starch
tomato
almond fruit
Urolithin A
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
watercress
watermelon
zinc
sarsaparilla
red clover
chickweed
oryza
root tuber
birch
dulse leaf
camphor oil
goji berry
amaranth
sea salt
3,3'-dihydroxy-B-carotene-4,4'-dione
Alpha-terpineol
Azelaic acid
Arbutin
Avocado
Anserina
Ascophyllum nodosum
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Asam gelugor
Allantoin
anthocyanidins
Algal protein
Argan nut oil
Abalone
Behenic Acid
Biopeptide
Black spruce
beta-zeacarotene
Brassica
Bisabolene
Butternut
Borage
Bottle gourd
Bird's nest
California chia
Chervil
Carnosine
Candelilla wax
Cocoa Butter
Cereal grass
Citral
Castile Soap
Copaiba Oil
Currant
Dunaliella salina
David's Milkberry
Dulse
Egg
Emu Oil
Himalayan Salt
Oak
Orchid
Rose
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Silk protein
Other health conditions supported by Glycerol polymers
AbrasionsBurns and Scalds
Constipation (adults)
Dehydration
Exercise
Gastritis
Injuries
Skin Care (general)
Surgery (healing from)
Wounds and Sores