Glycerin and dimethicone are both highly effective skincare ingredients, each playing a distinct role in hydration, skin protection and sensorial performance. While both help support the skin barrier, they work in different ways to achieve their benefits.
What Is Glycerin?
Glycerin, or glycerol, is a humectant known for its ability to attract and retain water within the skin. Its small molecular weight allows it to permeate the stratum corneum, drawing moisture through Aquaporin-3 channels to improve hydration beneath the skin’s surface. This action helps plump and soothe dry or dehydrated skin, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and supporting overall skin barrier function.
At higher concentrations, glycerin is classified as an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in over-the-counter (OTC) skin protectants. It provides temporary relief for chafed, cracked, or dry skin while preventing further moisture loss in harsh environmental conditions.
What Type Of Skin Is Glycerin Best For?
Glycerin works for all skin types, especially dehydrated and sensitive skin. Its hydrating properties help relieve dryness, boost elasticity, and smooth skin texture. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for daily use and an excellent partner for other moisturizing ingredients to maximize results.
What Is Dimethicone?
Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer widely used as an emollient and occlusive in skincare. Unlike glycerin, which attracts water to the skin, dimethicone forms a breathable barrier on the skin’s surface, locking in existing moisture and shielding against external irritants. This protective action prevents TEWL while enhancing the application and spreadability of skincare products.
Dimethicone’s molecular structure provides unique sensory properties, creating a silky, smooth finish that is non-greasy and lightweight. Its barrier-forming capabilities make it particularly effective in protecting and soothing compromised skin.
What Type Of Skin Is Dimethicone Best For?
Dimethicone is highly versatile and beneficial for dry, sensitive, and aging skin. Its ability to create a protective film without clogging pores makes it suitable for acne-prone skin as well. By smoothing the skin’s surface, dimethicone also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Is Glycerin or Dimethicone a Better Skin Protectant?
Both glycerin and dimethicone play key roles in supporting the skin barrier, but they work in distinct ways:
- Glycerin hydrates the skin from within, replenishing moisture and improving barrier function at subdermal levels. Its humectant properties make it effective in combating dehydration and supporting elasticity.
- Dimethicone forms a protective shield on the surface, locking in moisture while preventing irritation from environmental aggressors. It provides immediate relief and long-lasting comfort in harsh or dry conditions.
Glycerin is great for deep hydration and repair, while dimethicone works well to lock in moisture and provide external protection.
Can Glycerin and Dimethicone Be Used Together?
Yes, glycerin and dimethicone can be used together, as they complement each other effectively. Glycerin draws water into the skin, while dimethicone locks it in, providing a dual-action solution for hydration and barrier protection. This combination is especially helpful for combating dryness, soothing sensitivity, and supporting compromised skin barriers.
DISCLAIMER: All skin care articles are intended to help educate on specific ingredients and skin care topics. Our articles are written to be informative and informational. Any reference to a specific patient experience is not a medical suggestion for treatment. Please note that any Prequel products with referenced ingredients are formulated for Cosmetic Use Only and NOT intended as replacements for physician advice and/or pharmaceutical product recommendations.
