Spring is upon us, which means we're slowly clearing out the heavy moisturizers and thick oils from our medicine cabinets that have helped us through the harsh winter that wreaked havoc on our skin. As we transition to a warm-weather skin-care routine, our main goal is to find humectants that'll deliver a surge of water to the skin and light moisturizers that'll lock in that hydration. One of the humectants we've been stocking up on is glycerin, also known as glycerol. Glycerol is exceptional at drawing moisture into the skin from the outside world, as well as increasing skin elasticity, assisting in barrier repair, and even accelerating the wound-healing process. Since glycerin is a humectant, we recommend pairing the ingredient with a moisturizer full of occlusives to lock hydration in for a supple, glass-like effect. Intrigued by the benefits of this glorious ingredient? Here are eight of our favorite glycerin serums we're adding to our medicine cabinets.
Alo Radiance Serum
If you're in the market for a serum that does it all, consider purchasing this product for your spring collection. Glycerin deeply hydrates the skin along with hyaluronic acid, whereas vitamin C–rich amla berry protects the skin against environmental stressors. We love that this serum instantly soaks into the skin for an immediate plumping effect.
Volition Snow Mushroom Water Serum
Mushrooms are all the rage right now, and rightfully so. This serum contains snow mushroom, which holds about 500 times its weight in water. This, along with glycerin and watermelon extract, will have your skin hydrated and ready for the long day of Zoom meetings ahead.
Tatcha The Dewy Serum Resurfacing and Plumping Treatment
These days we're looking for more hydration, but we cannot forget to exfoliate the skin, as well. Lactic acid in this serum works to slough off dead skin cells from the surface, allowing for glycerin and hyaluronic acid to penetrate deeply into the layers of the skin. The added squalane locks moisture into the skin, ensuring a glow that lasts all day.
Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster
Consider this serum if you are simultaneously battling loss of hydration and fine lines and wrinkles. This serum contains peptides, which are the building blocks of the skin that promote both collagen and elastin production. As peptides work to smooth skin, glycerin hydrates the skin, and licorice reduces the appearance of inflammation in the skin.
iS Clinical Pro-heal Serum Advance Plus
Vitamin C is a superb ingredient for reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and fighting off environmental stressors—but it *can* be too intense for those with sensitive skin. If you have rosacea or contact dermatitis, consider this time-release vitamin C serum as your new protection from pollution and acne scars. While vitamin C works to even out your skin’s tone, glycerin works to hydrate the skin.
PCA Skin Rejuvenating Serum
If you are looking for a product that has a multi-step routine in one bottle, consider giving this serum a spin. This formula contains both antioxidants and niacinamide that work to brighten pigmentation and even skin tone, while glycerin works overtime to deliver a surge of water to rehydrated skin. Finish your routine off with your favorite moisturizer and SPF, and you are good to go.
Dr. Loretta Intense Replenishing Serum
This serum is great for those of you who, despite the warmer temperatures approaching, are still battling dry skin. The Intense Replenishing Serum contains glyceryl linoleate, which is a monoester of glycerin and linoleic acid. This formula works to hydrate the skin deeply with glycerin, while the omega-rich linoleic acid traps moisture into skin for a smooth and supple effect.
SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum
If you are battling post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, you’ll want to add this serum to your cart. This product contains tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and a marine extract blend that all work synergistically to whisk away any signs of acne scars or sun spots, revealing an even, glowing texture underneath. Glycerin hydrates the skin, while grape flower cell extract protects it from environmental stressors.