Why glycerin used in cosmatic industry?
Glycerine, (COH)3H5, or C303H8, is a 3-carbon alcohol, aka
glycerol. (1-carbon alcohol is methanol, 2-carbon is ethanol). It
is non-volatile and intensely hygroscopic (water-loving), and can
be rinsed off any surface with ordinary water.
It has recently been found to hasten cell maturation and
suppress inflammation.
Here is a partial list of its uses:
Reduces or eliminates any skin disturbance, from psoriasis to
bug bites or burns. Apply the pure Glycerin USP form. Feels oily,
vanishes into the skin in about 10 minutes (signals cells to open
transport channels). Cuts off pain and itching by quieting injured
cells, not a "nerve blocker".
Doubles healing speed, cuts scarring in half.
Carries most materials mixed with it into the skin, especially
water. Mixed with water, an excellent moisturizer. (Principal
component of most commercial preparations.)
Pure form kills all bacteria on contact by instantly drawing the
water out of them.
Eliminates halitosis by killing sulfurous bacteria on back of
tongue if swished and gargled. (Tastes slightly sweet.)
De-congest nasal passages by rubbing a few drops of
glycerine-water mix just inside the nostrils. Takes about 15
minutes to soften blockage and quiet agitated nasal passages,
opening the airway.
A teaspoon or two orally, or commercial glycerine suppositories,
are a mild laxative.
Softens and removes calluses.
Being researched as a cancer cell "quieter", to prevent cells
from proliferating.
Other than the above, some long-distance runners have used it as
a drink for stamina, but not everyone's stomach enjoys such a large
amount all at once.
Helps thicken skin weakened by pregnazone treatments for
rheumatism, Parkinson's, etc.
It is also used in foods and toothpaste as a sweetener and
blending agent. Used to lubricate food handling machinery where
avoiding oil contamination of product is necessary.
It is a major component of numerous expensive soaps.
In impure form, it is produced in huge quantities as a
by-product of biofuel generation, and has been treated mostly as a
waste product and burned or otherwise disposed of. (It burns fairly
well, but not explosively).
Beyond that, not much. So far.