Glycerin
The workhorse humectant — helps pull and hold water in skin, in almost every moisturizer.
What it is
Glycerin is one of the most-used and best-studied humectants in all of skincare. It draws water into the outer skin and helps hold it there. It is cheap, effective, and sits near the top of countless ingredient lists for good reason.
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Very few downsides — it is about as safe as skincare ingredients get. In pure or very high concentrations in dry air it can feel tacky, which is why it is almost always balanced with other ingredients in a formula.
Is glycerin good for oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes. It is lightweight, non-greasy hydration, so it suits oily skin that is also dehydrated, and it does not clog pores at normal use levels.
Glycerin vs hyaluronic acid — which is better?
Both are humectants and they work well together. Glycerin is smaller, cheaper, and extremely reliable; hyaluronic acid gives a plumping feel. Most good moisturizers use both.
Ingredients help the look and feel of skin; they do not treat medical conditions. No brand paid to be here. Skincare information, not medical advice — for a persistent concern, see a board-certified dermatologist.