How to Use Glycerine in Beauty Care

Glycerine found in vegetables is a common additive in natural beauty products. It has been used for centuries as cleansers and cosmetics. Since is it naturally low in toxins it is gentle to the skin and rarely produces an allergic reaction. Some common beauty products that use glycerine include:

• Soap. You can spot glycerine soaps by their clear bright color. Often times flowers or leave can be found floating in the soap to add to its beauty. Glycerine is an odorless substance but takes on the scent of perfumes added to it. Glycerine soap is commonly found at health food stores and pharmacies.
• Make-up Remover. Since Glycerine has natural grease cutting properties, it is a perfect natural ingredient for make up remover. It cuts through the make up yet is gentle to the skin.
• Toothpaste. Glycerine is responsible for the sweet taste in toothpaste products.
• Deodorant. As a natural emollient, glycerine produces a soothing effect after shaving.
• Lotion. Dry skin can be hydrated with products that include glycerine as it helps hold moisture next to the skin. It is also used in creams that treat fine lines like crow's feet. It is a great replacement of petroleum products.

Glycerine skin lotions, soaps, body washes, and shampoos can easily be made at home and make a nice gift for others to share. Here is an easy generic recipe for a natural body wash:

• 6 ounces of water (strong herbal tea like Chamomile, Mint or Green Tea can be used instead of plain water)
• 3 ounces of potassium hydroxide
• 8 ounces of non-hydrogenated soybean oil
• 4 ounces of coconut oil
• 4 ounces of sunflower oil
• 1/2 cup of glycerin
• Essential oil in fragrance of your choice
• Oatmeal can be added as a natural exfoliant for a body wash

Combine water and potassium hydroxide, set aside. Add oils together and heat slowly. Stir well, and mix oils thoroughly. Heat oils to about 150 degrees Fahrenheit; add the water/potassium hydroxide mixture. Mix vigorously. When the oils have stopped rising to the top allow the mixture to cool. Allow to set for one week, stir occasionally to prevent oils from separating.

Finally, stir in one half cup of glycerin and the amount of fragrance desired. Add water to dilute the soap to the desired consistency. This soap can be used for liquid hand soap, shampoo or body wash. When you have the desired consistency, pour the mixture into pump bottles and use. Since this is a natural product it will need to be used more quickly than a product made with preservatives.

Using natural products is not only good for our skin; it is also good for our environment. The hydrating effects of Glycerine not only keep moisture next to skin, it also has a soothing effect for after shaving legs or under arms.