Glycerine | Humectant & Fragrance Formulation Ingredient

Product Name

Glycerine

CAS No.: 56-81-5

🟢 Difficulty: Beginner

⏳ Lasting: Very Low / Odorless

🌸 Note: Functional Ingredient

Description

Glycerine, also known as Glycerol, is a clear, colorless, odorless and highly hygroscopic liquid widely used in cosmetic, personal-care and industrial formulations. Unlike aroma chemicals, Glycerine is primarily valued for its functional properties rather than its fragrance character.

It is best known as a humectant, meaning it helps attract and retain moisture. In personal-care products, it can contribute to a smoother skin feel and help maintain moisture in formulations. It is also used as a solvent, viscosity-modifying ingredient and processing aid in a wide range of products.

For fragrance-related applications, Glycerine may be encountered in certain cosmetic, body-care and water-based formulations. However, it should not be considered a conventional perfume fixative or aroma chemical. Its suitability depends on the specific formulation, concentration and intended application.

Odor Profile

• Odorless

• Neutral

• No significant fragrance character

Recommended Formulation Level (Educational guideline only)

• Personal care: commonly used according to formulation requirements

• Water-based formulations: level depends on desired humectancy and skin feel

• Fragrance concentrates: generally not used as a primary aroma ingredient

Recommended usage depends strongly on the final product type and supplier specifications.

Works Well With

• Water

• Propylene Glycol

• Dipropylene Glycol

• Ethanol

• Cosmetic Humectants

• Water-Soluble Ingredients

• Personal-Care Ingredients

• Fragrance Emulsions

Common Applications

• Skincare

• Cosmetics

• Body Care

• Soap

• Shower Products

• Creams & Lotions

• Water-Based Formulations

• Personal-Care Products

• Pharmaceutical Formulations

• Industrial Applications

Perfumers' Tip

Glycerine is not primarily a perfume material. Its main value is as a humectant and functional ingredient. When formulating fragrances or body-care products, use it for its moisture-retention and formulation properties rather than expecting it to contribute a noticeable odor or act as a traditional fragrance fixative.