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what is vegetable glycerin & how to use it in skincare routine

Vegetable glycerin, also known as glycerol or VG, is a colorless and odorless liquid that is derived from plants. This versatile and natural substance has a myriad of uses in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, and it has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its health benefits and environmentally friendly properties. 

In this article, we will answer the question of what vegetable glycerin is, how it is used, and why it is so beneficial.

What is Vegetable Glycerin?

Vegetable glycerin is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid that is derived from vegetable oils, such as palm oil, coconut oil, and soybean oil. It is a viscous and sweet-tasting liquid that is commonly used as a food additive, preservative, and humectant (a substance that helps retain moisture). Glycerin is also a natural byproduct of the soap-making process, where it is produced when fats are broken down into their component parts.

Glycerin is unique in that it is both a water-soluble and oil-soluble compound, meaning that it can dissolve in both water and oil-based substances. This makes it an ideal ingredient for a wide range of applications, from moisturizing creams and lotions to soap and shampoo formulations.

What is Vegetable Glycerin Used for?

Vegetable glycerin is used in a variety of ways, both in commercial products and as a standalone ingredient. Here are some of the most common uses of vegetable glycerin:

Food and Beverages

Vegetable glycerin is commonly used as a sweetener and preservative in a variety of foods and beverages, including:

  • Baked goods
  • Chewing gum
  • Ice cream
  • Soft drinks
  • Wine and beer

Because vegetable glycerin is a natural ingredient that is derived from plants, it is often used as an alternative to artificial sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup or aspartame.

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Vegetable glycerin is a popular ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products due to its moisturizing properties. It is often used in products such as:

  • Moisturizing creams and lotions
  • Lip balms
  • Shampoos and conditioners
  • Soaps and body washes

Because vegetable glycerin is a humectant, it helps to draw moisture to the skin, keeping it hydrated and soft.

Pharmaceutical and Medical Products

Vegetable glycerin has several medicinal properties that make it useful in pharmaceutical and medical products, including:

  • Cough syrups and expectorants
  • Suppositories and enemas
  • Toothpaste and mouthwash

Additionally, vegetable glycerin is sometimes used as a carrier for medicine and herbal remedies, as it can help to facilitate the absorption of these substances into the body.

Benefits of vegetable glycerin for skin

Vegetable glycerin is a versatile and effective ingredient that can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions,” said Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a dermatologist based in New York City. As you know, vegetable glycerin functions as a humectant, attracting moisture into the skin and retaining it. This property is highly beneficial for enhancing the skin’s barrier function and overall skin health.

  • Hydrates and moisturizes the skin and hair: Vegetable glycerin can help to draw water into the skin and hair, which can help to keep them hydrated and moisturized. This is especially beneficial for people with dry, flaky skin or dry, brittle hair.
  • Improves skin barrier function: Vegetable glycerin can help to strengthen the skin barrier, which can help to protect the skin from environmental toxins and irritants. This can be especially helpful for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
  • Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines: According to a 2021 study published in the journal “Skin Pharmacology and Physiology”: vegetable glycerin can help to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The study found that vegetable glycerin helped to plump up the skin and increase collagen production. This is because it helps to increase the production of collagen and elastin, which are proteins that give the skin its structure and elasticity.
  • Soothes irritated skin: Vegetable glycerin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe irritated skin. This can be helpful for people with skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, or for people who have irritated skin from shaving or waxing.

potential side effects of vegetable glycerin

Vegetable glycerin, while widely used in skincare and various products, can trigger several potential concerns. Skin irritation is a common issue, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin, often manifesting as redness, itching, and a burning sensation. Additionally, as a sugar alcohol, vegetable glycerin may not be completely digested by the body, potentially leading to digestive problems such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea in some individuals. 

Allergic reactions are possible, with symptoms ranging from hives and swelling to more severe manifestations like difficulty breathing and anaphylaxis. It’s essential to be aware of these potential reactions and seek medical attention if any adverse symptoms arise after using products containing vegetable glycerin.

How to Use Vegetable Glycerin in your skincare routine

Add it to your moisturizer

Vegetable glycerin can help to hydrate and plump up the skin, making it a great addition to your daily moisturizer. To add vegetable glycerin to your moisturizer, simply mix a few drops with your regular moisturizer and apply it to your skin.

Use it as a toner

Balance your skin’s pH and eliminate residual dirt and oil by preparing a toner with equal parts vegetable glycerin and water. Spray this mixture onto your face after cleansing and gently pat it dry.

Make a face mask

Formulate a simple DIY face mask by combining one part vegetable glycerin with two parts water. Apply this mixture to your face, leave it on for 15-20 minutes, and then rinse it off. You can also add other ingredients to your face mask, such as honey, oatmeal, or yogurt.

Add it to your bath

Vegetable glycerin can also be added to your bath to help hydrate and soften your skin. To add vegetable glycerin to your bath, simply add a few drops to the running water.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between vegetable glycerin and propylene glycol? Propylene glycol is a synthetic compound that is often used as a humectant in cosmetic and personal care products. While it shares some similarities with vegetable glycerin, propylene glycol is derived from petroleum and can be potentially harmful when ingested or applied topically. Vegetable glycerin, on the other hand, is a natural and safe alternative to propylene glycol.
  2. Is vegetable glycerin safe to consume? Yes, vegetable glycerin is safe to consume in moderation. It is often used as a food additive and sweetener, and it has no known negative side effects when consumed in reasonable amounts.
  3. Can vegetable glycerin be used on sensitive skin? Yes, vegetable glycerin is gentle and non-irritating, making it an ideal ingredient for those with sensitive skin. It can help to soothe dry or irritated skin without causing any adverse reactions.
  4. Can vegetable glycerin be used as a substitute for alcohol-based extracts? Yes, vegetable glycerin can be used as a substitute for alcohol-based extracts in certain applications. It can help to extract the beneficial compounds from herbs or other plant materials without the harshness or drying effects of alcohol.
  5. Does vegetable glycerin have a shelf life? Yes, vegetable glycerin has a shelf life of approximately two years if stored properly in a cool, dry place.

19 Styles of Natural Platinum Blonde Hair to Inspire Your Look

Welcome to the world of timeless elegance and captivating allure – where hair takes on a hue that is as rare as it is striking. In this exploration of beauty, we delve into the enchanting realm of natural platinum blonde hair. Platinum blonde, renowned for its ethereal and almost otherworldly appearance, is a shade that has captivated hearts for generations. Unlike other hair colors, this extraordinary tone is not merely a result of dye, but rather a rarity bestowed upon a select few by nature itself.

Join us as we explore the nuances and intricacies of these 19 exquisite styles, discovering the magic that lies within their subtleties and the undeniable charm they bring to those who wear them. 

What Is Natural Platinum Blonde Hair?

Natural platinum blonde hair is a hair color that is extremely light in color, almost white or silver in appearance. It is a cool-toned shade that complements fair skin tones and adds a unique edge to any hairstyle. This hair color is rare and typically found in people with Scandinavian or Northern European ancestry.

19 Natural Platinum Blonde Hair Inspirations

Sleek Straight Platinum Bob: A chin-length bob with straight, sleek strands brings out the icy beauty of platinum blonde hair.

Messy Beach Waves: Effortless waves add texture and depth to your platinum blonde locks, creating a casual yet sophisticated look.

Long Flowing Locks: Let your natural platinum blonde hair flow down your back, showcasing its luminous beauty.

Pixie Cut with Undercut: A daring and modern choice, a platinum pixie cut with an undercut is both edgy and chic.

Platinum Braided Updo: Incorporate braids into an updo to add intricate detail and contrast to your platinum blonde locks.

Half-Up Half-Down Bun: Gather the top half of your hair into a bun while leaving the rest down for a playful and stylish hairstyle.

Side-Swept Bangs: Add a touch of elegance with side-swept bangs that complement your platinum blonde shade.

Platinum Blonde Ponytail: Elevate a simple ponytail by showcasing the striking color of your hair, giving off a fresh and youthful vibe.

Vintage Pin Curls: Embrace a retro look with carefully crafted pin curls that highlight the timeless beauty of platinum blonde hair.

Low Messy Bun: Create a relaxed and charming appearance with a low messy bun that emphasizes the ethereal shade of your hair.

Platinum French Braid: Incorporate a French braid into your hairdo to add a touch of intricate detail and sophistication.

Tousled Short Bob: For a carefree yet stylish appearance, opt for a tousled bob that showcases the natural movement of your platinum locks.

Platinum Blonde Fishtail Braid: Experiment with a fishtail braid that beautifully showcases the multi-dimensional aspects of your hair color.

Center-Parted Straight Hair: Keep it simple and classic with a center-parted style that highlights the sleekness of your platinum blonde hair.

Platinum Blonde Chignon: Opt for a chignon for an elegant and refined look that highlights the subtleties of your hair color.

Braided Crown: Create a regal appearance with a braided crown that beautifully frames your face and accentuates your hair color.

Platinum Top Knot: Gather your hair into a high top knot for a trendy and fashionable look that displays the uniqueness of your hair color.

Swept Back Layers: Let your platinum blonde layers frame your face as they’re gently swept back, showcasing your hair’s radiant shine.

Platinum Balayage: Add depth to your platinum blonde hair with a balayage technique, incorporating shades of blonde for a more dynamic look.

How to Achieve Natural Platinum Blonde Hair

  • Lighten your hair: You will need to lighten your hair to achieve platinum blonde hair, especially if you have naturally dark hair. You can choose from various methods of lightening, such as bleaching, highlights, or balayage. However, to avoid damage to your hair, it is recommended that you visit a professional hair colorist for this process.
  • Toning: After lightening your hair, you will need to tone it to achieve the desired platinum blonde shade. Toning helps to neutralize any unwanted undertones and create a cooler, silvery finish. Use a toner that is specifically designed for blonde hair to get the best results.
  • Maintenance: To keep your natural platinum blonde hair looking its best, you will need to maintain it regularly. This includes using high-quality shampoos and conditioners that are specifically formulated for blonde hair, avoiding heat styling tools, and protecting your hair from the sun’s UV rays.

Tips for Maintaining Natural Platinum Blonde Hair

  • Use a purple shampoo: Purple shampoo helps to neutralize any brassy or yellow tones in your hair, keeping your platinum blonde shade looking fresh and bright.
  • Deep condition regularly: Bleaching and toning can be harsh on your hair, so it is crucial to deep condition regularly to keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
  • Avoid heat styling tools: Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling wands can damage your hair and cause it to become dry and brittle. Instead, opt for natural styling methods like air-drying or using foam rollers.
  • Protect your hair from the sun: The sun’s UV rays can cause your hair color to fade and become damaged. To protect your hair, wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner that contains SPF.
  • Trim your hair regularly: Regular trims can help to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends, which can make your hair look frizzy and dull.

FAQs

  1. Can I achieve natural platinum blonde hair at home? While it is possible to achieve platinum blonde hair at home, it is recommended that you visit a professional hair colorist to avoid damaging your hair.
  2. Will platinum blonde hair suit my skin tone? Platinum blonde hair typically complements fair skin tones, but it can also look stunning on darker skin tones with warm undertones.
  3. How often should I wash my natural platinum blonde hair? It is recommended that you wash your hair every other day to keep it clean and healthy. However, if your hair tends to dry out easily, you may want to wash it less frequently.
  1. Can I dye my hair another color after having natural platinum blonde hair? Yes, you can dye your hair another color after having platinum blonde hair. 
  2. What are some natural remedies for maintaining platinum blonde hair? Some natural remedies for maintaining platinum blonde hair include using apple cider vinegar as a rinse, applying coconut oil as a hair mask, and using chamomile tea to brighten your hair color.

Conclusion

Natural platinum blonde hair is a stunning and unique hair color that requires proper maintenance to keep it looking its best. Achieving this look requires several steps, including lightening and toning your hair, but with the right techniques and products, it is possible. Remember to maintain your hair regularly and protect it from damage to keep it healthy and vibrant. With these tips, you’ll be rocking natural platinum blonde hair in no time!