Liquid Paraffin vs. Glycerin — What's the Difference?

While both Liquid Paraffin and Glycerin have their distinct uses, they often work in tandem in various products to provide a balanced moisturizing effect. For instance, a skincare product might use Liquid Paraffin to lock in moisture and Glycerin to attract additional moisture to the skin.

In the pharmaceutical industry, Liquid Paraffin is used as a laxative. When consumed, it helps ease the passage of stool. Glycerin, in this context, is also used as a laxative but in a suppository form. It works by irritating the bowel and drawing water into the intestine, making it easier to pass stool.

Liquid Paraffin and Glycerin are both substances commonly found in a variety of products, including those for skincare and pharmaceuticals. Liquid Paraffin, also known as mineral oil, is a clear, colorless, and odorless oil derived from petroleum. Its primary use is as a laxative and a moisturizer in skincare products. On the other hand, Glycerin, sometimes known as glycerol, is a sugar alcohol derived from animal or vegetable fats.

Liquid Paraffin can be found in products like baby oils and various creams for its occlusive properties. It’s not water-soluble and remains on the skin's surface. Glycerin, however, is water-soluble and can be found in a broader range of products, from lotions to soaps, and even in foods as a sweetener or preservative.

Liquid Paraffin is often used in cosmetics, ointments, and lotions because of its moisturizing properties. It creates a barrier on the skin's surface that helps retain moisture. Conversely, Glycerin is a humectant, which means it attracts water to itself. In skincare products, Glycerin draws moisture from the air and helps the skin retain it, making the skin feel soft and hydrated.