Is Glycerin Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Glycerin is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (humectant).
INCI name GLYCERIN. Also called Glycerol. CAS 56-81-5.
Other names: Glycerol, Glycerine, 1,2,3-Propanetriol
Is Glycerin banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream |
| CAS number | 56-81-5 |
What is Glycerin?
Glycerin is a simple polyol (sugar alcohol) that is colorless, odorless, and viscous. It naturally occurs in all animal and vegetable fats and is the backbone of triglyceride molecules. Cosmetic glycerin is typically derived from vegetable oils (plant-based) or as a biodiesel byproduct.
Why is Glycerin used in personal-care products?
Glycerin is the quintessential humectant — it attracts and holds water molecules from the environment and deeper skin layers, improving skin hydration, plumpness, and barrier function. It is also used as a solvent and texture agent.
Is Glycerin dangerous? Documented risks
Glycerin is one of the safest cosmetic ingredients known, with centuries of use. The CIR has repeatedly confirmed its safety. It is non-irritating, non-allergenic, and non-toxic. At very high concentrations in leave-on products (>30%), it can have a dehydrating paradox effect — pulling water from the dermis if the environment is very dry — but this is not a health risk. It is safe for all ages including infants.
Products that may contain Glycerin
- Fig Bar BlueberryNature's Bakery
- ORGANIC SOFT BAKED OAT BARS chocolate chipMADE GOOD MORNINGS
- Gushers Variety PackGeneral Mills
- Sour Blue Raspberry StripsJoyride
- High Protein Baked Bar Chocolate Peanut ButterRobert Irvine's Fit Crunch
- Caramel S'Mores ClustersKirkland Signature
- Fresca Sparkling Soda Water Grapefruit CitrusFresca
- THIRST QUENCHERGATORADE
How to avoid Glycerin: safer alternatives
It is itself an unsurpassed humectant; sodium hyaluronate or panthenol as complementary humectants.
Frequently asked questions about Glycerin
Is glycerin vegan?
It can be vegan or animal-derived (from animal fat). Vegetable-derived glycerin is specified as 'vegetable glycerin' or 'glycerin (vegetal).' Most cosmetic glycerin is plant-based today.
Does glycerin make skin oily?
No. Glycerin is water-based and non-greasy. It feels slightly tacky at high concentrations but does not add oil to the skin.
Is glycerin safe for oily and acne-prone skin?
Yes. Glycerin is non-comedogenic and is recommended by dermatologists for oily and acne-prone skin as a lightweight moisturizer.
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Sources
- CIR Final Safety Assessment of Glycerin — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Glycerin — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.