How to Use Glycerine on Your Face

Glycerine is a humectant, which means it works best when there's already some moisture on your skin for it to lock in. Applying it to bone-dry skin, or in too thick a layer, is the most common mistake — here's the routine that actually works.

Patch test first

Glycerine is one of the more gentle, well-tolerated ingredients in skincare, but it's still worth patch testing on your inner forearm 24 hours before using it on your face for the first time, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Step by step

1. Wash your face and pat it dry with a towel, but leave it slightly damp — not bone dry.
2. Pour a few drops of glycerine into your palm or directly onto your face.
3. Smooth it evenly over your face, avoiding the eye area.
4. Let it settle for 20-30 minutes.
5. Rinse off with water, or leave it on overnight if your skin tolerates it well.

A little goes a long way — a few drops is enough for your whole face. Using too much can leave a slightly tacky feel, especially in humid weather.

Mixing with rose water

Glycerine straight from the bottle can feel slightly sticky on its own, which is why it's commonly diluted with rose water before applying — this also adds a light toning effect. See our full breakdown in glycerine and rose water.

How often

Once daily, ideally at night, is enough for most skin types. If your skin is very dry, you can use it both morning and night. If you have oily skin, start with 2-3 times a week and see how your skin responds — more on that in is glycerine good for oily skin.

What to avoid

• Don't apply a thick, undiluted layer in very humid weather — it can feel heavy and sticky.
• Avoid direct contact with the eyes.
• Don't use glycerine as a substitute for sunscreen or your regular moisturizer — pair it with your routine, not instead of it.