Liquid Paraffin vs. Glycerin: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 30, 2024
Liquid Paraffin is a mineral oil used as a lubricant or laxative, while Glycerin is a sweet, syrupy alcohol used in foods, cosmetics, and medicines.
Key Differences
Liquid Paraffin, a clear, odorless oil derived from petroleum, is primarily used in cosmetics and as a laxative. Glycerin, a colorless, viscous liquid from animal fats or vegetable oils, serves as a humectant in cosmetics, retaining moisture on the skin.
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Jan 30, 2024
As a lubricant, Liquid Paraffin prevents water absorption from stools, easing constipation. Glycerin, on the other hand, is a humectant that draws water into the bowel, softening stools.
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Jan 30, 2024
In the beauty industry, Liquid Paraffin creates a barrier on the skin, trapping moisture. Glycerin, conversely, is valued for its ability to hydrate the skin by absorbing water from the air.
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Jan 30, 2024
Liquid Paraffin is inert, not reacting chemically with other substances, making it safe for a variety of uses. Glycerin, a simple polyol compound, is known for its solubility in water and its sweet taste.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
Regarding safety, Liquid Paraffin is not absorbed by the body, thus considered safe for topical use. Glycerin, widely recognized as safe for consumption, is used in foods and oral medications.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Application in Cosmetics
Forms a barrier on the skin
Draws moisture to the skin
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Jan 30, 2024
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Additional Uses
Industrial lubricant
Sweetener in foods, pharmaceutical agent
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Jan 30, 2024
Liquid Paraffin and Glycerin Definitions
Liquid Paraffin
A lubricant in mechanical and industrial applications.
Liquid Paraffin is used to lubricate machinery parts.
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Jan 05, 2024
Glycerin
A simple polyol compound used in pharmaceuticals.
Glycerin is an active ingredient in cough syrups.
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Jan 05, 2024
Liquid Paraffin
A laxative in medicinal uses.
Liquid Paraffin helps alleviate constipation in patients.
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Jan 05, 2024
Glycerin
A solvent and thickening agent in various industries.
Glycerin is used to improve texture in lotions.
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Jan 05, 2024
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Liquid Paraffin
An ingredient in some cosmetic products.
Liquid Paraffin is often found in lip balms for hydration.
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Jan 05, 2024
Glycerin
A humectant in cosmetics and personal care products.
Glycerin is added to moisturizers for its hydrating properties.
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Jan 05, 2024
Liquid Paraffin
A fluid for preserving specimens in laboratories.
Specimens are submerged in Liquid Paraffin to prevent decay.
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Jan 05, 2024
Glycerin
A component in electronic cigarette liquid.
Glycerin is used to produce vapor in e-cigarettes.
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Jan 05, 2024
Liquid Paraffin
A mineral oil used as an emollient.
Liquid Paraffin is added to lotions for its skin-softening properties.
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Jan 05, 2024
Glycerin
A sweetener and preservative in food.
Glycerin is used in candy making for sweetness and texture.
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Jan 05, 2024
Glycerin
An oily, viscous liquid, C3H5(OH)3, colorless and odorless, and with a hot, sweetish taste, existing in the natural fats and oils as the base, combined with various acids, as oleic, margaric, stearic, and palmitic. It may be obtained by saponification of fats and oils. It is a triatomic alcohol, and hence is also called glycerol. See Note under Gelatin.
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Jan 04, 2024
Glycerin
A sweet syrupy trihydroxy alcohol obtained by saponification of fats and oils
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Jan 04, 2024
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is Liquid Paraffin?
A mineral oil used in cosmetics and as a laxative.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
What is Glycerin?
A sweet, viscous liquid used in foods, cosmetics, and medicines.
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Jan 30, 2024
Can Liquid Paraffin expire?
It has a long shelf life but can degrade over time.
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Jan 30, 2024
Can Liquid Paraffin be used on hair?
It's not recommended as it's heavy and greasy.
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Jan 30, 2024
Does Glycerin help with acne?
It can help hydrate skin but doesn't treat acne directly.
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Jan 30, 2024
Is Liquid Paraffin toxic?
It's not toxic, but shouldn't be ingested in large quantities.
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Jan 30, 2024
What are the uses of Glycerin in cosmetics?
As a moisturizer and humectant.
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Jan 30, 2024
Can Glycerin freeze?
It has a low freezing point and usually remains liquid.
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Jan 30, 2024
Does Liquid Paraffin clog pores?
It can, as it creates a barrier on the skin.
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Jan 30, 2024
Is Glycerin good for all skin types?
Generally yes, but those with very sensitive skin should patch test first.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 30, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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