The Truth about Glycerin

The talk about Glycerin is out of control in the lubricant world. There is a lot of misinformation about this specific compound. Bloggers, social media gurus, self-proclaimed “sexperts”, or “loveologists” often link glycerin to “poison,” a “harsh chemical” or a “sugar,” all of which should be avoided under any circumstances. This has done a huge disservice to lubricants and the countless people who use them.

Glycerin is a very common additive found in many vaginal products. While some experts have classified it as a drying agent, glycerin is in fact a humectant, which is specifically designed to help retain moisture. It’s a common component of many sexual lubricants, especially those with flavors or enhancements like warming.

Some may feel that using a product with glycerin could make them more susceptible to yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis infections. More scientific data is needed to determine if there is a link. While some animal-based studies show that glycerin may impact animal vaginal and rectal mucosa, there aren’t enough human studies.

Glycerin causing sexually transmitted or candida yeast infections is a commonly held misperception. Vaginal yeast infections may develop for a variety of reasons, including hormonal imbalances and/or repetitive antibiotic use. A combination of several risk factors can be the tipping point for a potential infection. Glycerin may just be one on a long list of risk factors that lead to a yeast infection. Not everyone who uses a glycerin-containing lubricant is destined to develop a candida infection. Alternatively, using a glycerin-free lubricant won’t prevent a yeast infection.

If you are prone to or at a high risk for candida vaginal infections (like those with uncontrolled diabetes), consider avoiding glycerin products.

In reality, all glycerins are not created equal. There are many types. Some are made from animal fat while others are made from vegetable oil. High-quality glycerin, that is medical grade and ultra-pure, is an excellent component for water-based lubricants. Glycerin is long lasting, does not leave any crusty or filmy residue, and is natural.

Glycerin is not poison to the vagina. Often, poor quality or impure ingredients that are in many lubricants give it a bad reputation. In the US, most over the counter lubricants remain unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration

Not all types of glycerin’s are created equal, and many manufacturers do not disclose the source of their glycerin.

To make matters worse, studies are all over the place. One may link glycerin as a cause of infection, whereas another may dispute any linkage. In an animal study, no obvious change to the vaginal flora of rhesus monkeys was noted from the use of sexual enhancement gel, despite the product’s rather high glycerin content.

The bottom line is more hard-core scientific data is needed to clearly define if glycerin has any direct or indirect effect on your vaginal balance. Learn more about your lubricants’ ingredients and find what is best for you. Know your body! You have plenty of options. Pick the one that makes you feel sexy and flirty so you can fulfill all your bedroom fantasies.