What is the Difference Between Liquid Paraffin and Glycerin?

The main differences between liquid paraffin and glycerin are their sources, chemical structures, and primary uses. Here are the key differences:

1. Source: Liquid paraffin is a highly refined mineral oil derived from petroleum, while glycerin is a simple polyol compound derived from animal or vegetable fats.
2. Chemical Structure: Liquid paraffin is an alkane, whereas glycerin is an alcohol with the chemical formula C3H8O3.
3. Primary Uses: Liquid paraffin is used as a laxative and skin moisturizer, providing an occlusive barrier on the skin's surface to help retain moisture. Glycerin, on the other hand, is a humectant that attracts water to itself, drawing moisture from the air and helping the skin retain it, making the skin feel soft and hydrated. It is also used in pharmaceutical drugs for heart medication, suppositories, cough remedies, and anesthetics.

In summary, liquid paraffin is a mineral oil mainly used as a laxative and skin moisturizer, while glycerin is a sugar alcohol used in skincare products, pharmaceuticals, and as a sweetener or preservative in foods.

Comparative Table: Liquid Paraffin vs Glycerin

Liquid paraffin and glycerin are both used in various applications, but they have different properties and uses. Here is a table comparing the differences between the two:

Liquid paraffin is a highly refined mineral oil used as a laxative and skin moisturizer, while glycerin is a simple polyol compound with various pharmaceutical applications, such as heart medication, suppositories, cough remedies, and anesthetics.