Glycerol Regulates Stratum Corneum Hydration in Sebaceous Gland Deficient (Asebia) Mice
May 2003
in “
Journal of Investigative Dermatology
”
TLDR Glycerol is essential for skin hydration in mice without sebaceous glands.
The study found that sebaceous gland-deficient (asebia) mice had significantly reduced stratum corneum (SC) hydration, despite normal barrier function, due to decreased sebaceous gland lipids. Topical glycerol application, but not synthetic sebum-like lipids, normalized SC hydration, indicating glycerol's critical role. Glycerol content in asebia mice was 85% lower than in normal mice, underscoring the importance of sebaceous-gland-derived glycerol in maintaining SC hydration.