Thanks to its hygroscopicity, glycerine can moisturise the skin; this is why it is an ingredient of many preparations for cosmetic use, such as creams, soaps, jellies and oils. It has an antiseptic action due to the ability to dehydrate bacteria. It is considered as a great solvent with stabilising and preserving properties. When administered via the rectal route, it has a laxative action due to the ability of directly irritating smooth muscles; it softens faeces and lubricates their transit. Formulations with laxative effect, containing glycerine, are mainly suppositories, micro-enemas and enemas. When taken orally, it is useful both as a laxative and to decrease intra-ocular pressure thanks to its ability to increase the blood osmotic pressure.