Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root refers to the powdered or coarsely ground dried root of the licorice plant. It contains glycyrrhizin (and glycyrrhetinic acid), glabridin, liquiritin, flavonoids, coumarins, and polysaccharides. In cosmetics it is used primarily in powdered form for mild exfoliation, soothing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin-brightening effects. The whole root (non-extracted) delivers a more physical and gradual release of actives compared to concentrated extracts. It is found in gentle exfoliating masks, soothing powders, natural toothpastes, scalp scrubs, and some traditional or DIY-inspired formulations targeting irritated, hyperpigmented, or oily skin.
Products with GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA ROOT
With samples available
Cosme-Phytami® Licorice
by Alban Muller International (Croda)
- Sustainable option
4MAN
by Chemyunion
- Sustainable option
What is GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA ROOT used for?
- Skin conditioning / Soothing: Calms irritation and redness due to glycyrrhetinic acid and flavonoids. Frequently used in soothing masks, after-sun powders, and sensitive skin products.
- Mild exfoliation / Physical scrub: Provides gentle physical exfoliation when used in powdered form. Common in facial and body scrubs for smoothing without harsh abrasion.
- Brightening / Tone evening: Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase and helps reduce hyperpigmentation. Ideal in natural brightening masks and spot treatments.
- Antioxidant & anti-inflammatory: Protects against oxidative stress and inflammation. Used in anti-aging powders, calming masks, and protective formulations.
- Masking: Natural herbal note can help mask unpleasant odors in some natural formulations.
Origin
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root is harvested from the roots of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra), a perennial legume native to southern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Roots are collected after 3-4 years of growth, cleaned, dried, and then ground or powdered to various mesh sizes for cosmetic use. It is 100% plant-derived, renewable, and widely available in organic-certified and food-grade qualities suitable for natural and traditional formulations.
What does GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA ROOT do in a formulation?
SKIN CONDITIONING|
SOOTHING|
ANTIOXIDANT|
MASKINGSafety Profile
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root (whole/powdered) is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has a low hazard rating from EWG (typically 1) and minimal concerns for irritation or sensitization at typical concentrations. It is gentler than concentrated extracts in some cases because actives are less concentrated. Well-tolerated on most skin types, including sensitive. Rare allergic reactions may occur in individuals sensitive to Leguminosae family plants. Patch testing is recommended. High-glycyrrhizin content may cause mild irritation in some users, always use appropriate mesh size for exfoliating applications to avoid abrasion.
GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA ROOT alternatives
GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA ROOT technical profile
| Property | Values |
| pH | Neutral to slightly acidic (in suspension) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water (requires extraction for soluble actives) |
Formulations with GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA ROOT
No data available
By Application
No data available