Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice?

Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice is the liquid pressed from the flowers, leaves and stems of the soybean plant. While most people know soybeans for food, the plant also holds a rich mix of proteins, sugars, amino acids and antioxidants that are useful for skin care. Beauty formulators started looking at soy extracts in the late 20th century when research showed that soy compounds could soften and smooth skin. Over time the focus expanded beyond the bean itself to the rest of the plant, leading to the use of this full-plant juice in modern cosmetics.

The juice is made by harvesting fresh soybean flowers, leaves and stems, then crushing and gently pressing them to release their watery sap. This raw juice is filtered to remove solids and sometimes lightly preserved to stay fresh. Because the process is mild, many of the plant’s natural skin-loving components remain intact.

You will most often see Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice in moisturizers, sheet masks, lightweight lotions, after-sun gels and anti-aging serums where it supports a smooth hydrated finish.

Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is valued for one key role in skin care.

As a skin conditioning agent, Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice helps keep the surface of the skin soft, supple and comfortable. Its blend of natural sugars and amino acids draws in moisture, while plant proteins form a light film that smooths rough texture. The result is skin that feels hydrated and looks healthier, making the juice a useful addition to formulas aimed at daily hydration or soothing care.

Who Can Use Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice

Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice is generally well tolerated and suits dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin because it is lightweight and packed with soothing humectants. The only group that may need extra caution is anyone with a known soy allergy since the ingredient is sourced directly from the soybean plant and could trigger a reaction.

Because the juice is completely plant derived and no animal by-products are involved in its extraction or processing, it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

No data suggest that the topical use of this juice poses a risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, the soybean plant naturally contains low levels of phytoestrogens, and out of an abundance of caution it is best for expectant or nursing mothers to discuss any new skin care product with a qualified healthcare provider. This is not medical advice.

The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It can be used morning or night without special sun-related restrictions.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice differ from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used at the levels normally found in cosmetics.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to soy
  • Mild redness or stinging on highly reactive skin
  • Rare clogged pores or small breakouts on very oily skin types
  • Possible irritation if applied to open cuts or compromised skin barriers

If any irritation, swelling or other unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5. Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice is a watery plant extract with minimal oils or heavy waxes, so it is unlikely to block pores. The small amount of natural sugars, amino acids and proteins sits lightly on skin and rinses away easily. In rare cases very oily or congestion-prone skin might notice tiny bumps if a formula containing the juice also has richer occlusives, but the juice itself has little pore-clogging potential.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin in most cases.

As with any ingredient, overall formula matters; if the product pairs this juice with comedogenic oils the risk can increase.

Summary

Glycine Max Flower/Leaf/Stem Juice primarily conditions skin by drawing in water with its natural humectants and smoothing the surface with light plant proteins. The result is softer, more hydrated skin that looks fresh and feels comfortable.

It appears sporadically in moisturizers, masks and soothing gels rather than being a breakout star, yet formulators who want a gentle plant-based hydrator appreciate its versatility.

Topically it is considered very safe for most users, with soy allergy being the main caveat. Whenever you try a new product containing this or any unfamiliar ingredient, a quick patch test is a smart precaution.

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