What Is Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract?
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract is derived from the young shoots of the Glycyrrhiza uralensis plant, a member of the Fabaceae family better known as Chinese licorice. These tender sprouts contain concentrated amounts of the same soothing compounds found in mature licorice roots, most notably glycyrrhizic acid, flavonoids and polysaccharides. Licorice has been prized in traditional beauty rituals throughout East Asia for centuries, and modern formulators began turning to the sprout extract when research showed it offers a milder yet still effective profile compared with root extracts.
The extract is produced by harvesting fresh sprouts, gently drying them to preserve heat-sensitive actives, then soaking the plant material in a food-grade solvent such as glycerin or water. After maceration the liquid is filtered and concentrated, yielding a golden-hued extract that can be blended into cosmetic bases.
Because of its skin-conditioning and emollient properties, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract is commonly found in calming face masks, daily moisturizers, anti-aging serums, after-sun gels and products formulated for sensitive or redness-prone skin.
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This botanical serves more than one purpose in skincare formulas.
- Skin Conditioning: Helps maintain soft, supple skin by delivering flavonoids and sugars that support the skin’s natural moisture balance while providing a soothing feel, making it ideal for products targeting sensitivity or irritation
- Emollient: Forms a lightweight film on the surface that smooths rough texture, enhances spreadability of creams and lotions and imparts a silky finish without clogging pores
Who Can Use Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract
This extract is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin. Its calming nature makes it especially welcome in routines that address redness or post-treatment irritation, yet the lightweight emollient feel will not overwhelm oilier complexions. There are no known reasons a healthy skin type would need to avoid it, though anyone with a documented licorice allergy should steer clear.
Because the ingredient is derived solely from the sprouts of the Glycyrrhiza uralensis plant and no animal by-products are involved in its extraction, it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current research does not flag topical Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract as a specific risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask a doctor before adding new skincare products, just to be safe.
The extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used both morning and night without increasing the need for sun protection beyond the usual daily SPF recommendation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract can differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or stinging immediately after application
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to licorice plants
- Temporary flushing if applied to freshly exfoliated or compromised skin
- Rare localized swelling when high concentrations are used on very thin skin areas
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract is largely composed of water-soluble flavonoids, polysaccharides and trace levels of gentle plant oils, so it sits very low on the pore-clogging scale. It does not leave an occlusive film and is typically added at low percentages, which further reduces any risk of buildup inside follicles. The only time congestion might occur is if the extract is combined with heavy butters or waxes in a finished formula, not from the extract itself.
Acne-prone suitability: This ingredient is considered safe for those who break out easily and can be used in routines that aim to keep pores clear.
As always, the overall product recipe and the rest of your skincare steps play a bigger role in breakouts than a single low-comedogenic botanical.
Summary
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Sprout Extract functions as a skin-conditioning and emollient agent, meaning it helps skin stay moisturized, feel soothed and look smoother. Its mix of glycyrrhizic acid, flavonoids and natural sugars binds water to the surface, calms visible redness and lends a silky slip to creams and serums.
While licorice root is a household name in beauty, the sprout version is still a niche but steadily growing option prized by formulators who want a gentler take on traditional licorice benefits.
Topical use is regarded as very safe with minimal sensitivity reports. Still, every skin is unique so doing a quick patch test when trying a new product containing this extract is the smartest way to make sure it plays nicely with your complexion.