Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract: 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 Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract?

Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract comes from the root of the Glycyrrhiza inflata plant, a member of the legume family better known as a type of licorice. The root is naturally packed with flavonoids, most notably licochalcone A, along with small amounts of glycyrrhizin and plant sugars. Herbal texts from China and Japan have praised this root for centuries for its calming and brightening qualities and those traditional ideas inspired modern laboratories to explore it for skin care.

To create the cosmetic grade extract farmers harvest the roots, dry them then grind them into a fine powder. The powder is soaked in a plant-friendly solvent, usually water or glycerin, to draw out the active molecules. After filtering, the liquid is concentrated and sometimes standardized so each batch delivers a consistent level of licochalcone A.

Formulators add Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract to a wide range of products including daily moisturizers, soothing serums, brightening spot treatments, anti-aging creams, sheet masks, after-sun gels and even some sunscreens where its antioxidant nature can support UV filters.

Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care formulas Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract is valued for one main role

Skin conditioning: its blend of flavonoids helps calm visible redness, supports the skin barrier and leaves the surface feeling soft and supple. Regular use can promote a more even tone which is why it often appears in products aimed at dull or sensitive skin.

Who Can Use Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract

This root extract is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because its main role is to soothe and support the skin barrier without leaving a greasy or heavy residue. Extremely reactive or compromised skin may still want to start slowly as even gentle botanicals can occasionally provoke a response if the skin is already inflamed.

Because the ingredient is derived entirely from a plant source and no animal derivatives are used in its production it is considered appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans.

Current data suggests that topical use of Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract is safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding in concentrations normally found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare products past a qualified doctor just to be on the safe side.

The extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can even pair well with sunscreen formulas. There are no known interactions with common actives such as retinoids or AHAs, though formulating chemists still balance pH and preservative systems to keep everything stable.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects, though most users will not experience any of them when the ingredient has been formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild stinging or burning on application
  • Temporary redness or flushing
  • Itchy rash or contact dermatitis in those allergic to legumes or licorice plants
  • Very rare hyperpigmentation or light spots in areas with existing inflammation

If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a dermatologist or healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract is almost entirely water-soluble flavonoids and sugars, which means it does not leave an oily film that could block pores. It is normally used at low concentrations and is often paired with lightweight carriers like water or glycerin, so the risk of clogging is practically zero.

Because of this it is considered safe for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

The only time pore issues might arise is if the extract sits in a very rich cream loaded with heavy oils or waxes, in which case those other ingredients are the bigger concern, not the extract itself.

Summary

Glycyrrhiza Inflata Root Extract is best known for calming redness, supporting the skin barrier and giving the complexion a more even look. It does this through its star molecule licochalcone A, an antioxidant flavonoid that soothes irritation and helps skin recover from daily stress.

While not as famous as retinol or vitamin C, the extract is gaining popularity in soothing serums, after-sun gels and modern sunscreens where its gentle touch fits today’s trend for barrier-friendly formulas.

Safety studies and decades of herbal use show it is very well tolerated for most people with only rare allergic reactions reported. As with any new product a quick patch test is smart to make sure your skin agrees with it.

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