Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate: 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 Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate?

Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate comes from the callus cells of Glycyrrhiza uralensis, better known as licorice root. A callus is a mass of plant cells grown under sterile lab conditions. Scientists start by taking a small piece of licorice root tissue and placing it in a nutrient-rich medium so the cells multiply. Once enough cells grow, the culture is filtered to remove solid bits, leaving a clear liquid rich in the cells’ natural compounds, including sugars, amino acids and small amounts of licorice-derived flavonoids.

Licorice itself has been used in beauty recipes for centuries, prized for its skin-soothing nature. Modern labs adopted callus culture methods because they offer a steady, sustainable supply of these plant goodies without over-harvesting the root. The filtrate is easier to standardize and fits well into water-based formulas.

You will spot Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks and anti-aging creams where an extra touch of softness is wanted.

Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient mainly plays one role in skincare formulas.

As an emollient it helps smooth rough patches and fill in tiny gaps on the skin surface. This leaves skin feeling softer and more comfortable while also improving the spreadability of the product itself so it glides on evenly.

Who Can Use Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate

This filtrate is gentle and lightweight so it suits nearly every skin type, from dry and sensitive to balanced or oily. Those with very oily or acne-prone skin usually tolerate it well because it is non-greasy and does not clog pores. No specific skin type needs to avoid it.

The ingredient is plant-derived and produced without animal inputs, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Current research shows no issues for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the product to a healthcare professional before adding it to a routine, just to be careful.

Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate is not known to cause photosensitivity so there is no special sun-related caution beyond everyday sunscreen use.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects which are uncommon when the ingredient is correctly formulated.

  • Mild redness or irritation in very sensitive skin
  • Temporary stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Allergic reaction such as itching or small hives in individuals allergic to licorice plants

Stop using the product and seek medical advice if you notice any of these reactions or other unexpected changes in your skin.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate is almost entirely water based with tiny amounts of naturally occurring sugars and amino acids. It contains no heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids that typically block pores, so it earns a zero on the comedogenic scale.

This makes the filtrate perfectly fine for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin types.

As always, the final formula matters. If the product pairs this filtrate with rich butters or comedogenic oils, the overall pore-clogging risk can rise even though the filtrate itself stays non-comedogenic.

Summary

Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Callus Culture Filtrate acts mainly as an emollient, smoothing rough spots and boosting a product’s silky glide by filling in microscopic gaps on the skin surface. Because it is produced from lab-grown licorice cells, it offers a steady plant-based supply without stressing natural resources.

The ingredient is still something of a niche player rather than a household name, yet formulators appreciate its gentle feel and clean sourcing so it is popping up more often in modern lightweight moisturizers and serums.

Overall safety is high, with only rare reports of irritation or allergy in people sensitive to licorice. When testing any new product that features this filtrate give your skin a small patch trial first to make sure it agrees with you.

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