What Is Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate?
Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate is a hybrid molecule made by linking vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) with glycyrrhetinic acid, the soothing component found in licorice root. By combining these two naturally occurring substances, chemists created an ingredient that delivers the skin nurturing traits of both in a single, more stable form. The idea surfaced in the late 1990s when formulators looked for ways to pair vitamins with botanical actives to boost their stay-on-skin power without raising irritation risks. Today the compound is produced through a controlled reaction that binds purified pyridoxine with glycyrrhetinic acid in a one-to-one ratio, followed by filtration and drying to yield a fine white powder ready for cosmetic use.
You will usually spot Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate in leave-on products where skin comfort and resilience are key goals. Common formats include calming moisturizers, after-sun lotions, anti-aging serums, sheet masks and soothing eye creams. Because it plays well with both water and oil phases, it fits into creams, gels and lightweight emulsions without trouble.
Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate is valued mainly for one clear job
As a skin conditioning agent it helps the outer layer stay smooth, soft and balanced. The vitamin B6 side supports the skin’s natural renewal cycle while glycyrrhetinic acid brings calming properties that can ease the look of temporary redness. Together they reinforce the moisture barrier so the skin feels comfortable and looks healthier over time.
Who Can Use Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate
This ingredient is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and sensitive skin thanks to its soothing glycyrrhetinic acid component. Oily and acne-prone users generally tolerate it well too because it is lightweight and non-occlusive. No specific skin type is considered incompatible unless an individual has a known allergy to licorice derivatives or vitamin B6.
Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate is synthesized from plant-derived licorice root and laboratory-made vitamin B6 so it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. No animal-sourced raw materials are involved in standard production.
Current data shows no issues for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding since the compound stays on the surface layer of the skin and is used at very low levels in finished formulas. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a qualified healthcare professional.
The molecule itself does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there are no known interactions with common actives such as retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids. It can be paired with daily sunscreen without special precautions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly by reputable brands.
- Mild redness or warmth in the application area, usually short-lived
- Transient stinging or tingling especially on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Dryness or tightness if combined with other potent actives that disturb the barrier
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to licorice root constituents
- Swelling or itching around the eyes when used in eye-area products
If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5. Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate is classed as practically non-comedogenic because it is lightweight, non-occlusive and used at very low percentages in formulas. It does not form a heavy film or trap oils in pores, and its parent materials—vitamin B6 and glycyrrhetinic acid—have no record of clogging skin. For these reasons it is generally safe for acne-prone users who worry about breakouts.
No data suggest it worsens blackheads or whiteheads, and it pairs well with common blemish fighters like salicylic acid or niacinamide without raising congestion risk.
Summary
Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate serves mainly as a skin-conditioning agent. The pyridoxine side helps cell turnover stay on track while glycyrrhetinic acid delivers calm and comfort. Together they support a stronger moisture barrier so skin feels smooth, soft and less reactive.
Despite these perks the ingredient is still a niche player seen mostly in soothing creams, after-sun products and a handful of K-beauty masks. It has not reached the household-name status of hyaluronic acid or niacinamide yet, but formulators who need a gentle vitamin-plant combo appreciate its reliability.
Overall safety is high with irritation and allergy reports remaining rare. As with any new product it is smart to run a quick patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the formula.