What Is Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate?
Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate is the tripotassium salt of glycyrrhizic acid, a naturally sweet compound extracted from the root of the licorice plant. Converting glycyrrhizic acid into its tripotassium form increases its water solubility, making it easier to blend into water-based skincare formulas. Licorice root has a long history in traditional wellness practices for its calming properties, and scientists began isolating and refining its active molecules in the mid-20th century. The cosmetic industry soon adopted Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate for its ability to soothe and condition the skin. Manufacturing starts with purified glycyrrhizic acid, which is neutralized with potassium hydroxide to form the tripotassium salt. The resulting solution is filtered, dried, and milled into a fine powder ready for use in formulations. You will most often see this ingredient in moisturizers, serums, sheet masks, soothing toners, anti-aging creams, brightening essences, after-sun gels, and products designed for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Skin conditioning: Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate helps maintain the skin’s softness and flexibility by supporting its natural moisture balance. It is valued for its calming effect on redness and irritation, making formulas feel gentler on sensitive skin. The ingredient can also reinforce the skin’s barrier function, which helps reduce water loss and improve overall comfort.
Who Can Use Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate
Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including dry, oily, combination, sensitive and mature skin. Its soothing nature makes it especially helpful for easily irritated or redness-prone complexions. There are no known reasons to avoid it based on skin type alone.
The ingredient is plant derived from licorice root and contains no animal by-products so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when this ingredient is applied topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss any skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider before use just to be safe.
Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate does not cause photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays nicely with most other common cosmetic ingredients and does not interfere with sunscreen actives or antioxidant serums.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate vary from person to person. The following points list potential side effects although most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Transient itching on very sensitive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to licorice root components
- Rare interaction with highly alkaline products leading to momentary discomfort
If you do notice an adverse reaction stop using the product and seek medical guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic). Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate is a water-soluble salt with no oily, waxy or film-forming qualities so it does not block pores or trap sebum. It is typically used at very low concentrations, further reducing any clogging risk. Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Formulators often pair it with lightweight gels and serums aimed at blemish control, which complements its non-comedogenic nature.
Summary
Tripotassium Glycyrrhizate conditions skin by boosting moisture retention, soothing redness and supporting the natural barrier. It achieves this through anti-irritant properties borrowed from licorice root combined with the salt’s ability to dissolve easily in water-based formulas, letting it spread evenly over the skin. While not a blockbuster ingredient like hyaluronic acid, it enjoys steady popularity in calming toners, after-sun products and acne-friendly moisturizers because it quietly improves comfort without adding heaviness. Overall safety is high with very low rates of sensitivity or pore clogging, yet it is always wise to do a quick patch test when trying any new product just to be cautious.