Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Powder
What is Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Powder?
Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Powder is derived from the finely ground roots of the licorice plant, native to parts of Europe and Asia, and is rich in bioactive compounds like glabridin, liquiritin, and glycyrrhizin. In skincare, it serves as a natural source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, often used in formulations for brightening, soothing, and protecting the skin. The powder form allows for gentle exfoliation while delivering humectant properties to hydrate and balance skin tone.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Skin protecting
Forms a barrier to protect skin from external irritants.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Tonic
Supports a light, toning after-feel—often combining mild astringency, refreshing solvents, and humectants—to prep skin and refine sensory finish.
Soothing
Helps reduce the feeling of discomfort and visible irritation by supporting skin calmness, often through anti-irritant, barrier-supporting, or cooling mechanisms.
Antioxidant
Slows oxidation of oils, fragrances, and sensitive actives to improve shelf life and reduce rancidity or color change; sometimes also supports skin protection from oxidative stress.
Antimicrobial agent
Helps limit growth of bacteria and other microbes on skin or in the formula; may be used for product protection, odor control, or targeted antimicrobial effects.