Glycyrrhizinic Acid

What is Glycyrrhizinic Acid?

Glycyrrhizic acid is a naturally occurring triterpenoid saponin glycoside derived from the roots of the licorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra, native to parts of Europe and Asia. This water-soluble compound is widely incorporated into skincare formulations such as moisturizers, lotions, serums, and oral care products. In these applications, it primarily serves as a humectant by attracting and binding moisture to the skin's surface layers, helping to prevent dryness. As a skin conditioning agent, it supports the skin's barrier function, contributing to a softer and more supple texture. Its mild sweet taste and aroma also make it suitable for flavoring and fragrancing in lip balms and toothpastes, enhancing the sensory appeal without overpowering other ingredients. Typical concentrations remain low to leverage its multifunctional properties effectively.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Flavoring agent
Adds or adjusts taste and aroma in oral care and lip products, improving user acceptance while complementing the overall sensory profile.
Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Humectant
Attracts and holds water in the stratum corneum, boosting hydration and plumpness; commonly used in moisturizers, cleansers, and hair conditioners.

Benefits

Supports skin hydration by drawing moisture to the surface.

Promotes skin softness and flexibility for a smoother feel.

Adds pleasant flavor and scent to oral and lip products.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking extra hydration in daily moisturizers.
Those with known allergies to licorice or Fabaceae family plants.
People looking for gentle conditioning in sensitive skin formulas.
People sensitive to saponin-based ingredients.
Users of oral care products desiring natural flavor enhancement.
Individuals using high-potency licorice extracts elsewhere.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG, indicating minimal health concerns in cosmetics.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glycyrrhizinic Acid

What is glycyrrhizic acid derived from?

It comes from the roots of the licorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra.

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

Yes, it has a low safety rating from authoritative reviews for cosmetic applications.

Does it clog pores?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of 0.