Skin Conditioning

Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Powder

INCI: GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA ROOT POWDER

Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

A plant-derived conditioning agent traditionally used to support skin repair and comfort

Best For Skin Types

All, Sensitive, Dry

Addresses

Sensitivity, Redness, Dryness, Barrier repair

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Powder?

Glycyrrhiza glabra root powder is derived from the licorice plant, a perennial native to Western Asia and the Mediterranean. The root has been used in traditional medicine systems for centuries, and in skincare, it functions primarily as a skin conditioning agent.

In formulations, the powdered form provides both active compounds and textural properties. The root contains several bioactive constituents, including flavonoids and polysaccharides, which are thought to contribute to its conditioning effects on the skin.

How It Works

Licorice root's active constituents are believed to work through multiple pathways. The polysaccharides can form a hydrating film on the skin's surface, whilst flavonoids and glycyrrhizin (a key compound) may exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects at the cellular level.

The powder form also adds a mild abrasive quality when incorporated into exfoliating or cleansing products, though the primary benefit in most skincare formulations is skin conditioning rather than mechanical action.

Clinical Evidence & References

Research into licorice root extract shows promise in wound-healing contexts. Studies in animal models have demonstrated accelerated closure of thermal injuries when hydrogels containing licorice extract were applied topically, with lower concentrations (around 5%) showing particularly notable results in some trials.

However, most published work focuses on extract forms in clinical wound settings rather than cosmetic concentrations in finished products. Evidence for routine skincare benefit in humans remains limited, and more research is needed to establish efficacy at typical cosmetic use levels.

How to Use

Licorice root powder is most commonly found in masks, exfoliants, and conditioning formulations. As it is a powder, it works well in dry or rinse-off products. When used in leave-on products, it is typically combined with hydrating or soothing ingredients to maximise its skin-conditioning effect. There is no established threshold for daily use; follow the product instructions.

Safety & Precautions

Generally well-tolerated by most skin types. Rare cases of contact sensitivity have been reported. Those with a known allergy to plants in the Fabaceae family should exercise caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Part of a family

Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Powder is a variant of Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.

A plant extract traditionally used to address uneven skin tone and soothe irritation

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