What is Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate?
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate, also known as licorice root extract, is a filtrate of an extract derived from the roots of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, a member of the Fabaceae family, and sucrose. This extract is rich in beneficial compounds such as glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and saponins, which contribute to its antioxidant, skin conditioning, and emollient properties.
The use of Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice, in skincare dates back to ancient civilizations. The Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans recognized the plant’s medicinal properties and incorporated it into their skincare routines. Today, it is a popular ingredient in cosmetic products due to its ability to improve skin health and appearance.
The production of Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate involves a process of spontaneous fermentation. The roots of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant are combined with sucrose and allowed to ferment naturally. The resulting extract is then filtered to produce a filtrate that is ready for use in cosmetic formulations.
While there are other plant-based extracts used in cosmetics, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate stands out due to its unique combination of antioxidant, skin conditioning, and emollient properties. It is similar to other extracts in that it is derived from a natural source and undergoes a fermentation process, but its specific benefits and uses can vary.
Typically, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate is found in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant properties help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, while its skin conditioning and emollient properties help to improve skin texture and hydration. As such, it is a versatile ingredient that can contribute to the overall effectiveness of a skincare product.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate:
Antioxidant Properties
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate is recognized for its antioxidant properties. In simple terms, antioxidants are substances that help protect our skin cells from damage. They do this by neutralizing harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage the cells in our body. This damage is often a contributing factor to aging and various diseases. By using products containing this ingredient, you are providing your skin with an extra layer of protection against these harmful molecules.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother and softer. It achieves this by increasing the skin’s hydration, reducing roughness, and improving the overall appearance of the skin. So, if you’re looking for a product that can help to improve the texture and appearance of your skin, this ingredient could be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine.
Emollient
The third official function of this ingredient is as an emollient. Emollients are substances that help to moisturize the skin by reducing water loss from the outer layer of the skin. They form a protective layer on the skin’s surface, which helps to lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated. This can be particularly beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin, as it can help to prevent dryness and irritation.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, should be considered with caution.
Safety Profile
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for everyone and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Potential side effects of topical application of this ingredient include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical usage of Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root/Sucrose Ferment Extract Filtrate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Side effects or adverse reactions from this ingredient are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and other various publicly available sources.
