Ingredient review
Disodium Glycyrrhizate
INCI: Disodium Glycyrrhizate
A gentle, plant-derived soother that helps calm redness and irritation without clogging pores.
In plain English
Disodium glycyrrhizate is a salt form of a compound found in licorice root. In skincare, it works like a gentle fire extinguisher for your skin — it helps reduce redness, calm irritation, and soothe sensitivity. Because it's water-soluble and very mild, it's often used in products for reactive or acne-prone skin. Think of it as a calming sidekick that doesn't interfere with other active ingredients.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- natural
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Disodium Glycyrrhizate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Disodium Glycyrrhizate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
Disodium glycyrrhizate is the disodium salt of glycyrrhizic acid, a key active compound extracted from the root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra). It is a white to off-white powder that dissolves easily in water and is widely used in cosmetics for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
How it works
Disodium glycyrrhizate works by inhibiting enzymes involved in the inflammatory cascade, such as phospholipase A2 and cyclooxygenase. This reduces the production of pro-inflammatory molecules like prostaglandins. On the skin, this translates to less redness, swelling, and irritation. It also has mild antioxidant activity, helping to protect skin from environmental stressors.
Pros
Gentle and well-tolerated
Disodium glycyrrhizate has a very low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it safe for even the most sensitive skin types, including those prone to acne or rosacea.
Backed by traditional use
Licorice root has been used for centuries in herbal medicine for its soothing properties, and modern research supports its anti-inflammatory effects in skincare.
Cons and cautions
Mild effect
While effective for mild redness and irritation, disodium glycyrrhizate may not be strong enough to calm severe inflammatory skin conditions on its own.
Limited standalone benefit
It works best as part of a broader soothing formulation; using it alone may not provide dramatic results for all skin concerns.
Best for
- People with sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Those with redness or rosacea-prone skin
- Anyone looking for a gentle soothing ingredient in their routine
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or its derivatives (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Disodium glycyrrhizate is considered very safe for topical use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant side effects have been reported in cosmetic concentrations. Allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Research notes
Multiple in vitro and clinical studies support the anti-inflammatory and soothing effects of glycyrrhizic acid derivatives. A 2010 study in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that disodium glycyrrhizate reduced UVB-induced inflammation in human skin. However, more large-scale human trials are needed to confirm its efficacy compared to other soothing agents.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics globally, including by the FDA (as a generally recognized safe ingredient) and the EU CosIng database. No concentration restrictions are typically imposed.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Toners, Masks, Sunscreens
- Environmental note
- Licorice root is a renewable plant resource, but overharvesting can be a concern. Look for brands that source sustainably or use biotech-derived alternatives.
Good to know
- Disodium glycyrrhizate is different from glycyrrhetinic acid, which is oil-soluble and can be more potent but also more irritating.
- It is often used in post-procedure skincare to help calm skin after treatments like chemical peels or microdermabrasion.
Common questions
What is Disodium Glycyrrhizate in beauty products?
Disodium glycyrrhizate is a salt form of a compound found in licorice root. In skincare, it works like a gentle fire extinguisher for your skin — it helps reduce redness, calm irritation, and soothe sensitivity. Because it's water-soluble and very mild, it's often used in products for reactive or acne-prone skin. Think of it as a calming sidekick that doesn't interfere with other active ingredients.
What does Disodium Glycyrrhizate do in a beauty product?
Disodium glycyrrhizate works by inhibiting enzymes involved in the inflammatory cascade, such as phospholipase A2 and cyclooxygenase. This reduces the production of pro-inflammatory molecules like prostaglandins. On the skin, this translates to less redness, swelling, and irritation. It also has mild antioxidant activity, helping to protect skin from environmental stressors.
Is Disodium Glycyrrhizate safe for most people?
Disodium glycyrrhizate is considered very safe for topical use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant side effects have been reported in cosmetic concentrations. Allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Who should be careful with Disodium Glycyrrhizate?
Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or its derivatives (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.