Ingredient review
Licorice Callus Extract
INCI: Glycyrrhiza Glabra Callus Culture Extract
A lab-grown licorice extract that helps calm irritation and defend against environmental stress without the variability of field-grown plants.
In plain English
This ingredient is made by growing licorice plant cells in a controlled lab environment, then extracting their beneficial compounds. It's a more sustainable and consistent alternative to traditional licorice root extract. In skincare, it works as an antioxidant to protect skin from damage and as a soothing agent to reduce redness and irritation. Because it's produced in a lab, it avoids pesticides and seasonal variations, making it a reliable choice for sensitive skin formulas.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
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
- biotech
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Licorice Callus Extract 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 Licorice Callus Extract.
- 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
A biotech-derived extract from the callus (undifferentiated plant cells) of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra). It contains active compounds like glabridin and licochalcone, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
How it works
The extract's compounds neutralize free radicals that can damage skin cells, and they inhibit enzymes involved in inflammation, helping to calm redness and irritation. It may also support a more even skin tone by interfering with melanin production pathways.
Pros
Sustainable sourcing
Lab-grown callus culture avoids the environmental impact of harvesting wild licorice plants and ensures a consistent, pesticide-free supply.
Gentle soothing
The extract's anti-inflammatory compounds can help calm redness and irritation without the potential irritation of some other active ingredients.
Cons and cautions
Limited research on callus form
Most studies on licorice's skin benefits use traditional root extract, so the specific callus culture version has less direct evidence.
Potentially lower potency
Depending on the cultivation and extraction process, the concentration of active compounds may be lower than in a standardized root extract.
Best for
- People with sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Those looking for a gentle antioxidant to complement their routine
- Anyone interested in sustainable, lab-grown skincare ingredients
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or plants in the Fabaceae family
Usage tips
Safety summary
Licorice callus extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or allergy. As with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Research notes
While traditional licorice root extract has strong evidence for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, the callus culture version is a newer innovation with fewer direct studies. Early research suggests it retains similar active compounds, but more human trials are needed to confirm efficacy.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in concentrations up to 2% in the EU and US. No specific restrictions.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Eye creams, Brightening treatments
- Environmental note
- Lab-grown callus culture reduces pressure on wild licorice populations and avoids agricultural runoff, making it a more eco-friendly choice.
Good to know
- Callus culture technology allows for year-round production without soil or pesticides.
- This ingredient is often used in formulations for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Common questions
What is Licorice Callus Extract in beauty products?
This ingredient is made by growing licorice plant cells in a controlled lab environment, then extracting their beneficial compounds. It's a more sustainable and consistent alternative to traditional licorice root extract. In skincare, it works as an antioxidant to protect skin from damage and as a soothing agent to reduce redness and irritation. Because it's produced in a lab, it avoids pesticides and seasonal variations, making it a reliable choice for sensitive skin formulas.
What does Licorice Callus Extract do in a beauty product?
The extract's compounds neutralize free radicals that can damage skin cells, and they inhibit enzymes involved in inflammation, helping to calm redness and irritation. It may also support a more even skin tone by interfering with melanin production pathways.
Is Licorice Callus Extract safe for most people?
Licorice callus extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation or allergy. As with any new ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Who should be careful with Licorice Callus Extract?
Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or plants in the Fabaceae family
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.