Ingredient review
Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate
INCI: METHYLSILANOL GLYCYRRHIZINATE
A gentle, hybrid ingredient that combines the soothing power of licorice root with the skin-conditioning benefits of silicon, ideal for sensitive or redness-prone skin.
In plain English
Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by attaching a silicon compound to glycyrrhizinic acid, which comes from licorice root. In skincare, it helps calm redness and irritation while also supporting the skin's moisture barrier. The silicon part gives it a smooth, silky feel on the skin and may help other ingredients absorb better. It's often found in products for sensitive or reactive skin because it's very gentle and unlikely to cause breakouts or stinging.
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
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate 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 Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate.
- 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 semi-synthetic compound formed by chemically bonding methylsilanol (a silicon derivative) with glycyrrhizinic acid (a key active from licorice root). This combination aims to deliver the anti-inflammatory benefits of licorice in a more stable, skin-friendly form that also provides a smooth, silky texture.
How it works
The glycyrrhizinate portion inhibits enzymes that trigger inflammation, helping to calm redness and irritation. The methylsilanol component supports the skin's barrier function and improves the delivery of the active into the skin. Together, they create a soothing effect while also providing a light, non-greasy feel that can help other skincare ingredients work better.
Pros
Gentle soothing
Helps calm redness and irritation without stinging or drying, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.
Barrier support
The silicon component helps reinforce the skin's moisture barrier, reducing water loss and improving overall skin comfort.
Cons and cautions
Moderate evidence
While promising, the research on this specific hybrid ingredient is not as extensive as for more established soothing agents like niacinamide.
Potential for lower potency
The combination may dilute the anti-inflammatory effect compared to using pure glycyrrhizinic acid, so results may be milder.
Best for
- People with sensitive or reactive skin
- Those dealing with redness or mild inflammation
- Anyone looking for a gentle anti-aging ingredient
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to licorice or silicon compounds
- Those seeking very strong anti-inflammatory effects (may need higher concentrations of pure actives)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in available literature.
Research notes
Research on this specific compound is limited but suggests it has anti-inflammatory and barrier-supporting properties. Most evidence comes from studies on its components (glycyrrhizinic acid and methylsilanol) rather than the hybrid itself. More clinical studies are needed to fully confirm its efficacy.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. Generally recognized as safe at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Eye creams, Anti-aging formulations
- Environmental note
- The silicon component is synthetic, but the ingredient is used in low concentrations, so its environmental impact is minimal.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in products labeled for sensitive or reactive skin.
- It is not the same as pure licorice extract; the silicon modification changes its feel and stability.
Common questions
What is Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate in beauty products?
Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by attaching a silicon compound to glycyrrhizinic acid, which comes from licorice root. In skincare, it helps calm redness and irritation while also supporting the skin's moisture barrier. The silicon part gives it a smooth, silky feel on the skin and may help other ingredients absorb better. It's often found in products for sensitive or reactive skin because it's very gentle and unlikely to cause breakouts or stinging.
What does Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate do in a beauty product?
The glycyrrhizinate portion inhibits enzymes that trigger inflammation, helping to calm redness and irritation. The methylsilanol component supports the skin's barrier function and improves the delivery of the active into the skin. Together, they create a soothing effect while also providing a light, non-greasy feel that can help other skincare ingredients work better.
Is Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate safe for most people?
Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in available literature.
Who should be careful with Methylsilanol Glycyrrhizinate?
Individuals with known allergies to licorice or silicon compounds Those seeking very strong anti-inflammatory effects (may need higher concentrations of pure actives)
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.