Ingredient review
Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate
INCI: Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate
A gentle, dual-action ingredient that pairs vitamin B6 with a licorice root compound to help calm redness and support skin comfort.
In plain English
Pyridoxine glycyrrhetinate is a combination of two skin-friendly molecules: pyridoxine (a form of vitamin B6) and glycyrrhetinic acid (a compound from licorice root). In skincare, it works to reduce visible redness and irritation while helping the skin feel more comfortable. It is often used in products designed for sensitive or reactive skin because it is very gentle and unlikely to cause stinging or breakouts.
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
Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate 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 Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate.
- 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 salt formed by combining pyridoxine (vitamin B6) with glycyrrhetinic acid, a triterpenoid from licorice root. This pairing creates a water-soluble, skin-compatible compound that delivers both soothing and conditioning benefits.
How it works
Once applied, the glycyrrhetinate portion helps calm inflammatory signals in skin cells, reducing the appearance of redness and sensitivity. The pyridoxine component supports the skin's natural repair processes and may help strengthen the moisture barrier over time. Together, they provide a gentle, non-irritating way to improve skin comfort.
Pros
Gentle calming action
Helps soothe redness and irritation without causing stinging or dryness, making it ideal for sensitive skin routines.
Dual-function molecule
Combines the soothing power of licorice root with the skin-supporting properties of vitamin B6 in one stable ingredient.
Cons and cautions
Modest research depth
Most evidence comes from studies on its individual components rather than the combined salt, so the full range of benefits is less documented.
Lower potency than alternatives
For targeted anti-inflammatory needs, standalone glycyrrhetinic acid or other actives may offer stronger effects.
Best for
- People with sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Those looking for a gentle anti-redness ingredient in serums or moisturizers
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to licorice root or vitamin B6 compounds (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Pyridoxine glycyrrhetinate is considered safe for topical cosmetic use. It has a very low irritation and comedogenic profile, making it suitable for sensitive skin. As with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with known allergies to licorice root or vitamin B6.
Research notes
Research on the individual components (glycyrrhetinic acid and pyridoxine) supports anti-inflammatory and barrier-support effects. Direct studies on the salt form are limited but consistent with expected benefits. Overall evidence is moderate and positive for soothing applications.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use in most regions including the EU and US. Not a drug ingredient and not intended to treat medical conditions.
- Common uses
- Soothing serums, Calming moisturizers, Sensitive skin formulations, Post-procedure care
- Environmental note
- Synthesized from naturally derived starting materials; no known significant environmental concerns at typical cosmetic use levels.
Good to know
- This ingredient is water-soluble and works well in lightweight, non-greasy formulas.
- It is often used in products marketed for post-procedure or reactive skin.
Common questions
What is Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate in beauty products?
Pyridoxine glycyrrhetinate is a combination of two skin-friendly molecules: pyridoxine (a form of vitamin B6) and glycyrrhetinic acid (a compound from licorice root). In skincare, it works to reduce visible redness and irritation while helping the skin feel more comfortable. It is often used in products designed for sensitive or reactive skin because it is very gentle and unlikely to cause stinging or breakouts.
What does Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate do in a beauty product?
Once applied, the glycyrrhetinate portion helps calm inflammatory signals in skin cells, reducing the appearance of redness and sensitivity. The pyridoxine component supports the skin's natural repair processes and may help strengthen the moisture barrier over time. Together, they provide a gentle, non-irritating way to improve skin comfort.
Is Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate safe for most people?
Pyridoxine glycyrrhetinate is considered safe for topical cosmetic use. It has a very low irritation and comedogenic profile, making it suitable for sensitive skin. As with any ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with known allergies to licorice root or vitamin B6.
Who should be careful with Pyridoxine Glycyrrhetinate?
Individuals with a known allergy to licorice root or vitamin B6 compounds (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.