Quick answer
Plant with soothing, redness-reducing properties; Also works as a lightweight emollient; Helps offset negative impact of enzymes that degrade hyaluronic acid; Also known as marshmallow root Key benefits: Anti-Aging, Soothing.
Althaea Officinalis Root Extract
Updated
Althaea Officinalis Root Extract is an extract of the roots of the Marsh Mallow, Althaea officinalis L., Malvaceae
Purpose
This soothing plant also helps visibly repair damaged skin and provides light emollient properties.
Rating
BEST
Category
Plant Extracts, Antioxidant
INCI Purpose
SKIN CONDITIONING
Benefits
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Plant with soothing, redness-reducing properties
Also works as a lightweight emollient
Helps offset negative impact of enzymes that degrade hyaluronic acid
Also known as marshmallow root
Article
Althaea officinalis root extract is a soothing, lightly emollient plant extract that’s been shown to offset the rise of enzymes within skin that, left unchecked, break down hyaluronic acid. As such, it can also be said that this plant helps maintain skin’s hydration.
The mucilage (a gelatinous fluid) of this plant contains skin-smoothing polysaccharides including glucuronic acid, rhamnose and galactose. Usage levels in cosmetics range from 1–5% when in solution with ingredients such as glycerin or various glycols. In such a blend, approximately 2–5% is Althaea officinalis root, meaning it doesn’t take much to get visible results from this plant.
Along with documented soothing benefits, Althaea officinalis root has also been shown to interrupt oxidative damage generated within skin after exposure to UVA light, although this benefit varied based on how the plant was grown and cultivated.
As an interesting aside unrelated to cosmetics, the root of this plant has been used internally to relieve a dry cough resulting from mucosal/throat irritation. Althaea officinalis root extract is considered safe for use on skin.
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