Full disclaimer, we’re not talking about the delicious squishy fluffy treats! For centuries, marshmallow root has been a highly revered ingredient in beauty routines. At the heart of this are its powerful anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties. These actions impart a number of hair and skin benefits that have made marshmallow root extract a hero skincare ingredient for beauty insiders worldwide. In this article, we explore the science behind marshmallow root and how to use it to boost the health and appearance of your skin and hair.
What is Marshmallow Root?
Marshmallow root is a herb derived from the Althaea officinalis plant. It is traditionally used in herbal medicine due to its rich mucilage content which gives it is soothing properties. This mucilage is a gel-like substance that becomes more potent when mixed with water. It’s also packed with antioxidants, vitamins and polysaccharides. These are responsible for the benefits of marshmallow root (either whole, in extract or powder form) to help with moisture retention, reducing irritation and protecting against environmental aggressors.
The benefits of Marshmallow root for skin and hair health come down to its unique composition. Its packed with polysaccharides, which help retain moisture. This makes it is especially effective for dry and sensitive skin and hair. The antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and reduce the effects of environmental damage. This make it a useful ingredient in anti-ageing formulations. Additionally, marshmallow root is a natural anti-inflammatory thus helps ease redness and irritation. This makes it a popular choice for people with eczema, psoriasis and other reactive skin conditions.
Benefits of Marshmallow Root for Skin
Although it has been an ancient beauty secret, Marshmallow root extract is actually finding its way to modern skincare routines. Although it is still not widely available in the UK, it is a very popular and common ingredient in Korean skincare. The main benefits of Marshmallow Root extract for skin include:
- Intensive Hydration & Moisture Retention: Marshmallow root works wonders for hydrating the skin. The mucilage in marshmallow root acts as a natural humectant. It draws water into the skin and creates a moisture-locking barrier that keeps skin supple and hydrated throughout the day. This deep hydration not only plumps up the skin but also helps to smooth fine lines and texture caused by dryness.
- Soothing for Sensitive Skin: One of the key benefits of marshmallow root for skin is its ability to soothe irritation. Its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce redness, swelling and discomfort. This makes it popular for skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis. It can also help calm the skin after procedures like waxing, laser and chemical peels. Best of all, marshmallow root is also gentle enough for individuals with highly reactive or sensitive skin.
- Powerful Anti-Ageing Effects: The antioxidants in marshmallow root fight free radicals which normally accelerate skin ageing. By neutralising these free radicals, marshmallow root helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. Furthermore, its hydrating properties increase skin elasticity making it look plumper, firmer and bouncier.
- Enhanced Skin Barrier Protection: The polysaccharides in marshmallow root create a protective barrier over the skin which helps protect it from pollution, UV radiation and other environmental aggressors. This barrier also assists in reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) thus helping the skin retain moisture more effectively. As a result, it reduces the likelihood of dryness and irritation.
- Improved Skin Texture & Tone: Thanks to its high mucilage content, marshmallow root can help smooth out uneven skin texture and soften the skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help even out the skin tone and brighten the complexion.
Benefits of Marshmallow Root for Hair
The benefits of marshmallow root extend to the scalp and hair. Whilst it is not a common ingredient in modern hair products, there is growing use of marshmallow root extract in this space. The main benefits of marshmallow root for hair include:
- Hydration & Softness for Dry Hair: Just as marshmallow root hydrates the skin, it also works wonders for dry, brittle hair. It’s also great for curly or textured hair. The mucilage content provides a conditioning effect that softens hair, making it easier to detangle and reducing frizz. As such marshmallow root moisturises the hair making it look smoother and shinier.
- Promotes Hair Growth & Scalp Health: Marshmallow root also supports scalp health, which is critical for hair growth. The anti-inflammatory properties can soothe scalp irritation while its antioxidants help combat oxidative stress that can damage hair follicles. This improves scalp health which optimises the environment for hair growth. As such regular use of marshmallow root can help make hair fuller and thicker.
- Strengthens Hair & Reduces Breakage: The mucilage in marshmallow root coats the hair shaft to add a protective layer that guards against breakage and split ends. By strengthening hair strands, marshmallow root helps maintain length and improve hair resilience. This makes it especially beneficial if you want to reduce hair damage from styling, heat or environmental exposure.
- Detangling Aid & Frizz Reduction: One of the unique properties of marshmallow root is its natural slip. This makes it an ideal detangler as it helps separate hair strands easily thus reducing tugging and breakage. For people with thick or curly hair, marshmallow root also reduces frizz which helps leaves hair smooth and well-defined.
Risks & Side Effects
Marshmallow root is generally well-tolerated and is often recommended for sensitive skin types. However, as with any ingredient, there’s always a risk you might not tolerate it. It is important to do a patch test before using to rule out any individual allergies or sensitivities. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or have any health problems you should consult with your healthcare provider first.
How to Use Marshmallow Root for Skin & Hair Care
There are actually a number of ways you can get the benefits of marshmallow root for your skin and hair. The easiest is buying skincare and hair products that already contain marshmallow root extract. Below are some of the main ways you can introduce marshmallow root into your beauty routine:
- Skincare Products: You can find marshmallow root in a number of skincare products these days. The best way to use it is in leave-in products like essences, toners, serums, creams or face masks. This will allow you to get the most out of its skin soothing and hydrating properties throughout the day. You can also easily layer marshmallow skincare products and use it alongside actives like Retinoids, exfoliating acids and Vitamin C.
- Hair Conditioners, Masks & Serums: If you want a deeply hydrating hair treatment, consider using hair conditioners and masks containing marshmallow root. You can also find marshmallow root extract in leave-in serums and conditioners which are especially great if you have very dry, damaged or curly hair.
You can also buy marshmallow root (either the whole root or in powder or extract form) and make your own beauty treatments if you are that way inclined! We wouldn’t recommend this if you have sensitive or reactive skin, scalp problems or hair loss. If you like making your own beauty products, here are the best ways to get the benefits of marshmallow root extract and powder:
- Marshmallow Root Skin Tonic: You can make a marshmallow root tonic by steeping marshmallow root powder or dried root in warm water. After cooling it, you can apply this tonic to clean dry skin as a hydrating and soothing leave-in treatment. You can also make a DIY mask by mixing marshmallow root with other nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera.
- Scalp & Hair Growth Treatment: For an everyday scalp-soothing treatment, mix marshmallow root extract with oils like jojoba, argan or castor oil. Massage this blend into your scalp to promote circulation. For a deep hair conditioning treatment, add marshmallow root powder to your regular conditioner or banana, avocado or egg yolks. Apply to freshly washed hair and rinse thoroughly after 10-15 minutes.
Marshmallow root, like Licorice, is a bridge between the ancient and modern worlds of beauty. It has a number of impressive skin and hair benefits and is widely tolerated by most people. You can easily add marshmallow root into your skincare and hair routine through pre-made beauty products or even by making your own! So keep this power-house ingredient in mind whether you’re looking to to hydrate and protect your skin or revive dry and damaged hair strands!
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare. Through our online skin clinic, our doctors offer safe and effective treatments using ingredients like Tretinoin and Hydroquinone where appropriate. We treat a range of skin conditions including acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma and skin ageing. To start your personalised skincare plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
