4 Surprising Benefits of Marshmallow Root for Skin

How can marshmallows, the delicious but sticky, sugary treats have any possible skincare benefits? 

Well, those aren’t the marshmallows we are talking about but they are definitely related. 

The marshmallows that we use as topping for hot cocoa get their name from marshmallow root, an ancient medicinal remedy with healing benefits.

The marshmallow plant (Althaea Officinalis) is native to Europe, North Africa, and some parts of West Asia as well. For thousands of years, its roots and leaves have been used as a folk medicine to treat cough, digestive ailments, and even some skin problems.

These roots were also used in the original marshmallow dessert (hence the name) before being replaced by gelatin. But now, the ingredient has found its way into skincare due to its incredible skincare benefits.

Skincare Benefits of Marshmallow Root Extract

• 1. Hydrates the skin.

Marshmallow roots can be a plant-based alternative to snail mucin in skincare. The roots have a thick, gum-like substance called mucilage which is a natural humectant. So just like hyaluronic acid, marshmallow root helps improve skin hydration levels by attracting and retaining moisture. Along with mucilage, the root also has some polysaccharides which can help improve the plumpness, elasticity, and softness of your skin. So it is quite beneficial for people with dry, mature skin.

• 2. Soothes irritated skin

If your skin is prone to redness and irritation or is sensitive by nature, marshmallow root extract can be your skin saviour. It shows a strong anti-inflammatory effect on the skin which can help you deal with irritated skin.

If you have eczema, dermatitis, rosacea, or even a sunburn, applying a formulation with marshmallow extract will help soothe your skin and even reduce the redness associated with such conditions.

• 3. Heals wounds faster

Althea in Greek means “to heal” and that’s how this root got its botanical name. It was traditionally used in remedies for healing wounds. Along with its anti-inflammatory properties, the root also shows some antibacterial activity. So it can speed up the time taken by your skin to heal wounds, insect bites and small burns as well.

• 4. Protects from environmental stressors.

A study shows that Marshmallow extract also has the potential to protect your skin from damage induced by UV radiation which also results in photoaging. It has phytochemicals like flavonoids which reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and reduce DNA damage caused by UVA rays from the sun. 

Where To Find It?

Marshmallow root extract is a beautiful ingredient for hydrating, soothing, and protecting your skin and can be found in some skincare formulations. It is one of the key ingredients in our Glowy Skin Phytomolecular Serumizer. This high-performance serum+moisturizer is Ecocert Cosmos Organic Certified and has everything your skin needs to stay hydrated, protected and nourished all day long.

It has 22 high-performance ingredients including tri-rice actives, marshmallow and licorice root extracts, antioxidant-rich berry oils, aloe vera juice and saccharide isomerate.

This potent serum will also lighten pigmentation, soothe irritation, protect against pollution and blue light damage, and fight dullness to boost skin radiance. 

TGM Beauty Glowy Skin Phytomolecular Serumizer is now available at flat 30% off. You also get an additional 5% off on order value above Rs.1000/- and 10% off on order value above Rs.1500/-. Shop here.