Why Marshmallow Root Extract Deserves a Spot in Your Skincare Routine
- Kaye's Beauty
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Marshmallow root extract has been steadily gaining attention in the beauty world. And no, it’s not the sugary treat we associate with s’mores, but a plant-derived ingredient packed with skin benefits. Interestingly, the marshmallows we eat today are no longer made from the marshmallow plant—they’ve long since been replaced by gelatin. So why is this botanical suddenly back in focus? The answer lies in a renewed interest in its skincare potential, even though its soothing and restorative properties have been recognized by herbal traditions for centuries.
Marshmallow Root Extract
Category: Anti-inflammatory botanical
Key Benefits: Calms redness, reduces irritation, and supports skin hydration
Ideal For: Individuals with sensitive or reactive skin
Recommended Use: Up to twice daily
Best Paired With: Formulas that could otherwise be harsh on the skin
Avoid If: Taken as an oral supplement, it may lower blood sugar and is not recommended for those with diabetes
To know more on skincare ingredients shop our skincare ingredients dictionary on Amazon. Click here to shop.
Download our skincare ingredient scanner app from the google play store. Scan the ingredients at the back of the pack and know which ingredients are good or bad for your skin. Click here to download.
What is Marshmallow Root Extract?
Marshmallow root extract (MRE) is derived from the Althaea plant, which is native to Northern Africa, Europe, and Western Asia. The root contains a thick, gummy substance known as mucilage, along with beneficial compounds like polysaccharides and flavonoids. Traditionally, it has been used in herbal medicine to ease irritation and inflammation in the body and to provide soothing benefits for the skin.
Benefits of Marshmallow Root Extract for Skin
Marshmallow root extract offers notable anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm irritation while hydrating the skin. Traditionally used to soothe burns and insect bites, modern research has shown that it also possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. These qualities have led to its inclusion in a growing number of skincare formulations, where it is often highlighted as a hero ingredient for sensitive or stressed skin.
For regular use, applying it twice daily is considered safe, although extensive studies are still limited. Its soothing properties make it especially effective in eye care products, where it helps maintain moisture, reduce sensitivity, and target visible signs of aging without causing irritation.
Side Effects of Marshmallow Root Extract
Topical use of marshmallow root extract is generally considered safe, with no known negative side effects. When taken orally, however, it may lower blood sugar levels and should be approached cautiously by those with diabetes.
How to Use It
Thanks to its calming, hydrating nature, marshmallow root extract is particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like eczema, rosacea, or easily irritated skin. It is especially well-suited for the delicate under-eye area, where it can provide both immediate soothing effects and long-term moisture retention. While powerful on its own, it also complements many other common skincare ingredients, making it easy to incorporate into an existing routine without disruption.
The Best Products With Marshmallow Root Extract
This much-loved cleanser helps improve the appearance of uneven texture and redness. Infused with marshmallow extract, it delivers hydration, softness, and balance to the skin, while other powerhouse ingredients like glycolic acid and chamomile enhance its benefits. Because of its strength, it’s not designed for daily use—skincare experts suggest limiting application to two or three times a week, and even less often if you have especially sensitive skin. Click here to buy.
Effective botanical skincare isn’t limited to luxury labels or all-natural brands. Fourth Ray Beauty, the skincare sibling of ColourPop, brings the same “quality at accessible prices” philosophy to its products. Their face milk blends strawberry seed, lotus, and almond oils with strawberry extract to deliver deep nourishment in a lightweight formula. Just a few drops are enough to soothe, soften, and condition the skin. Click here to buy.
In beauty, it’s rare to find a product that consistently sells out—except for these under-eye patches from Peter Thomas Roth, which are always in high demand. Packed with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and marshmallow root, they deliver an instant boost of hydration and softness, making them ideal for mornings when your skin feels dry and depleted. Plus, with the added benefit of caffeine, they help reduce puffiness and revive tired eyes. Click here to buy.
FAQ
What is marshmallow root extract?
Marshmallow root extract (MRE) is derived from the Althaea plant, native to Northern Africa, Europe, and Western Asia. The root contains a thick, soothing substance called mucilage, along with compounds like polysaccharides and flavonoids that support overall skin health.
What is marshmallow root extract good for?
It helps calm redness, ease inflammation, and lock in moisture. This makes it especially beneficial for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
How often can you use marshmallow root extract in skincare?
It can typically be used up to twice a day as part of a regular skincare routine.
Kaye's Beauty Book is here to help you choose better products that suit your skin, hair and lifestyle. All of the products mentioned are carefully researched and selected to ensure that the most credible information comes to you. If you do buy a product from one of our links, Kaye's Beauty Book may earn a commission.
II DISCLAIMER: Every skin is different, not everything works for everybody. I recommend you test the product before completely using any new product. II