Benefits Of Marshmallow Root Extract​

Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract is a cushiony, water-soluble botanical prized for its naturally high mucilage—silky polysaccharides that form a soft, hydrating film. In shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and soap/syndet bars, it adds instant slip for detangling, boosts a soothed, comforted feel on skin and scalp, and helps textures glide without tack. Think plush, frizz-friendly combability and a calm, moisturized after-feel—minus heaviness or strong scent.

The Marshmallow Impact

How marshmallow root adds silky slip and soothing comfort—without weight.

What is Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract?

What is Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract?

What does marshmallow root extract do for skin?

Its mucilage delivers an instant cushioning feel, helps reduce the sensation of tightness, and gives a soft-focus, hydrated finish. The film-forming sugars support barrier comfort and pair well with humectants to reduce TEWL (water loss).

How does it help hair and scalp?

It provides excellent slip and detangling, reducing snagging and breakage on wet hair. On the scalp, it offers a calm, lightly hydrated feel and improves product spreadability in shampoos/leave-ins.

Is marshmallow root good for curly or coily hair?

Yes—its slip + soft film help clump curls, enhance definition, and tamp down frizz without greasy weight. Great in leave-ins, curl creams, and co-washes.

Marshmallow root vs. aloe vs. panthenol—what’s the difference?

- Marshmallow: mucilage-driven slip and surface cushioning.
- Aloe: watery humectant + soothing with a cooler feel.
- Panthenol: humectant that adds shine and combability.

Will it clog pores or feel sticky?

It’s non-oily and non-comedogenic. Properly formulated, it leaves a silky, non-tacky finish—especially when balanced with lightweight emollients (e.g., squalane, CCT).

Is Althaea Officinalis Root Extract safe for sensitive skin?

Generally well-tolerated and used in gentle formulas. Choose fragrance-light products and patch test if you’re highly reactive or have plant sensitivities.

Does it help with frizz and tangles?

Yes—the mucilage forms a slippery micro-film that improves combability, cuts friction, and smooths the cuticle so hair looks shinier and more manageable.

Which ingredients pair well with marshmallow?

- Skin: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, niacinamide, squalane, ceramides, allantoin.
- Hair: behentrimonium methosulfate (BTMS), cetrimonium chloride, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, panthenol, hydrolyzed rice/oat protein, camellia/jojoba oils.

INCI name and how to spot it on labels

Look for INCI: Althaea Officinalis Root Extract (sometimes “Marshmallow Root Extract”). It often appears alongside humectants, conditioning quats, and light oils in soothing/ detangling formulas.

Have any other questions about marshmallow root extract in our products?