What it is
Althaea Rosea Root Extract is derived from the roots of hollyhock, a tall flowering plant in the mallow family. Mallow-family roots are rich in mucilaginous polysaccharides, and the extract is used in cosmetics as a soothing, film-forming conditioning ingredient that contributes a soft, hydrated feel. It generally appears at low levels and does not act as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
Hollyhock root extract is generally well tolerated and is chosen for its soothing, mucilaginous character. Sensitization is uncommon but possible in predisposed individuals. It is water-soluble rather than an oil and is not considered comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; an extract of the roots of hollyhock (Althaea rosea, also classified as Alcea rosea), a mallow-family plant.
Questions everyone asks
What is hollyhock?
It is a tall flowering plant in the mallow family; its mucilage-rich roots are used to make this soothing extract.
What does it do in a formula?
It acts as a soothing, hydrating skin-conditioning botanical, not as a UV filter.