Licorice Extract For Skin: The Best Kept Hyperpigmentation Secret

Have you ever wondered what those oh-so-amazing Asian beauty products are made of? Well, turns out one of the main ingredients in some high-end skincare is actually licorice extract! Who would have thought that the main ingredient of the Twizzlers could be good for something other than satisfying your sweet tooth? Keep reading to discover the licorice benefits for skin.

What does licorice root do for your skin?

Are you an Asian skincare aficionado? We have good news for you, licorice root is one of the top ingredients in K-beauty and C-beauty skincare products! 

This root can be found in many skincare products today including creams, gels, and serums. Licorice extract is often used as a natural way to lighten skin tone. It can also help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging, turning licorice extract into the root of youth! 

Another benefit of licorice for skin is that it’s a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, which means it can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and help you to treat dark spots. 

So, If you're looking for an all-natural way to achieve brighter, more even-toned skin, then look no further than licorice root! 

Pros & Cons of licorice root extract for skin

Pros

• Reduction in inflammation and redness 
• Improvement in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines 
• Even skin tone 
• Hydration and moisturization 
• Protection from sun damage 

Cons

• It can take several weeks or even months to see any noticeable results 
• Some people may experience skin irritation when using products with licorice extract 

Licorice ingredients specifications

Clean
Licorice extract is not only safe for the skin but also suitable for all skin types. In fact, it's often used to treat various skin conditions, such as hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. 

Vegan
Good news for our vegan friends: most licorice ingredients are vegan-friendly. However, it's always best to check the ingredients list to be sure. Look for an extract that is made from glycyrrhiza glabra root, this type of licorice root is typically vegan.

Pregnancy safe
There are mixed reports on the safety of licorice extract during pregnancy. Some say that it is safe to use, while others recommend avoiding it altogether. Consult with your doctor before using licorice extract products.

Breastfeeding safe
Better safe than sorry! There is limited research on the safety of licorice extract during breastfeeding, so it's best to avoid using it until more is known.

Active ingredient
Active AF! Licorice extract is derived from the licorice plant, making it an active ingredient ready to lighten dark spots on the skin!

Comedogenic

Don’t worry! Licorice extract is non-comedogenic, which means it doesn’t clog pores. 

EWG (Environment Working Group) Score 

The EWG gives licorice extract a score of "low hazard" or 1. This means that there are few concerns associated with using this ingredient on your skin. 

CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) Rating: A

The CIR has rated licorice extract as safe for use in cosmetics. This means that licorice extract can be used in skincare products without any worries about safety.

PRECAUTIONS: Things to know before using licorice skin care products

Products containing licorice extract can be beneficial for your skin, however, you should always do a patch test first before using any product containing licorice extract on your entire face. 

When to use licorice root extract for skin?

If you have hyperpigmentation or dark spots on your skin, you can add products with licorice ingredients, like moisturizers or serums, twice a day. On the contrary, if you want to include it as a face mask, you can add them to your skincare routine once or twice a week. 

What skin type is licorice extract good for?

Licorice extract is said to be good for all skin types, but it is especially beneficial for those with sensitive or inflamed skin. 

What you can’t mix with licorice extract?

While licorice extract is generally considered safe for use in skincare products, there are a few ingredients that it shouldn't be mixed with. These include:

• Retinoids *especially if you have sensitive skin*: can increase the sensitivity of your skin to retinoids, so it's best to avoid using them together.
• Hydroquinone: This ingredient is often used to lighten dark spots on the skin, but mixing it with licorice extract can cause irritation and redness.

Top Picks 

Best Sellers 

1. Rose Galactomyces Silky Tone-Up Cream 40ml
2. Repair Serum with Ginseng and Snail Mucin
3. Benton Honest Cleansing Foam

$7 and under products with licorice extract

1. Tony Moly Master Lab Sheet  Mask Ceramide
2. Green Tea Airy Fit Sheet Mask
3. Ampoule Mask - Vita C

FAQ’s

You ask and we answer! Here are our most asked questions about licorice for skin

Depends on the product and the ingredients it is mixed with! But generally, you can use it twice a day.

OF COURSE! Licorice extract is a natural pigment inhibitor, so it can help to lighten dark spots and patches on the skin.

Stay away from retinoids and hydroquinone.

It can take a few weeks or months to see lightning results from using licorice extract on your skin. Be patient, it is worth it!

Tips & Tricks

Licorice extract can be found in almost all skincare products types, so you can add it at any point in your routine.  Here are our fave tips on how to use licorice extract products in your skincare regimen:

• Use licorice extract as part of your regular cleansing routine. 
• Apply licorice extract toner after cleansing. This will help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.
• As a moisturizer or serum, it can add an antioxidant boost to your routine.
• Use a licorice extract-based mask once or twice a week to deeply hydrate and nourish your skin.
  

Blogs

Learn more about Licorice, what is commonly thought of as the holy grail ingredient of skincare. Get your idol beauty reading on to hear more thoughts on this ingredient from our team and our community!

• 6 Licorice Root Benefits for Skin You Should Be Rooting For!