written by: Allison Goins, Ph.D. | Published on January 2nd, 2024 at 12:00 pm
Dark spots got you down? Enter licorice root extract, nature’s secret weapon for radiant skin. Rising concerns with hyperpigmentation and acne has been identified as one of the major driving factors for the anticipated 6% growth in the beauty industry over the next ten years. This ancient herb boasts science-backed benefits like fading hyperpigmentation, soothing acne, and even fighting aging. If you are looking to add natural ingredients to your routine – let’s explore licorice root benefits for skin, which can be a natural way to address your skincare concerns.
Licorice root stands out because it offers a spectrum of benefits that can elevate your skincare routine. So whether you are familiar with licorice root or have never heard of it before, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the science-backed licorice root benefits for skin, and if you should incorporate it into your skincare routine. The licorice root benefits for skin described in this article are based on the results of peer-reviewed publications of clinical trials.
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About Licorice | Licorice in Traditional Medicine | Hyperpigementation | Acne Prone Skin | Product Recommendations
About the Author: Allison has a Ph.D. in materials science in engineering with a concentration in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, She’s fascinated by the intricate dance between skincare ingredients and our skin cells. Her research focused on cell-material interactions and fueled her passion for exploring natural ingredients like licorice root extract.
What is Licorice Root?
There are over 30 species of licorice. However, the most common form of licorice root in skincare is scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is a perennial herb widely dispersed across various regions, including Italy, Spain, Turkey, the Caucasus, western China, and Central Asia. It shows up on the ingredients list of a product as Glycyrrhiza glabra or Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract and is known for being rich in compounds and flavonoids.
Licorice boasts around 400 isolated compounds, with approximately 300 being flavonoids (a popular category of antioxidants in skincare). Glabridin, a prominent flavonoid, steals the show, constituting 0.08 percent to 0.35 percent of the root’s dry weight. This compound, along with other flavonoids, forms the foundation for licorice root’s skin-transformative abilities.
Licorice Root in Traditional Medicine
Beyond skincare, licorice root comes from traditional medicine systems. In several ancient Indian medical systems like Aryuveda and Siddha, it serves as a purgative, ulcer-protecting, anti-tussive, and expectorant medication. Notably, Glycyrrhiza root extract is even used as an eye drop to treat conjunctivitis in India.
Licorice Root Skin Benefits: A Closer Look
Hyperpigmentation? Say goodbye! The Most Popular of the Licorice Root Skin Benefits
Licorice root’s natural compounds work wonders in addressing hyperpigmentation. Bid farewell to uneven skin tone as licorice root gently brightens dark spots, revealing a complexion that radiates vitality. Glabridin and Liquiritin are both flavonoids in licorice root that have clinical evidence to support their ability to combat hyperpigmentation.
Related Post: What Causes Hyperpigmentation: The Science Behind Clearer Skin
Studies reveal that Glabridin combats hyperpigmentation by acting as a tyrosinase inhibitor, a key enzyme in melanin production. Liquiritin, another flavonoid in licorice, also can help with hyperpigmentation by dispersing melanin after its production. Preventing the melanin from grouping up means it will not become a visible pigmented mark on your skin. In one clinical study licorice root extract was compared to hydroquinone and a comparable improvement in skin tone evenness was seen in both groups.
Oily skin and acne giving you grief? Licorice root’s got your back.
For those grappling with acne, licorice root can also be an ally in your battle. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated skin, while antimicrobial elements can help combat acne-causing bacteria, promoting clearer skin. It will not be able to eliminate your acne totally, but it could be an ally in a well-rounded skincare routine to combat acne.
It can also help with acne-prone skin and oily skin by helping regulate sebum production. Sebum is naturally produced by our skin cells to protect the skin, however, when it is produced in excess it can clog your pores and lead to more acne. Ingredients that control sebum production like licorice root extract and squalane can help reduce acne by keeping your pores clear.
Related Post: Squalane’s Benefits, Do You Need It In Your Routine?
So, how do you get this botanical wonder into your routine?
The best way is to look for licorice root extract in your skincare products. It plays nicely with most ingredients, making it easy to incorporate into your existing routine. You really want to look for it in leave-on products like serums or moisturizers, so that it has the maximum amount of contact time to work its magic.
Ready to try it? Here are a few licorice root-infused gems worth giving a try
Topicals Faded Serum for Dark Spots & Discoloration
This is a potent product packed with a bunch of great brightening ingredients. It not only has licorice root extract but also tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and alpha arbutin. Although this serum is on the pricier side of the options it contains the most active ingredients to combat hyperpigmentation.
NATURIUM Tranexamic Topical Acid 5%
This is another serum that combines licorice root with tranexamic acid, two hyperpigmentation powerhouses, for double the brightening power.
VERSED Stroke of Brilliance Brightening Serum
This a budget-friendly option to introduce licorice root into your skincare routine and get the licorice root skin benefits. It delivers a gentle dose of licorice root alongside vitamin C for a radiant glow. This is a great serum to purchase for everyday use if you want to maintain an even skin tone and there is not any stubborn hyperpigmentation you are trying to target.
e.l.f Blemish Breakthrough Triple-Acid Resurfacing Serum
A great choice for oily and acne-prone skin, this serum combines licorice root with AHAs and BHAs for exfoliation and blemish control. Unlike the other products on the list, this product should only be used at nighttime. If you use a product high in acids during the day it can photosensitize your skin.
Licorice root isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, so a patch test is always a wise move. But for those seeking natural, science-backed skincare solutions, this ancient herb could be your new secret weapon. So, ditch the harsh chemicals and embrace the power of nature – your skin will thank you!
P.S. Want to know more? Leave a comment below and let’s chat licorice root!
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