written by: Allison Goins, Ph.D. | Posted on January 2ndn.d2024 at 12:00 p.m
Did the dark spots get you down? Enter licorice root extract, nature’s secret weapon for glowing skin. Growing concerns about hyperpigmentation and acne have been identified as one of the main drivers for the expected 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 anti-aging. If you’re looking to add natural ingredients to your routine – let’s explore the skin benefits of licorice root, which can be a natural way to address your skincare concerns.
Licorice root stands out because it offers a range of benefits that can enhance your skin care routine. So whether you’re familiar with licorice root or have never heard of it before, keep reading to find out everything you need to know about it. Science-backed benefits of licorice root for skin, and whether you should incorporate it into your skincare routine. The licorice root skin benefits described in this article are based on the results of published peer-reviewed clinical trials.
The whole article is full of great information, but we don’t mind if you get the information you want straight away!
About licorice | Licorice in Traditional Medicine | Hyperpigmentation | 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, is fascinated by the intricate dance between skin care ingredients and our skin cells. Her research focused on cell-material interactions and fueled her passion for exploring natural ingredients such as licorice root extract.
What is licorice root?
There are over 30 species of licorice. However, the most common form of licorice root in skin care is scientifically known as Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is a perennial herb widely distributed in various regions such as Italy, Spain, Turkey, the Caucasus, western China and Central Asia. It appears on a product’s ingredients list as Glycyrrhiza glabra or Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract and is known to be rich in compounds and flavonoids.
Licorice boasts about 400 individual compounds, with about 300 being flavonoids (a popular class of antioxidants in skin care). Glabridin, a prominent flavonoid, steals the show, making up 0.08 percent to 0.35 percent of the dry weight of the root. This compound, along with other flavonoids, is the basis for licorice root’s skin-transforming abilities.
Licorice root in traditional medicine
Beyond skin care, licorice root has roots in traditional medicine systems. In many ancient Indian medical systems such as Aryuveda and Siddha, it serves as a laxative, anti-ulcer, antitussive and expectorant medicine. In particular, 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 skin benefits of licorice root
The natural compounds in licorice root work wonders in treating hyperpigmentation. Say goodbye to uneven skin tone as licorice root gently brightens dark spots, revealing a complexion that radiates vitality. Glabridin and licoricetin are both flavonoids in licorice root that have clinical evidence to support their ability to fight hyperpigmentation.
Related post: What Causes Hyperpigmentation: The Science Behind Clearer Skin
Studies reveal that Glabridin fights hyperpigmentation by acting as an inhibitor of tyrosinase, a key enzyme in melanin production. Licoricetin, another flavonoid in licorice, may also help with hyperpigmentation by dispersing melanin after it is produced. Preventing the clumping of melanin means that it won’t become a visible pigmented mark on your skin. In a clinical study licorice root extract was compared to hydroquinone and a comparable improvement in even skin tone was observed in both groups.
Is oily skin and acne giving you grief? Licorice root has got your back.
For those dealing with acne, licorice root can also be an ally in your battle. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated skin, while its antimicrobial elements can help fight acne-causing bacteria, promoting clearer skin. It won’t be able to completely eliminate your acne, but it could be an ally in a well-rounded acne-fighting skin care routine.
It can also help with acne-prone and oily skin by helping to regulate sebum production. Sebum is naturally produced by our skin cells to protect the skin, however, when produced in excess, it can clog your pores and lead to more acne. Sebum-controlling ingredients like licorice root extract and squalane can help reduce acne while keeping your pores clear.
Related post: The benefits of Squalane, do you need it in your routine?
So how can you incorporate this herbal wonder into your routine?
The best way is to look for licorice root extract in your skin care 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-in products like serums or moisturizers so it has maximum contact time to work its magic.
Are you ready to try it? Here are some licorice root gems worth trying
Topicals Faded Serum for dark spots & discoloration
This is a powerful product packed with a bunch of great whitening ingredients. It not only has licorice root extract but also tranexamic acid, kojic acid and alpha arbutin. Although this serum is on the more expensive side of the options, it contains the most active ingredients to fight hyperpigmentation.
NATURIUM Tranexamic Acid Topical 5%
This is another serum that combines licorice root with tranexamic acid, two hyperpigmentations, for twice the brightening power.
VERSED Stroke of Brilliance Brightening Serum
This is a budget-friendly option to introduce licorice root into your skin care routine and reap the skin benefits of licorice root. It offers a gentle dose of licorice root along with vitamin C for a radiant glow. This is a great serum for everyday use if you want to maintain an even skin tone and there’s no stubborn hyperpigmentation you’re trying to target.
elf Blemish Breakthrough Triple-Acid Serum Resurfacing
A great choice for oily and acne-prone skin, this serum combines licorice root with AHAs and BHAs to exfoliate and control blemishes. Unlike the other products on the list, this product should only be used at night. If you use a product with a high acid content during the day, it can photosensitize your skin.
Licorice root is not a one-size-fits-all solution, so a patch test is always a wise move. But for those looking for natural, science-backed skin care 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!
PS Would you like to know more? Leave a comment below and let’s chat licorice root!
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