Licorice Extract

Best

Antioxidant

Licorice Extract at a glance

  • General term for extracts from licorice
  • Defends skin against oxidative stress
  • Glycyrrhetinic acid helps soothe skin
  • Also minimizes dark patches and uneven tone

Licorice Extract description

This extract is from the plant taxonomically known as _Glycyrrhiza glabra_. Licorice extract is a general term; in many cases cosmetics companies will use specific parts of the plant in their formulations, such as licorice root or seed extract, accompanied by the plant’s complete Latin name. Licorice is valuable in skin care products for numerous reasons. First and foremost, as a plant extract, it has antioxidant properties that enable it to fight off one of the leading causes of aging, oxidative stress. Of particular interest is one of licorice’s main compounds, glycyrrhetinic acid. In addition to its function as an antioxidant, there are numerous studies showing it has potent anti-inflammatory properties as well, making it a welcome addition to products designed to treat compromised or reddened skin. Even more impressive, research demonstrates that an indirect benefit of this trait is the minimization of dark patches and uneven tone.

Licorice Extract references

  • Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, November 2021, pages 1-15
  • Journal of Phamaceutical Care, August 2020, pages 186-195
  • Biological Chemistry, April 2024, pages 407-415
  • Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters, November 2022, ePublication
  • Mediators of Inflammation, January 2021, pages 1-17
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2019, pages 325-331
  • International Journal of Toxicology, March 2007, pages 79-112

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.