Also known as: Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, glabridin, dipotassium glycyrrhizate
What Is Licorice Root Extract?
Licorice root extract comes from the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra, a plant with a long history in traditional herbal practice across Asia and the Mediterranean. In skincare, the extract is valued for two groups of compounds: glabridin and related flavonoids, which are associated with brightening, and glycyrrhizin derivatives such as dipotassium glycyrrhizate, which are used mainly for their soothing feel. Because a single plant offers both, licorice shows up constantly in Korean brightening and calming formulas.
Glabridin is thought to work by interfering with tyrosinase, the enzyme that drives melanin production. With regular use, that may help soften the look of dark spots and uneven tone, including the flat marks left behind after a breakout. The extract also has antioxidant activity, which matters because UV exposure and inflammation both feed pigment formation. Dipotassium glycyrrhizate, meanwhile, is a common addition to toners and essences made for reactive skin because it helps quiet the look of redness.
Licorice is generally considered mild, so it is often chosen as a lower-irritation alternative to stronger brighteners such as kojic acid. The trade-off is pace: results are gradual, and the level of active compounds varies widely from one extract to another. It works best as a steady, everyday part of a routine rather than a quick fix.
Licorice Root Extract Benefits for Skin
- Helps fade the look of dark spots and post-blemish marks over time.
- Helps calm visible redness and the feeling of irritation.
- Provides antioxidant support against everyday environmental stress.
- Gentle enough for most sensitive and acne-prone skin.
- Layers easily with other brightening and soothing ingredients.
How to Use Licorice Root Extract
Licorice root extract usually appears in toners, essences, serums and creams, often alongside niacinamide or alpha arbutin. It can be used morning and night. Apply it after cleansing, while skin is still slightly damp, then seal it in with moisturizer. In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, because no brightening ingredient can keep up with unprotected sun exposure — see how to apply sunscreen properly.
Give it at least two to three months of consistent use before judging the effect on pigment. The soothing effect on redness is often noticeable sooner, sometimes within the first couple of weeks.
Side Effects & Precautions
Licorice extract is well tolerated by most people, but any botanical can trigger an allergic reaction in a small number of users. If your skin reacts easily, patch test a new product for several days first, and stop using it if you notice itching, swelling or a rash.
Some licorice-based products also contain fragrance or essential oils, which are more likely than the licorice itself to cause irritation. Read the full ingredient list if your skin is easily upset.
Use caution when combining
- Strong exfoliating acids on the same night if your skin is already sensitized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is licorice root extract safe for sensitive skin?
It is one of the gentler brightening ingredients and is often included in formulas for sensitive skin because of its soothing compounds. Allergies to plant extracts are still possible, so patch test first if you react easily.
How long does licorice root take to fade dark spots?
Pigment fades slowly because existing melanin has to move up and shed with normal skin turnover. Most people need two to three months of daily use, together with daily sunscreen, to see a meaningful change.
Can I use licorice root with vitamin C?
Yes. They target pigment through different pathways and are commonly combined. If you use a strong vitamin C serum, apply it first and layer the licorice product afterward, or use them at different times of day.