Brightening · Soothing
Licorice Root Extract
A brightening botanical extract in which glabridin inhibits pigment production through the same enzyme targeted by Vitamin C and arbutin.
Definition
What is it?
Licorice root extract comes from Glycyrrhiza glabra, a plant used for centuries in traditional medicine across different cultures before being studied in skincare. Glabridin is responsible for much of its brightening activity. Formulas also often use dipotassium glycyrrhizate, a related compound valued more for anti-inflammatory action than for brightening.
How it works
How does it work?
Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase, the same melanin-producing enzyme targeted by Vitamin C and arbutin. This gives licorice extract a genuine brightening effect with a science-supported mechanism, not only a traditional reputation. Separately, glycyrrhizic acid and its salt form, dipotassium glycyrrhizate, have documented anti-inflammatory activity. For this reason, licorice root appears in both brightening products and soothing formulas for redness, depending on which component the formula emphasizes.
Benefits
What does Licorice Root Extract actually do for the skin?
- 01Helps fade dark spots and uneven pigmentation by genuinely inhibiting tyrosinase
- 02Soothes visible redness and inflammation through a separate active compound
- 03Works through a specific mechanism different from Niacinamide, making it useful in combination
- 04Generally well tolerated
- 05Supports a more even-looking tone with consistent use
Who is it for?
Is it right for your skin?
For uneven tone and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as well as reactive or redness-prone skin that benefits from its anti-inflammatory properties.
Notes and myths
What should you know before using it?
Two different compounds account for licorice root's two main reputations, brightening and soothing. If you are looking for a specific effect, assess whether the formula highlights glabridin or glycyrrhizic acid, although many products do not specify this.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about Licorice Root Extract
Is licorice root extract the same as hydroquinone?+
No. Licorice root extract does not release hydroquinone. Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase activity, while other root compounds, such as glycyrrhizic acid derivatives, contribute to its soothing effect.
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Products with Licorice Root Extract
Ready to add Licorice Root Extract to your routine?
Browse our full catalog of Korean skincare products, or read the K-beauty guide for the correct order of use.