Brightening

Licorice Root Extract

One of the most effective plant remedies for hyperpigmentation is licorice root extract, which contains glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid that suppress melanin synthesis and soothe inflammation. At the same time, it is one of the mildest brightening agents.

Lighteninganti-pigmentationAnti-inflammatoryGlycyrrhizin

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Licorice root extract — extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice). In INCI: Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract. Key active compounds: glycyrrhizin (saponin, anti-inflammatory), glycyrrhetinic acid (anti-inflammatory), liquiritin (flavonoid, brightening), isoliquiritigenin (tyrosinase inhibitor). One of the best sources of natural brightening agents.

Brightening and anti-inflammatory active in serums for pigmentation spots, toners, and creams for sensitive skin. Popular in K-beauty as a gentle alternative to hydroquinone and arbutin.

Key Benefits

✦

Gentle lightening and anti-pigmentation

Liquiritin and isoliquiritigenin inhibit tyrosinase and melanogenesis — reduce hyperpigmentation, post-acne spots, and uneven tone. The effect is milder than kojic acid or arbutin, but with excellent tolerability.

◈

Pronounced anti-inflammatory action

Glycyrrhetinic acid suppresses inflammatory mediators (PGE2, leukotriene B4) and reduces skin reactivity. One of the strongest natural anti-inflammatory agents in cosmetics — effective for rosacea and redness.

✧

Synergy with other brightening agents

Licorice root extract pairs well with vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha-arbutin — each component blocks different stages of melanogenesis, together providing better results than alone.

Suitable for

Sensitive skinSkin with pigmentationSkin with rednessAll skin types

Main Actions

✓ Spot lightening✓ Inhibition of tyrosinase✓ Anti-inflammatory action✓ Tone evening

CategoryBrightening

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