Why Licorice Is a Skin Care Hero – Backed by Science and Nature
- Soap Ninja
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
Licorice isn’t just a sweet treat—it’s a botanical powerhouse with real skin benefits. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, licorice is now getting the scientific spotlight it deserves in the world of modern skincare. From calming inflammation to fading dark spots, licorice has proven it can do more than soothe a sore throat.
With the rise of natural and Eco-friendly beauty, plant-based ingredients like licorice are more popular than ever. In fact, nearly one in five beauty products now features botanical extracts. And licorice, with its rich history and proven results, is becoming a go-to in skin-loving formulas.
What Makes Licorice So Special?
The magic lies in the root. Licorice roots are packed with over 400 natural compounds—many of which have skin-soothing, brightening, and antibacterial properties. The three standout stars are:
Glycyrrhizin – Known for calming redness and irritation.
Glabridin – Helps even out skin tone by reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Licochalcone A – A powerful antioxidant that helps with acne and inflammation.
These compounds are naturally found in different species of the licorice plant, especially those grown in regions like Asia, Europe, and North Africa. ✨ Calmer, Clearer, Brighter Skin
Licorice tackles a range of common skin concerns: ✨ Brightening & Pigmentation
Glabridin is a natural alternative to skin-lightening agents, helping fade dark spots and even out skin tone by blocking melanin production. It’s been shown to reduce redness and sun-related pigmentation, making it a great ingredient for dull or uneven skin.
Licochalcone A also helps protect skin from UV damage. In one study, it reduced oxidative stress from UVA exposure, meaning it helps fight early signs of ageing too.
🌿 Eczema Relief
Struggling with eczema or very dry, itchy skin? Licorice root has shown impressive results. In one trial, people using a cream with glycyrrhetinic acid saw an 80% improvement in eczema symptoms—without the side effects of steroid creams. Licochalcone A has also been shown to help manage eczema in both adults and children, preventing flare-ups and reducing itch.
🌹 Rosacea & Sensitive Skin
If your skin is easily irritated or prone to redness, licorice can help. Studies found that licochalcone A reduces facial redness in rosacea sufferers and improves skin hydration. It’s gentle enough for daily use and even effective in calming post-shaving irritation. 💥 Acne
Licorice has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory powers that make it ideal for acne-prone skin. Licochalcone A, in particular, helps control inflammation caused by Cutibacterium acnes (the bacteria behind breakouts), reducing redness and swelling. 🔥 Soothing Inflamed Skin
The bioactives in licorice calm key inflammatory pathways in the skin. They reduce substances like COX-2 and IL-6—both known for triggering redness and irritation—making licorice a great natural remedy for sensitive or reactive skin. 🧴 Even Fat Reduction?
Yes, really! One small study showed that creams containing glycyrrhetinic acid could slightly reduce the thickness of fat just under the skin, such as on the thighs. It works by lowering cortisol levels in fat cells, which may help prevent fat buildup. A Word on Quality & Sustainability
As licorice’s popularity grows, so does the risk of fake or low-quality extracts. Top manufacturers now trace their roots—literally—from plant to product, using DNA testing to ensure purity and species accuracy. Sustainability is also key. Some wild licorice species are now at risk due to over-harvesting. That’s why responsible suppliers like BGG only harvest from mature plants during winter, allowing the species to regenerate. Their processes are strictly controlled and non-GMO certified by third parties like Ecocert.
Final Thoughts
With the skincare world moving toward natural, gentle, and sustainable solutions, licorice ticks all the right boxes. Whether your concern is pigmentation, redness, breakouts, or sensitive skin, licorice offers a plant-based, science-backed answer.
So, the next time you’re scanning the label of a face cream or serum, keep an eye out for liquorice root extract—you’ll be treating your skin to centuries of wisdom and a whole lot of modern research.
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