What it is
This extract is obtained from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, the licorice plant. It is a well-established botanical valued for its soothing and skin-conditioning properties, attributed in part to compounds such as glabridin and glycyrrhizin. It is widely used in calming and brightening-positioned skincare and sunscreen formulas.
Safety & warnings
Licorice extract is generally well tolerated and is often selected for sensitive-skin formulations. As with any botanical, rare sensitivity is possible, but it is not considered comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; derived from the root of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra) by water or solvent extraction.
History
Licorice root has a long history of use in traditional medicine across Europe and Asia, and its extracts became popular in modern cosmetics as soothing and brightening agents.
Questions everyone asks
What does licorice extract do for skin?
It conditions and soothes the skin and provides antioxidant support, which is why it appears in many calming and brightening formulas.
Which part of the plant is used?
The extract is made from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) plant.