5 Skincare benefits of licorice root extract (glycyrrhizinate)

What is licorice root and what are its skin care benefits?

 Licorice root derived from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, has long been revered in Japan for its medicinal properties and health benefits.Scientists have recently discovered that licorice root extract acts as an emulsifier, allowing water and oil-based ingredients to mix effectively.This can be a challenge because water and oil tend to separate, and natural emulsifiers are more difficult to come across in skincare.But licorice root extract improves product consistency and more importantly, allows our skin care products to deliver benefits to our skin! No wonder it's so popular in product formulations.Here are some other reasons you might want to check out licorice.

1.Brightening and treating dark spots

Have any friends told you to use skin care products with licorice to remove dark spots? Although the formation of melanin is a complex process, the main enzyme responsible for the discoloration is tyrosinase.Licorice root extract is known to inhibit the secretion of tyrosinase which helps prevent the formation of dark spots on the skin.But not only does licorice root extract stop new dark spots from appearing, but it's also said to help fade existing ones.The root also contains flavonoids, plant polyphenols with antioxidant properties that may protect the skin from premature discoloration, aging and environmental stress.These same properties make licorice great for reversing hyperpigmentation, a condition in which the skin develops dark spots that make the skin's tone and texture appear uneven. It also helps reduce melasma, which can occur due to sun exposure or hormonal changes during pregnancy.

While hydroquinone is often the ingredient of choice for removing hyperpigmentation, it has several downsides, including potential side effects such as dryness, irritation, and redness.If you're looking for a gentler way to brighten your complexion, licorice is an attractive natural alternative.

2.Sun protection 

The licorice in skin care products also acts as a sunscreen.In addition to helping to brighten already sun-damaged skin, licorice contains glabridin, which is known to help stop skin discoloration during and immediately after sun exposure.UV rays are the main cause of skin discoloration, but glabridin contains UV-blocking enzymes that prevent new skin damage from appearing.

3.Healing acne scars

Licorice root is also a top choice for treating acne scars.Sometimes we get scars from breakouts or injuries through no fault of our own. Licorice may speed up the healing process by inhibiting the production of melanin, an amino acid that causes skin pigmentation. While melanin does help protect the skin from UV rays, too much melanin is another issue entirely.Excess melanin production during sun exposure can lead to adverse effects including dark scars and even skin cancer.

4.Calms Inflammation

Licorice is said to have a soothing effect on the skin and help reduce inflammation.Glycyrrhizin in licorice can reduce redness, irritation, and swelling and is used in the treatment of skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and eczema.

5.Softens the skin

Licorice can aid in the regeneration of our skin's collagen and elastin supply, both of which are necessary to keep our skin elastic, smooth and baby-soft.Not only that, but licorice also helps preserve hyaluronic acid, a sugar molecule capable of holding 1,000 times its weight in water and keeping skin plump and elastic.

6.ide effects of licorice on the skin

Licorice extract is non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog pores.It's also an unlikely allergen, meaning it can cause an allergic reaction only in rare cases, but some people may experience a reaction depending on what other ingredients are combined with licorice root extract.As with all cosmetics, you should always patch test skincare products before applying them to your entire face.While licorice extract is generally considered a non-irritating and safe ingredient, it may not be safe during pregnancy.Research suggests that glycyrrhizic acid, the very ingredient that confers healing properties to the skin of the roots,may be associated with children experiencing developmental and behavioral problems.For the same reason, herbal teas, supplements and snacks containing licorice are not recommended for pregnant women.It's unclear how much licorice can be harmful, so if you expect it, it's best to avoid this ingredient altogether.