Glycyrrhizic Acid
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Glycyrrhizin, Glycyrrhizinic Acid
Derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) | Potent soothing properties
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Glycyrrhizic Acid?
Glycyrrhizic Acid, also known as Glycyrrhizin or Glycyrrhizinic Acid, is a triterpene saponin and the chief sweet-tasting constituent extracted from the root of the licorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra. In skincare, it is highly valued for its potent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help reduce redness, irritation, and swelling, making it beneficial for conditions like atopic dermatitis. It also functions as a humectant and skin conditioning agent. Furthermore, Glycyrrhizic Acid and its related compounds, such as glabridin (another component of licorice extract), are recognized for their skin-brightening and anti-melanogenic effects, helping to prevent and fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots by inhibiting tyrosinase activity and other mechanisms.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Zuo J, Meng T, Wang Y, Tang W. A Review of the Antiviral Activities of Glycyrrhizic Acid, Glycyrrhetinic Acid and Glycyrrhetinic Acid Monoglucuronide. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2023 Apr 23;16(5):641 [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10223068/]
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Liu J, Xu X, Jian M, Guo Y, Zhai L, Sun G, et al. Glycyrrhiza glabra extract as a skin-whitening Agent: Identification of active components and CRTC1/MITF pathway-inhibition mechanism. J Ethnopharmacol. 2025;8:100365 [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874125006336]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Glycyrrhizic Acid is a variant of Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Derived from licorice Has antioxidant benefits
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Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
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