Licorice Root
INCI: Licorice Extract
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Licorice Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra, Glycyrrhetinic Acid
Has antioxidant and soothing properties Helps fight dark spots
EWG Safety Score
What Is Licorice Root?
Licorice root, also known as licorice root extract or Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract, comes from a flowering plant well known for its inclusion as a flavoring agent in foods, beverages, and medicines. It has also been used for centuries in traditional folk medicine.
Modern research shows these ancient practices have a solid foundation: Licorice root has several active compounds that can benefit skin, most prominently glycyrrhetinic acid. In addition to having antioxidant benefits, licorice root helps soothe irritated and reddened skin and helps fight dark spots.
The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has found licorice root safe as used in cosmetics, in amounts up to 4%.
Clinical Evidence & References
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Website, Accessed August 2024
- Complementary Therapies in Medicine, May 2023, ePublication
- Cosmetics, January 2022, pages 1-19
- Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, November 2021, pages 1-15
- Current Issues in Molecular Biology, September 2021, pages 1,171-1,187
- Textbook of Natural Medicine, July 2020, pages 641-647
Frequently Asked Questions
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