Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract is an extract of the root of the licorice plant, which is native to the Mediterranean Sea, the Middle East, central and ... . The extract contains several active components, including glabridin, which has skin-lightening or depigmenting properties, and glycyrrhizin, which is a potent anti-inflammatory. Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract is used in various products, including facial moisturizers/treatments and masks.
Positive properties of glycyrrhiza glabra root extract include its skin-lightening and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to inhibit UVB caused pigmentation of guinea pigs. It is also considered to be one of the safest skin lightening agents with the fewest side effects.
Negative properties of glycyrrhiza glabra root extract are mainly associated with its active component, glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin is responsible for the roots sweet taste, as well as its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. However, it is also linked to many of the adverse effects of licorice root, including high blood pressure, low potassium levels, and water retention. To avoid these side effects, some products use deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), which has had the glycyrrhizin removed.
The amount of glabridin in commercial licorice extracts can vary a lot, so it is important to choose a product that boasts its high-quality licorice extract if you are after the depigmenting properties.
Ingredients or materials in glycyrrhiza glabra root extract include glabridin and glycyrrhizin.
