Licorice root extract has several benefits for the skin, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Here are some of the benefits of licorice root extract for the skin:
Positive:
- Brightening: Licorice root extract can help brighten dull, lackluster skin. It contains a chemical compound called glabridin, which inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme that controls the production of melanin. As a result, licorice extract can be used to help with hyperpigmentation, melasma, and inflammation.
- Soothing: Licorice root extract has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin.
- Anti-aging: Licorice root extract fights against oxidative stress, which is known to accelerate visible signs of aging. It encourages the skin to protect itself against harmful elements and, in turn, rewards with fresher, more supple skin for longer.
- Emulsifying: Licorice root extract is an emulsifier, which allows both water and oil-based ingredients to mix effectively. This improves the consistency of products and allows skincare products to deliver benefits to the skin.
Negative:
- There are no known negative effects of licorice root extract on the skin.
Ingredients or materials:
- Glycyrrhizin: This is the compound responsible for the roots sweet taste, as well as its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
- Glabridin: This is a chemical compound found in licorice root extract that inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme that controls the production of melanin. It helps with hyperpigmentation, melasma, and inflammation.
- Licochalcone: This is an active ingredient found in licorice root extract that helps regulate oil secretion in the skin, making it compatible with even oily skin types.
- Flavonoid: This is a plant polyphenol with antioxidant properties that can protect the skin from premature discoloration, aging, and environmental stress.
It is important to note that excessive internal use of licorice root may have potential side effects, but there are no known negative effects of using it topically on the skin.