Liquorice root extract is a powerful natural skin-brightener that is especially effective in reducing the appearance of dark spots. This ingredient is high in antioxidants, with anti-inflammatory properties that brighten your skin and even out your skin tone.
It is found in many skincare products. In masks, it has even more benefits as it can absorb more deeply into the skin’s outer layers. In this guide, we take a look at liquorice root and why it’s an excellent addition to your anti-ageing skincare routine.
WHAT IS IT?
Originating from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, which is grown in parts of Europe, Asia and the Middle East, liquorice root has been used for its medicinal properties for many years. Its usage dates back to ancient Assyrian, Egyptian, Chinese and Indian cultures. Today, it is used in the food industry, health supplements as well as skincare for its topical benefits.
The extract of the plant contains many compounds that help target dark spots. It works effectively especially used alongside other skin-brightening ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide and turmeric.
WANT TO KNOW A LITTLE MORE SCIENCE BEHIND IT?
The main cause of dark spots is an excess production of melanin. This can be caused by sun exposure, inflammation, hormonal changes and other factors. The production of melanin (pigment) involves the production of an enzyme called tyrosinase, which provides colour to skin cells.
Liquorice extract contains a compound that disperses the build-up of melanin by inhibiting the production of tyrosinase. This, in turn, evens skin tone and targets dark spots.
Speaking to Byrdie, dermatologist Jennifer Chwalek, MD explains why this extract is so effective in not only preventing dark spots but also fading existing spots. "It contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps to disperse and remove existing melanin in the skin."
HOW DOES IT HELP YOUR SKIN?
The main benefit of this extract is its ability to brighten and even skin tone. But it has other benefits, too. Healthline states that the extract contains over 300 compounds, with potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral effects. According to skinlibrary UK, one such compound is glycyrrhizin - an anti-oxidant that fights free radicals.
Chwalek adds that the anti-inflammatory benefits come from the molecule licochalcone A, which “inhibits two inflammatory markers that trigger the inflammatory cascade”.
Liquorice is effective in treating breakouts and acne, too, reducing oil production and soothing inflammation. It can also the red, patchy appearance of rosacea.
Finally, it may help to regenerate elastin and collagen in the skin. It contains many nutrients, such as amino acids that improve skin hydration and moisturise the skin.
WHERE IT’S FOUND: Glycyrrhiza glabra plant
BENEFITS: This ingredient has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce and prevent dark spots, brightening and evening out your complexion.
SHOP PRODUCT: Glow Turmeric Mask
Sources:
https://www.byrdie.com/licorice-extract-for-skin-4777063
https://skinlibrary.co.uk/blogs/librarian-edits/licorice-root-skin-benefits
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/licorice-root#benefits
https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/licorice-extract-for-skin/
