Licorice Root Extract
Licorice Root Extract is a gentle, naturally derived ingredient popular in UK skincare for its soothing and brightening qualities. It helps calm visible redness and uneven skin tone while delivering a soft glow, making it a favourite in serums, creams and masks for sensitive or tired-looking skin.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, licorice root extract functions as a multi-tasking botanical that helps to inhibit the appearance of pigmentation for a more even complexion. Its natural compounds provide soothing properties that can reduce the look of redness and irritation, while also offering mild antioxidant support to protect against environmental stressors. Formulators value its ability to work well in both rinse-off and leave-on products, bringing a calming effect without compromising on elegance or skin feel.
Key benefits
- Helps even skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots
- Calms visible redness and sensitivity
- Provides antioxidant protection against environmental damage
- Delivers a brighter, more radiant complexion
- Soothes and comforts irritated or reactive skin
- Works as a gentle brightening agent in under-eye and spot treatments
Best for
sensitive skin, redness-prone skin, dull skin, uneven skin tone, mature skin, dry skin
Where it comes from
Licorice Root Extract is obtained from the roots of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, a flowering perennial herb native to southern Europe and parts of Asia. The roots are harvested, dried and then extracted to capture the beneficial compounds used in cosmetic formulations.