Science
Mechanism of Action
This botanical oil is rich in active compounds such as glabridin, liquiritin, glycyrrhizin, and licochalcone A. Glabridin targets tyrosinase, the enzyme crucial for melanin synthesis, thereby helping to lighten hyperpigmentation and promote a more uniform skin tone. Liquiritin further enhances clarity by assisting in the dispersal and removal of existing melanin. Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, provides powerful anti-inflammatory effects comparable to cortisol, which effectively calms redness and irritation associated with inflammatory conditions like eczema and rosacea. Licochalcone A contributes antimicrobial and additional anti-inflammatory properties, alongside aiding in sebum regulation. Furthermore, the oil delivers antioxidant defense against environmental free radicals and supports the skin's natural healing processes, potentially reducing scarring.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceWhile specific optimal percentages are not definitively established, typical usage levels range from 4-10% in formulations targeting skin tone evenness, and 0.5-10% for soothing irritated or dry skin.
Key findings
- 01 Formulations containing licorice extract in carrier oils, at concentrations between 4-10%, are typically utilized for skin brightening, soothing, and antioxidant benefits in creams and lotions designed to even out skin tone.
- 02 Usage rates ranging from 0.5-10% for licorice root oil extract are effective in soothing irritated skin, reducing rashes and itch in conditions such as atopic dermatitis, alleviating dry skin, and regulating melanin production.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
This ingredient is an oil-soluble extract, typically produced by macerating dried licorice roots in a compatible carrier oil. For optimal stability, store in a sealed container in a dry environment at room temperature.
Safety
Safety Profile
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Oil is generally considered safe for topical cosmetic application, with reports of adverse effects being rare; a minimal risk of allergic reaction exists but is uncommon. It exhibits low irritancy and is non-comedogenic. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has not yet evaluated this specific ingredient. While the EWG classifies 'GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (LICORICE) ROOT OIL' as 'RESTRICTED' for EWG VERIFIED™ products due to a lack of substantiation regarding broader systemic effects (often related to internal consumption), it also highlights low topical concerns for genotoxicity and notes its antioxidant and anticarcinogenic properties.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Oil is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, expertly addressing concerns from hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone to inflammation and oxidative stress, while demonstrating excellent skin compatibility.
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References
Sources
- makingcosmetics.com ↗
- theformulatorshop.com ↗
- glabridinchina.com ↗
- natureinbottle.com ↗
- desertessence.com ↗
- typology.com ↗
- cityskinclinic.com ↗
- specialchem.com ↗
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- ewg.org ↗
- nih.gov ↗
- wikipedia.org ↗
- avinaturals.com ↗