Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract
Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, also known as Licorice Root Extract, is derived from a legume plant native to the Mediterranean Sea, the Middle East, and central and southern Russia. Its key active components include glabridin, which is responsible for depigmenting and antioxidant effects, and glycyrrhizin, which provides anti-inflammatory activity. The concentration of glabridin in commercial extracts can vary widely, ranging from approximately 4% to 40%, which significantly affects potency and cost. It is used in a broad range of skincare products targeting hyperpigmentation, inflammation, and skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and eczema.
Licorice root extract has well-documented skin-lightening properties, with topical application of 0.5% glabridin shown to inhibit UVB-induced pigmentation; it is considered one of the safest depigmenting agents with few side effects. Its glycyrrhizin content provides potent anti-inflammatory effects useful in treating inflammatory skin conditions. Glabridin also exhibits antioxidant activity, adding further protective benefit.
The amount of active glabridin in commercial licorice extracts varies greatly (4%–40%), so efficacy for depigmentation depends heavily on extract quality and concentration used in the formulation.
