Glycyrrhizic Acid
Also known as: Glycyrrhizin, Glycyrrhizinic Acid
Derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) | Potent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Glycyrrhizic Acid?
Glycyrrhizic Acid, also known as Glycyrrhizin or Glycyrrhizinic Acid, is a triterpene saponin and the chief sweet-tasting constituent extracted from the root of the licorice plant, Glycyrrhiza glabra. In skincare, it is highly valued for its potent anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help reduce redness, irritation, and swelling, making it beneficial for conditions like atopic dermatitis. It also functions as a humectant and skin conditioning agent. Furthermore, Glycyrrhizic Acid and its related compounds, such as glabridin (another component of licorice extract), are recognized for their skin-brightening and anti-melanogenic effects, helping to prevent and fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots by inhibiting tyrosinase activity and other mechanisms.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
Zuo J, Meng T, Wang Y, Tang W. A Review of the Antiviral Activities of Glycyrrhizic Acid, Glycyrrhetinic Acid and Glycyrrhetinic Acid Monoglucuronide. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2023 Apr 23;16(5):641 [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10223068/]
-
Liu J, Xu X, Jian M, Guo Y, Zhai L, Sun G, et al. Glycyrrhiza glabra extract as a skin-whitening Agent: Identification of active components and CRTC1/MITF pathway-inhibition mechanism. J Ethnopharmacol. 2025;8:100365 [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874125006336]
Related Ingredients
2,3-Butanediol
Primarily a humectant of either natural or synthetic origin | Helps stabilize formulas and keep key ingredients suspended
Acai Extract
Amazonian superfruit with exceptional antioxidants
Acmella Oleracea Extract
Natural botox alternative for expression line relaxation
Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed Extract
Plant-derived ingredient with potential antioxidant and skin-soothing properties | Also known as Horse Chestnut Extract
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.