Glycyrrhetinic Acid

Glycyrrhetinic Acid at a Glance

• Main ingredient found in licorice
• Potent antioxidant properties
• Helps fight UVB-induced skin aging
• Exerts soothing effects on skin
• Helps minimize uneven skin tone

Glycyrrhetinic Acid Description

Glycyrrhetinic acid is a bioactive compound that’s the main active ingredient found in the licorice plant (_Glycyrrhiza glabra_). While it’s most famously known for imparting licorice’s signature flavor, it’s also an important ingredient for maintaining healthy skin.

Scientific research demonstrates glycyrrhetinic acid has potent antioxidant properties to fight against the ravages of free-radical damage on skin. Recent studies show this acid is particularly effective in staving off the effects of UVB (ultraviolet B)-induced skin damage.

As if that weren’t impressive enough, research demonstrates glycyrrhetinic acid also exerts impressive anti-inflammatory effects on skin when applied topically. An indirect but often visible result of this trait is the minimization of dark patches and uneven tone.

The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled glycyrrhetinic acid safe as used in cosmetics, where it is used in concentrations up to 2%. In fact, amounts even as high as 6% showed no indication of skin sensitization or irritation. Common use levels tend to fall between 0.5–1%, especially if this ingredient is used to support other ingredients known to fade hyperpigmentation and/or soothe skin.

Glycyrrhetinic Acid References