Licorice root is native to Mediterranean and Western Asian. It has been used medicinally in many cultures thousands of years, having very strong roots in Chinese medicine, treating such conditions as infections, gastrointestinal problems, malaria, and insomnia. It has also been used as a natural sweetener, but no, it is not the same thing as the candy that many of us loved as kids and hide in our desks as adults.
In addition to the alleged medicinal benefits of licorice root, there are also significant skin care benefits to this little wonder from nature. Over the last two decades, the superstars of the skincare industry have been ingredients such as retinol and vitamin C. When it comes to anti-aging products, you have no doubt seen retinol slapped all over the label and promoted on TV.
While those ingredients are still used in skincare products, you are now just as likely to see licorice root, which has an active ingredient called glycyrrhizin, which is derived from the glycyrrhiza glabra plant. The beauty of this ingredient is that it is effective on a variety of skin conditions. This is why you will find it in many serums, face creams, and masks.
Major Benefits of Licorice Root for Skin
There are some key benefits of licorice root that we would like to discuss with you today:
Skin Lightening – as we get older, we start to see age spots, so many of the products today are focused on this specific issue. Licorice root helps shield the skin from free radical damage and lightens those age spots to offer a more even skin tone
Skin Soothing – one of the more effective ways that licorice root is used in soothing various skin conditions, including eczema, and psoriasis, which is due to the anti-inflammatory properties of glycyrrhizin.
Fights Bacteria – licorice root can help control oil production in the skin, which makes it a natural alternative to fight bacteria that can cause acne. Those with acne-prone skin may want to give this a try.
Natural UV Protection – we are seeing more and more skin care products that promote UV protection, which is yet another benefit of licorice root. The natural UV blocking properties of glycyrrhizin can help provide some protection against the UVB rays, which are the rays that cause sunburn and damage skin. Consider this a natural boost to your regular sun protection.
Moisturizes – dry skin equals wrinkles, something we all fight to avoid as long as possible. Licorice extract is used to both attract and retain moisture, promoting smooth skin and less wrinkles.
Inhibiting Melanin – hyperpigmentation is something we all face as we get older, and these darker spots will often show up on face, neck, and hands. Redness and swelling often accompany this, which licorice extract can also help treat.
If you would like to know more about our products that integrate licorice root extract into the formula or are interested in purchasing some our products, click here.
