Licorice Root Extract

What is it?

Licorice root extract (Glycyrrhiza glabra/uralensis) contains skin-brightening compounds such as glabridin and dehydroglyasperin C, used in cosmetics for their tyrosinase-inhibiting, brightening properties.

What does it do?

Commonly used as a skin-brightening ingredient. A mechanistic in-vitro study found dehydroglyasperin C, a licorice component, suppressed melanin synthesis in melanocyte cells by downregulating a key pigmentation-driving transcription factor (MITF) — real, direct evidence for licorice's brightening mechanism, though from a cell-culture model rather than a human clinical trial.

Real products containing this

2% Alpha Arbutin + 2% Licorice Serum — Fundamentals

Check this ingredient with another — compatibility notes for every pair

See how this fits your skin — try SKYNN AI, free

Sources

Anti-melanogenesis effect of dehydroglyasperin C through the downregulation of MITF via the reduction of intracellular cAMP and acceleration of ERK activation in B16F1 melanoma cells

Important disclaimer

This page provides general skincare information and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ingredient interactions and evidence summaries reflect published, cited sources — not a personal assessment of your skin. For medical skin conditions, rashes, pregnancy/lactation questions or persistent concerns, please consult a licensed dermatologist or HPCSA-registered practitioner.