Glycyrrhetinic acid is a triterpenoid derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and skin-barrier-supporting properties. It is commonly included to calm redness and irritation in sensitive or inflamed skin.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild localized irritation or stinging | Uncommon | Transient and usually resolves with discontinuation. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Possible in individuals sensitized to licorice-derived compounds. |
| Redness or burning sensation | Rare | More likely on compromised or highly reactive skin. |
| Systemic mineralocorticoid-like effects (e.g., hypertension) | Very rare | Associated with ingestion rather than topical use; negligible risk from cosmetic application. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.