Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root extract is a botanical active used in skincare for its skin-brightening and soothing properties, primarily attributed to compounds such as glabridin and licochalcone A that inhibit tyrosinase and reduce inflammation. It is commonly used to address hyperpigmentation, uneven tone, and redness.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contact irritation (mild redness, stinging) | Uncommon | Usually transient and concentration-dependent, more likely on sensitive skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Sensitization to botanical components has been reported in isolated cases. |
| Photosensitivity / phototoxic reaction | Very rare | Limited reports; not a well-established effect for topical licorice extract. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.