you may have heard of using licorice extract for skin lightening purposes, but what are the benefits? in this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the purported benefits of using licorice extract for your skin.
what is licorice extract?
licorice extract is derived from the root of the “glycyrrhiza glabra” plant, also known as licorice root. licorice root has been used for centuries in traditional chinese medicine for its medicinal properties. it is only recently that licorice extract has become popular for use in skincare products.
the main active ingredient in licorice extract is glabridin, which is a compound that inhibits the production of melanin. melanin is the pigment that gives our skin its color. when there is less melanin produced, the skin will appear lighter.
why is it a staple ingredient in so many skin-lightening products?
there are a few reasons why licorice extract is such a popular ingredient in skin-lightening products.
licorice extract is a natural alternative to other skin-lightening ingredients like hydroquinone. hydroquinone is a synthetic compound that is used in many over-the-counter skin lighteners. while it is effective at lightening the skin, it can also cause side effects like irritation, redness, and dryness.
licorice extract is also gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin. it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe the skin and reduce irritation.
do all skincare brands use licorice extract?
no, not all skincare brands use licorice extract in their products. however, it is becoming increasingly popular, especially in natural and organic skincare products.
benefits of licorice extract for skin
in addition to lightening the skin, licorice extract has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. this makes it beneficial for treating a variety of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
another benefit of using licorice extract for your skin is that it can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. this is because licorice extract can increase the production of collagen and elastin. collagen and elastin are proteins that help to keep the skin firm and elastic.
side effects of licorice extract
while this is an uncommon allergen, meaning it's unlikely to cause an actual allergy on its own, depending on what other substances it's combined with, it can sometimes induce a response, according to experts.
how to use it
it's a good idea to search for this in a serum, which will be more concentrated and have higher dosages of the substance. because it is potentially irritating, follow the product directions carefully when it comes to how often and when to apply it.
when using licorice extract (or any ingredient that targets hyperpigmentation), be extra careful about sun protection and daily spf. sun exposure may counteract and sabotage any efforts you make to improve your skin tone.
bottom line
licorice extract has many potential benefits for your skin, including lightening hyperpigmentation, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, and treating inflammatory conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. while it is generally safe to use, it can cause side effects in some people. you should always patch test any new skincare product before using it and be sure to follow the directions carefully. and don't forget the sunscreen!
adewunmi skincare provides customized skincare solutions for all skin types. if you're interested in trying licorice extract for your skin, make sure to try our a.i. skin scan today!
