Licorice is an amazing skincare ingredient with benefits for many different skin types and conditions. Licorice has been used medicinally for thousands of years across the world. This includes ancient China, India, Greece, Egypt, Rome, and the Americas. Traditionally, it has been used to heal a range of ailments, from stomach upset to respiratory problems. More recently, studies have shown the benefits of licorice extract include antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties.
Licorice Root Skincare Benefits for Acne
Licorice’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great ally for treating acne. Licorice has been shown to both kill the bacteria that cause acne as well as control oil production in the skin, making it a great alternative to BPO (benzoyl peroxide) for more sensitive skin. Some of our favorite serums containing licorice for acne-prone skin are Michele Corley Blemish Be Gone Serum and Le Mieux Perfect Renewal System.
For more sensitive acne-prone skin we recommend cleansing with BiON Bacteriostat Cleanser or Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser. To hydrate and soothe acne-prone skin, we love Rhonda Alison Vital Repair Gel. This gel promotes the healing of acne while the licorice in it also helps fade dark acne marks, a.k.a. Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) which leads us to our next section.
Licorice Root Skincare Benefits for Hyperpigmentation
We love licorice for its ability to lighten hyperpigmentation (dark spots) on the skin. We have seen licorice’s ability to do this first hand with the many great products we offer, however, clinical studies such as this one, are backing up our findings. Our top-selling brightening serum utilizes Licorice in its creamy formula, Sorella Apothecary Lemon Lightening Serum. Not only does it brighten dark pigment, but also calms the inflammation that causes pigment in the first place. The hydrating formula prevents the dryness and irritation that typically comes with an exfoliating serum.
If you already have serums that you love at home but want to boost them with the benefits of licorice extract, choose Michele Corley Licorice Root Additive. Used alone or mixed with your favorite product, this serum packs a punch. It is acne-safe and offers all of the amazing benefits of licorice right into your favorite product.
Benefits for Dermatitis
The benefits of licorice extract also extend to treating atopic dermatitis. Our favorite cleanser containing licorice for people who are prone to eczema and dermatitis is Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser and can be followed with Michele Corley Ultimate Hydration Gel for hydration, which also contains licorice.
