🌿 ingredient highlight- licorice extract

Jun 25, 2025

If you enjoyed learning about green tea extract, you're going to love what licorice extract can do for your skin. (No, not the candy—though it comes from the same root!)

Licorice extract, from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, is a gentle but powerful skincare ingredient known for its brightening, soothing, and anti-aging benefits. Here’s why we love it:


1. Naturally Brightens Skin

Licorice extract contains compounds like glabridin and liquiritin, which help fade dark spots and even out skin tone. These ingredients work by slowing melanin production and gently fading discoloration over time—perfect for post-acne marks or sun spots.

2. Soothes Redness and Irritation

This ingredient is a go-to for calming sensitive or irritated skin. It helps reduce redness and inflammation, making it great for anyone dealing with breakouts, rosacea, or dryness. Plus, it's rich in antioxidants that help defend the skin from environmental stress.

3. Supports Firm, Smooth Skin

Licorice extract helps protect the skin’s natural collagen and elastin, keeping your complexion firm and youthful. It works to soften fine lines and improve texture without harsh actives.

4. Balances Oil and Blemishes

Got oily or acne-prone skin? Licorice helps calm overactive oil glands and reduce inflammation. It supports a more balanced, less breakout-prone complexion.


🔍Quick FAQ

  • How long until I see results?
    Most people notice brighter, calmer skin in 4–8 weeks of regular use.
  • Is it safe for all skin types?
    Yes! Licorice is gentle and works well for sensitive, oily, dry, and combination skin.
  • Can I use it with other active ingredients?
    Absolutely. It pairs beautifully with niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and gentle exfoliants.
  • Do I need to wear sunscreen?
    Yes—always. Brightening ingredients like licorice need SPF support to maintain results and protect your skin barrier.

đź’ˇ How to Use Licorice Extract in Your Routine

  • Look for licorice in serums, moisturizers, or eye gels
  • Use it in your morning or evening routine
  • Always follow with SPF during the day

Licorice-Powered Products We Love

Clarity Moisturizer →
This daily moisturizer hydrates without clogging pores and helps calm redness, making it ideal for breakout-prone skin.

ästhetik skincare clarity moisturizer held out in front of green plants

Radiant Eye Gel →
A refreshing under-eye treatment that targets puffiness and dark circles while brightening and nourishing the delicate skin around the eyes.

ästhetik skincare radiant eye gel with rippling water behind it

Final Take

Licorice extract is a gentle yet effective multitasker. It brightens, soothes, and balances—making it a go-to for anyone looking to improve their skin tone, calm irritation, and maintain a healthy, glowing complexion.

Whether you're targeting dark spots or just want a calmer, more even glow—this is one ingredient worth having in your routine.


Want more ingredient highlights? Keep following along—we’ve got more glow-getting secrets coming your way!

Written by

Alexis Pfropper is a licensed esthetician and co-founder of ästhetik spa and ästhetik skincare, with over a decade of experience in advanced treatments and clean beauty.