Skin inflammation often causes redness, irritation, and can even lead to conditions like eczema and rosacea. Fortunately, there’s a natural solution that’s been used in traditional Chinese medicine for ages: licorice root. This remarkable ingredient is well known for its potential benefits in reducing skin inflammation.

Now, let’s delve into the various properties of licorice root and discover how it plays a role in promoting healthier, calmer skin.

Understanding Licorice Root Extract

Licorice root, obtained from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant (licorice plant), has been a staple in ancient Chinese medicine among other countries. Specifically, it’s most known for its efficacy in treating inflammatory conditions. Serving as a “guide,” licorice root also aids in the effectiveness of other herbal ingredients.

Enriched with helpful compounds like glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and saponins, this natural ingredient possesses a variety of remarkable therapeutic effects. In addition, licorice root stands out for its exceptional anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good natural remedy for addressing skin inflammation.

Of particular significance are two compounds: Glycyrrhizin and Glabridin, both known for their anti-inflammatory potential.

 

Glycyrrhizin, the main compound found in licorice root extract, offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Glabridin, with its own anti-inflammatory benefits, further enhances the skin’s appearance, making it one of the most effective compounds for promoting a radiant complexion and skin tone. But licorice root also contains powerful antioxidants. Licochalcone A is an important antioxidant that fights off free radicals which damage your cells and show signs of aging, resulting in texture, face wrinkles, pigmentation, and fine lines.

Because of these two compounds, licorice extract ranks among the top natural ingredients for achieving healthier, less inflamed-looking skin. 

How Licorice Root Helps Soothe Inflamed-Looking Skin

Inflamed skin requires special attention and gentle care to avoid irritation. Licorice root, with its soothing and calming properties, may be beneficial for individuals with sensitive skin and melanin production that leads to hyperpigmentation (dark spots caused by UV rays from sun exposure). Let’s explore how licorice root can provide relief and support for your complexion.

May Reduce Sensitivity and Irritation

Research suggests licorice root’s anti-inflammatory properties have the potential to help reduce sensitivity and soothe irritated skin. It may also help the treatment of skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, redness, itching, and discomfort often experienced by individuals with irritated skin. 

By calming inflammation, licorice root provides a gentle and soothing overall effect, similar to aloe vera gel or retinol, making it a suitable choice for those prone to skin sensitivity, discoloration, reaction, and swelling.

 

May Help Enhance Skin Barrier Function

Your skin’s barrier acts as a protective shield, preventing irritants from penetrating your skin and causing adverse reactions. Licorice root has shown an ability to improve skin barrier function, which is vital for inflamed skin. 

By supporting skin barrier function, licorice root can also help improve your skin’s defenses against external aggressors, like sun damage from UV rays, reducing the likelihood of irritation and promoting overall skin health.

Is Gentle and Well-Tolerated

One of the advantages of licorice root for inflamed skin is its gentle nature. It is generally well-tolerated and studies have shown that it’s less likely to cause adverse reactions than many other ingredients, making it suitable for individuals with all skin types. Unlike some harsher ingredients that may amplify sensitivity issues, licorice root offers a milder approach without compromising effectiveness.

Can Help Address Multiple Concerns

Licorice root’s multi-faceted properties make it a valuable ingredient for inflamed skin that may also have other concerns, such as redness, sensitivity, or forms of dryness. Licorice root’s multi-faceted remedies allow it to tackle multiple problems, making it a convenient choice for individuals looking for a comprehensive solution.

When incorporating licorice root into a skincare routine for your skin, it is important to choose USDA Certified Organic skincare products specifically formulated for sensitive skin types. Patch testing and consulting with a dermatologist are also recommended to ensure the best results and minimize the risk of any potential adverse reactions.

Licorice Root vs. Conventional Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients

Licorice root stands out from conventional anti-inflammatory ingredients for several reasons. First, it’s all-natural, which means it comes from plants and doesn’t contain synthetic chemicals. Plus, it’s generally well tolerated and not likely to cause side effects.

In contrast, some other anti-inflammatory medications, supplements, and formulas, like corticosteroids, can have strong effects on our bodies and skin. Long-term use of a corticosteroid cream may lead to hormonal imbalances, thinning of the skin, and increased risk of infections, among other health conditions. 

Licorice root offers gentler health benefits without the same risks, making it a popular choice for those seeking natural medicines. In fact, a study involving mild-moderate atopic dermatitis showed evidence that a licochalcone-containing formula, an antioxidant compound found in licorice root, improved atopic dermatitis symptoms. The impact was comparable to hydrocortisone lotion.

Moreover, licorice root’s multi-targeted approach sets it apart from many other anti-inflammatory ingredients that focus on only one aspect of inflammation, such as blemishes and melasma. Licorice root’s combination of active compounds, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and saponins, work together in different ways to combat the development of inflammation. This comprehensive approach increases the likelihood of your skin looking and feeling its best.

Calm Inflamed-Looking Skin with Licorice Root Extract

It’s clear that licorice root extract is a powerful skincare ingredient for those who deal with inflamed, irritated skin. But choosing the right skincare product is just as important as the ingredient itself. 

For the most benefits, look for a product that uses USDA Certified Organic licorice root to ensure you aren’t applying any harmful toxins to your skin.

If you are looking for a top-quality option, the Pur-Radiance cleanser from Purity Woods features organic licorice root extract and other pure botanical ingredients that help hydrate and cleanse your skin, all while giving it a calm and radiant appearance.

Learn more about the Pur-Radiance cleanser here and soothe your skin with licorice root!