In the world of skincare, there are many natural ingredients that can help improve the appearance of your skin. One of these amazing ingredients is licorice root extract.
Licorice root extract comes from a plant called Glycyrrhiza glabra and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It has a variety of special properties that can make your skin look healthier and more youthful.
In this article, we’ll explore the incredible health benefits licorice root extract brings to the table.
Top Benefits of Licorice Root Extract
May Help Combat Inflammation
One great benefit of licorice root extract is its ability to reduce inflammation. Glycyrrhizin, the main active compound found in the licorice plant, is shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
In fact, studies have shown promising results for the treatment of skin conditions like itchiness, eczema, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis, highlighting the potential of licorice extract to reduce redness, swelling, and itching. This means licorice root could help calm red or inflamed-looking skin.
Helps Your Skin Look Brighter
Licorice root extract has another great benefit—it can help make your skin tone look more even and reduce the appearance of dark spots (hyperpigmentation) on your face and body. Research has shown that glabridin, a compound found in licorice root, reduces the production of melanin.
Melanin is what gives your skin its color. Sometimes, our skin makes too much melanin in certain areas, causing dark spots, pigmentation, or discoloration to appear. This usually happens after too much sun exposure (UV rays from sunlight that can lead to sun damage) or after a skin problem like acne and blemishes. By slowing down melanin production, the glabridin in licorice root may help fade the appearance of those dark spots and make your skin tone look more even.
Has Antioxidant Properties for Skin
Licorice root extract is packed with powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants are like superheroes for the skin because they protect it from harmful free radicals. Free radicals can damage your skin cells and make your skin age faster.
Fortunately, licorice root extract has special compounds called licochalcone A and glabridin that are great at fighting off those free radicals. They work hard to neutralize them and help keep your skin protected from dullness and outside stressors.
May Help Protect Skin Elasticity
In addition to its anti-inflammatory and brightening properties, licorice root extract has also been shown to protect against environmental stressors. Stressors, like UV radiation from the sun, are responsible for the breakdown of skin elastin and collagen.
By preventing the breakdown of collagen and elastin, licorice root extract can help protect the skin’s natural elasticity and resilience. This can result in tighter-looking skin, reducing the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Helps Hydrate Skin
Licorice root extract also offers moisturizing and hydrating properties for the skin. It helps to attract and retain moisture, maintaining skin hydration and plumpness. By improving the skin’s moisture barrier, licorice root extract may also help prevent water loss, which can lead to dryness, scars, and dull-looking skin.
What to Consider Before Using Licorice Root Products
Before incorporating licorice root products into your skincare routine, it’s essential to consider a few factors to ensure their suitability for your skin. Here are some key components to keep in mind:
- Product quality: It’s crucial to choose high-quality licorice root skin care products from reputable brands. Look for beauty products that use standardized extraction methods to ensure the potency and effectiveness of the licorice root extract. Additionally, read product reviews and check for certifications, like USDA Certified Organic, to ensure the product’s quality and authenticity.
- Allergies or sensitivities: While licorice root extract is generally well-tolerated for most skin types, some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to this ingredient. Before using a new product, perform a patch test by applying a small amount of the product on a discreet area of your skin, such as the inner forearm. Wait for 24-48 hours and look for any adverse reactions, such as a rash, itching, or skin irritation.
- Compatibility with other skincare ingredients: Licorice root extract is generally safe to use alongside other skincare ingredients. However, it’s always wise to check with a dermatologist for any potential interactions or contraindications (for example, a serum, mask, or cream that contains popular ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, or retinol). If you are using prescription skincare products or have specific concerns, consult with a skincare professional to ensure the compatibility of licorice root extract products with your existing skincare routine.
Brighter, More Youthful-Looking Skin with Licorice Root
If you’re seeking an anti-aging facial cleanser that harnesses the benefits of licorice root extract, consider the Pur-Radiance cleanser by Purity Woods.
This exceptional product combines the power of organic licorice root extract with other pure botanical ingredients to cleanse, calm, and moisturize while promoting a youthful-looking complexion. Plus, Pur-Radiance is USDA Certified Organic, which means zero toxins or synthetic ingredients that might harm your skin.
Discover more information about the Pur-Radiance cleanser and enjoy the power of licorice root!
