Ingredient review
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
INCI: Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate
A gentle, plant-derived powerhouse that calms redness, fades dark spots, and supports sensitive skin without irritation.
In plain English
Dipotassium glycyrrhizate is a salt form of glycyrrhizic acid, a compound found in licorice root. In skincare, it works like a natural fire extinguisher for your skin—it helps reduce redness, swelling, and irritation. It also has a mild brightening effect, meaning it can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone over time. Because it's very gentle, it's a favorite in products for sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Strong fit for many routines
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- natural
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Easy yes for most routines
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A water-soluble, salt derivative of glycyrrhizic acid, which is the main active compound in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). It is purified and stabilized for use in cosmetics.
How it works
It inhibits the activity of enzymes (like hyaluronidase and phospholipase A2) that trigger inflammation in the skin. It also reduces the production of melanin by inhibiting tyrosinase, which helps lighten hyperpigmentation. Additionally, it has a mild antioxidant effect, protecting skin from environmental stressors.
Pros
Calms irritation gently
Unlike some harsh anti-inflammatories, dipotassium glycyrrhizate soothes without stinging or drying, making it ideal for sensitive or compromised skin barriers.
Brightens without irritation
It helps fade dark spots and post-acne marks gradually, without the peeling or redness often associated with stronger brighteners like hydroquinone or high-strength vitamin C.
Cons and cautions
Milder brightening effect
For stubborn or deep hyperpigmentation, dipotassium glycyrrhizate may work more slowly than prescription-strength options, requiring consistent use over weeks to see results.
Effectiveness depends on formulation
Its soothing and brightening benefits are dose-dependent; a low concentration in a poorly formulated product may not deliver noticeable results.
Best for
- People with sensitive, redness-prone, or rosacea-prone skin
- Anyone looking for a gentle, natural brightener to even out skin tone
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or related plants (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Dipotassium glycyrrhizate is considered very safe for topical use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant side effects have been reported in cosmetic concentrations. Allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Research notes
Multiple in vitro and clinical studies support its anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening effects. A 2015 study found it significantly reduced erythema (redness) and improved skin tone evenness. However, most studies are small or industry-funded, so evidence is moderate rather than strong.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved as a cosmetic ingredient in the EU, US, and Asia. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for topical use at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Toner, Masks, Eye Creams
- Environmental note
- Licorice root is a renewable plant source, but overharvesting can be a concern. Look for brands that source sustainably or use certified organic licorice.
Good to know
- Dipotassium glycyrrhizate is often listed near the middle or end of ingredient lists because effective concentrations are low (0.1–2%).
- It is water-soluble, so it works well in serums, toners, and gel-based moisturizers.
Common questions
What is Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate in beauty products?
Dipotassium glycyrrhizate is a salt form of glycyrrhizic acid, a compound found in licorice root. In skincare, it works like a natural fire extinguisher for your skin—it helps reduce redness, swelling, and irritation. It also has a mild brightening effect, meaning it can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone over time. Because it's very gentle, it's a favorite in products for sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin.
What does Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate do in a beauty product?
It inhibits the activity of enzymes (like hyaluronidase and phospholipase A2) that trigger inflammation in the skin. It also reduces the production of melanin by inhibiting tyrosinase, which helps lighten hyperpigmentation. Additionally, it has a mild antioxidant effect, protecting skin from environmental stressors.
Is Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate safe for most people?
Dipotassium glycyrrhizate is considered very safe for topical use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk, and no significant side effects have been reported in cosmetic concentrations. Allergic reactions are extremely rare.
Who should be careful with Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate?
Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or related plants (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.