Ingredient review
Fermented Licorice & Rice Extract
INCI: Saccharomyces/Licorice Root Extract/Rice Ferment Extract Filtrate
A fermented botanical complex that combines the brightening and soothing properties of licorice root with the nourishing benefits of rice, enhanced by yeast fermentation for potentially better absorption.
In plain English
This ingredient is a blend of licorice root and rice that has been fermented with yeast (Saccharomyces). Fermentation breaks down the plant materials into smaller, more easily absorbed components. Licorice root is known for helping to calm redness and even out skin tone, while rice provides gentle nourishment and a soft feel. The result is a skin-friendly ingredient that may help brighten, soothe, and condition the skin without irritation.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
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
- biotech
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Fermented Licorice & Rice Extract 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 Fermented Licorice & Rice Extract.
- 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 fermented filtrate made by culturing Saccharomyces yeast with licorice root extract and rice ferment extract. The fermentation process creates a complex mixture of amino acids, peptides, sugars, and plant compounds.
How it works
The fermentation process breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones, which may help the skin absorb the beneficial compounds more easily. Licorice root contains glabridin, which can help inhibit tyrosinase (an enzyme involved in melanin production) and reduce the appearance of dark spots. Rice ferments are rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that support skin hydration and barrier function.
Pros
Gentle brightening
Licorice root's glabridin may help fade dark spots and even skin tone without the irritation often associated with stronger brighteners like hydroquinone.
Soothing properties
The fermentation process can enhance the soothing effects of licorice, making this ingredient suitable for calming redness and sensitivity.
Cons and cautions
Variable potency
The effectiveness of this ferment depends heavily on the specific fermentation process and concentrations used, which can vary between products.
Limited research
While individual components (licorice, rice, yeast ferments) have been studied, there is little peer-reviewed research on this specific combination.
Best for
- Those looking for a gentle brightening ingredient
- People with sensitive or redness-prone skin
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or rice
Usage tips
Safety summary
This fermented blend is considered safe for topical use. The individual components (licorice root, rice, and Saccharomyces) have a long history of use in cosmetics with a low risk of irritation. As with any ingredient, patch test before first use if you have sensitive skin.
Research notes
Licorice root extract has moderate evidence for skin brightening and anti-inflammatory effects. Rice ferments are known for their moisturizing and antioxidant properties. The combination via fermentation is a newer approach with promising anecdotal support but limited clinical studies.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU. No specific restrictions.
- Common uses
- Serums, Toners, Essences, Moisturizers
- Environmental note
- The fermentation process is relatively low-energy and can utilize agricultural by-products, making it a more sustainable option compared to some synthetic brighteners.
Good to know
- Fermented ingredients are often better tolerated by sensitive skin than their non-fermented counterparts.
- This ingredient is typically clear or slightly yellow in color and has a mild, earthy scent.
Common questions
What is Fermented Licorice & Rice Extract in beauty products?
This ingredient is a blend of licorice root and rice that has been fermented with yeast (Saccharomyces). Fermentation breaks down the plant materials into smaller, more easily absorbed components. Licorice root is known for helping to calm redness and even out skin tone, while rice provides gentle nourishment and a soft feel. The result is a skin-friendly ingredient that may help brighten, soothe, and condition the skin without irritation.
What does Fermented Licorice & Rice Extract do in a beauty product?
The fermentation process breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones, which may help the skin absorb the beneficial compounds more easily. Licorice root contains glabridin, which can help inhibit tyrosinase (an enzyme involved in melanin production) and reduce the appearance of dark spots. Rice ferments are rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that support skin hydration and barrier function.
Is Fermented Licorice & Rice Extract safe for most people?
This fermented blend is considered safe for topical use. The individual components (licorice root, rice, and Saccharomyces) have a long history of use in cosmetics with a low risk of irritation. As with any ingredient, patch test before first use if you have sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Fermented Licorice & Rice Extract?
Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or rice
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.