Ingredient review
Glycyrrhizic Acid
INCI: GLYCYRRHIZIC ACID
A gentle, plant-derived ingredient that helps calm redness and irritation, making it a great choice for sensitive or reactive skin.
In plain English
Glycyrrhizic acid is a natural compound found in licorice root. In skincare, it works like a calming agent—think of it as a soothing tea for your skin. It helps reduce redness, swelling, and irritation without being harsh, so it's often used in products for sensitive skin or after treatments like peels or laser.
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
Glycyrrhizic Acid 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 Glycyrrhizic Acid.
- 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 triterpenoid saponin compound extracted from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice). It is the primary active component responsible for licorice's anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
How it works
It inhibits enzymes that trigger inflammation (like cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase) and reduces the activity of pro-inflammatory molecules. This helps calm skin reactions, decrease redness, and support the skin's natural healing process.
Pros
Calms redness effectively
Glycyrrhizic acid helps visibly reduce facial redness and irritation, making it a go-to for sensitive skin types.
Gentle enough for daily use
Unlike some harsh anti-inflammatories, this ingredient is mild and can be used in everyday skincare without stripping or drying the skin.
Cons and cautions
May cause stinging at high levels
In rare cases, very high concentrations (above 2%) can cause a mild tingling or stinging sensation on already compromised skin.
Not a standalone treatment
While soothing, it does not address the root cause of chronic redness like rosacea or eczema on its own.
Best for
- People with sensitive, reactive, or redness-prone skin
- Those recovering from cosmetic procedures like chemical peels or microneedling
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergy to licorice or related plants
Usage tips
Safety summary
Glycyrrhizic acid is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. As with any ingredient, patch test if you have very sensitive skin or a known plant allergy.
Research notes
Multiple in vitro and clinical studies support its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. Evidence is moderate, with most studies focusing on its ability to reduce erythema (redness) and irritation. More large-scale human trials are needed for long-term safety data.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU, US, and other major markets. No specific concentration restrictions, but typical use is under 2%.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Masks, Post-procedure creams
- Environmental note
- Licorice root is a renewable plant source, but overharvesting can be a concern. Look for sustainably sourced or certified organic extracts.
Good to know
- Glycyrrhizic acid is different from glycyrrhetinic acid, which is a more potent derivative.
- It is often listed near the middle or end of ingredient lists because effective concentrations are low.
Common questions
What is Glycyrrhizic Acid in beauty products?
Glycyrrhizic acid is a natural compound found in licorice root. In skincare, it works like a calming agent—think of it as a soothing tea for your skin. It helps reduce redness, swelling, and irritation without being harsh, so it's often used in products for sensitive skin or after treatments like peels or laser.
What does Glycyrrhizic Acid do in a beauty product?
It inhibits enzymes that trigger inflammation (like cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase) and reduces the activity of pro-inflammatory molecules. This helps calm skin reactions, decrease redness, and support the skin's natural healing process.
Is Glycyrrhizic Acid safe for most people?
Glycyrrhizic acid is considered safe for topical cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. As with any ingredient, patch test if you have very sensitive skin or a known plant allergy.
Who should be careful with Glycyrrhizic Acid?
Individuals with known allergy to licorice or related plants
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.