Ingredient review
Licorice Root Water
INCI: Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Water
A gentle, plant-based water that helps calm redness and provides antioxidant protection without stripping the skin.
In plain English
Licorice root water is the watery part of the licorice plant, made by steaming the root and collecting the condensed steam. It contains natural compounds like glabridin and licochalcone that can help soothe irritated skin and fight free radicals. Unlike harsh extracts, this hydrosol is very mild and unlikely to cause irritation, making it a good choice for sensitive or redness-prone skin.
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
- natural
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Licorice Root Water 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 Licorice Root Water.
- 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 hydrosol (aromatic water) produced by steam-distilling the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice). It contains water-soluble components of the root, including flavonoids and saponins, but in lower concentrations than a standard extract.
How it works
When applied to the skin, the compounds in licorice root water help reduce the production of inflammatory signals in skin cells, which can calm redness and sensitivity. Its antioxidant content also neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution, helping to prevent premature aging.
Pros
Calms redness
Licorice root water contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce visible redness and soothe sensitive skin without stinging.
Antioxidant support
It provides a mild dose of antioxidants that help protect skin from daily environmental stressors like pollution and UV exposure.
Cons and cautions
Milder than extracts
Because it's a hydrosol, the concentration of active ingredients is lower than in a standard licorice root extract, so results may be subtle.
Potential allergen
Though rare, some people may be allergic to licorice root. Always patch test if you have a history of plant allergies.
Best for
- People with sensitive or easily irritated skin
- Those looking for a gentle, antioxidant-rich toner or mist
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or plants in the Fabaceae family
Usage tips
Safety summary
Licorice root water is considered very safe for topical use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. As with any plant ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with known plant allergies.
Research notes
Studies on licorice root compounds (glabridin, licochalcone) show anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in skin models. However, specific research on the hydrosol form is limited; most evidence comes from extract studies.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Up to 100% as a base, typically 5–50% in formulations
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use in the EU, US, and most major markets. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Toner, Serum, Moisturizer, Mist
- Environmental note
- Licorice root is typically farmed, and sustainable sourcing practices vary. Look for brands that mention ethical or organic sourcing if this is a concern.
Good to know
- Licorice root water is often used in products labeled 'clean' or 'natural' because it is a single-plant ingredient with minimal processing.
- It pairs well with other soothing ingredients like niacinamide or aloe vera for a calming routine.
Common questions
What is Licorice Root Water in beauty products?
Licorice root water is the watery part of the licorice plant, made by steaming the root and collecting the condensed steam. It contains natural compounds like glabridin and licochalcone that can help soothe irritated skin and fight free radicals. Unlike harsh extracts, this hydrosol is very mild and unlikely to cause irritation, making it a good choice for sensitive or redness-prone skin.
What does Licorice Root Water do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, the compounds in licorice root water help reduce the production of inflammatory signals in skin cells, which can calm redness and sensitivity. Its antioxidant content also neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution, helping to prevent premature aging.
Is Licorice Root Water safe for most people?
Licorice root water is considered very safe for topical use. It has a low irritation and comedogenic risk. As with any plant ingredient, patch testing is recommended for those with known plant allergies.
Who should be careful with Licorice Root Water?
Individuals with a known allergy to licorice or plants in the Fabaceae family
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.