Ingredient review
Liquiritigenin
INCI: Liquiritigenin
A gentle licorice-derived antioxidant that helps calm redness and even out skin tone without irritation.
In plain English
Liquiritigenin is a natural compound found in licorice root. In skincare, it works as an antioxidant to protect skin from environmental damage, and it also helps soothe irritation and reduce the look of dark spots. Think of it as a calming, brightening helper that's very unlikely to cause breakouts or stinging.
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
Liquiritigenin 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 Liquiritigenin.
- 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 flavonoid (a type of plant compound) extracted from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza species). It is a smaller, more active relative of the better-known licorice ingredient glabridin.
How it works
It inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production, which can help fade hyperpigmentation. It also has antioxidant activity that neutralizes free radicals, and it reduces inflammatory signals in the skin, helping to calm redness and sensitivity.
Pros
Gentle on sensitive skin
Unlike some brightening ingredients (like hydroquinone or high-strength vitamin C), liquiritigenin is very unlikely to cause stinging, peeling, or irritation, making it suitable for reactive skin types.
Dual-action brightening and soothing
It not only helps fade dark spots by inhibiting melanin production but also calms redness, so it can improve overall skin evenness without triggering inflammation.
Cons and cautions
Modest evidence base
Most studies on liquiritigenin are lab-based or small-scale. There is less clinical data on its efficacy in real-world skincare compared to well-studied ingredients like niacinamide or kojic acid.
May not tackle stubborn pigmentation
For deep melasma or very dark spots, liquiritigenin alone may not be strong enough. It works best as part of a broader brightening routine.
Best for
- Anyone with sensitive or redness-prone skin looking for gentle brightening
- Those with mild hyperpigmentation or post-acne marks
Use caution if
- People seeking very fast or dramatic skin lightening results
Usage tips
Safety summary
Liquiritigenin is considered very safe for topical use. It has low irritation and allergy potential, and no known toxicity at typical cosmetic concentrations. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with extremely sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research shows liquiritigenin inhibits tyrosinase and has anti-inflammatory effects in cell and animal studies. Human clinical trials are limited, but existing data supports its use as a gentle brightening and soothing agent.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the US and EU. No specific restrictions, but always follow product usage guidelines.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Brightening Treatments
- Environmental note
- Licorice root is a renewable plant source, but overharvesting can be a concern. Look for brands that source sustainably.
Good to know
- Liquiritigenin is often found in products alongside other licorice derivatives like glabridin or dipotassium glycyrrhizate.
- It is not the same as licorice extract—it is a specific purified compound from licorice root.
Common questions
What is Liquiritigenin in beauty products?
Liquiritigenin is a natural compound found in licorice root. In skincare, it works as an antioxidant to protect skin from environmental damage, and it also helps soothe irritation and reduce the look of dark spots. Think of it as a calming, brightening helper that's very unlikely to cause breakouts or stinging.
What does Liquiritigenin do in a beauty product?
It inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production, which can help fade hyperpigmentation. It also has antioxidant activity that neutralizes free radicals, and it reduces inflammatory signals in the skin, helping to calm redness and sensitivity.
Is Liquiritigenin safe for most people?
Liquiritigenin is considered very safe for topical use. It has low irritation and allergy potential, and no known toxicity at typical cosmetic concentrations. As with any new ingredient, a patch test is recommended for those with extremely sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Liquiritigenin?
People seeking very fast or dramatic skin lightening results
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.