Benefits of Licorice Extract for your skin
The skin condition hyperpigmentation can be common for many. Despite its low severity, those who experience it would rather it go away sooner rather than later. Often brought on by acne, sun damage, or melasma, hyperpigmentation shows up as dark spots on the skin in the affected areas. A frequent remedy for hyperpigmentation is prescription hydroquinone creams. Its high potency tends to be effective in treating symptoms and is also available over the counter (OTC) at a lower dose.
Some users experience adverse reactions to hydroquinone creams, sometimes seeing their symptoms worsen rather than diminish. To avoid potential skin irritation, users have been seeking out alternative, more natural remedies, one of them being licorice root extract.
The root acts as a tyrosinase inhibitor, which is an active function you want when searching for hyperpigmentation treatments. Tyrosinase is an enzyme that is responsible for the initial phase of melanin production. By minimizing the production of these enzymes, the extract reduces the amount of discoloration appearing on the skin’s outer surface.
- Anti-Aging and Antioxidant Capabilities
When it comes to anti-aging ingredients, antioxidants are all the rage. These powerhouse ingredients act as multi-functioning resources, contributing everything from skin brightening to diminished aging signs. The licorice root helps target fine lines and wrinkles as well as other signs of oxidative stress, such as from environmental pollution. It helps to promote supple, smooth skin and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier.
Not only does the extract do all of this simultaneously, but it’s also known for its ability to increase elasticity in the skin. Licorice extract also helps to preserve the ingredient hyaluronic acid in the skin, a sugar molecule that maintains plumpness in the skin. This molecule can retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water, ensuring the skin maintains hydration and moisture.
Some of licorice root’s best-known advantages are to help calm inflammation and redness on the skin. Certain conditions such as atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and psoriasis have all been shown to diminish with the help of the versatile extract. The plant helps the skin’s barrier fight against free radicals, giving the epidermis an added boost of armor.
Dēpology Cica Redness Relief Nourishing Cleanser
Our fragrance and clog-free cleanser is well-formulated to benefit users of all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin. The active ingredient in the formula, cica, focuses on targeting redness and inflammation. It also is packed with antioxidant purposes such as overall improvement of elasticity in the skin.
Not only is the formula packed with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, but the cleanser also takes advantage of - you guessed it - licorice root. The soothing effects of the extract in the formula further emphasize inflammation relief as well as help to bring down any swelling one may experience. What’s left behind is skin that is well-nourished, plump, and brighter than before. Desired results are best achieved when applied twice daily, once in the AM and again in the PM before bed.
It should be noted that licorice root ingredients with similar capabilities should never be substituted for sunscreen. SPF 30 or above is often recommended to apply about 15-20 minutes before leaving the house and should be regularly applied every two hours to ensure your skin has protection against environmental stressors.
- Regulates Oil Production in the Skin
As if all of the above benefits aren't enough to convince you to include some licorice root in your skincare collection, those prone to oilier skin will also reap the advantages of this omnipotent plant. There has been scientific research on the effects of the licochalcone A compound that can help with oil regulation in the skin.
What makes the extract particularly unique is that it works as an emulsifier, which allows products with water and oil-based formulas to work together efficiently. It can be difficult for these formulas to cohabitate, but licorice root steps in to save the day yet again.
Which Ingredients Work Well With Licorice Extract?
Life would be lonely with friends, right? Thankfully licorice root has plenty of companions to keep company and build strong relationships. The extract itself already is packed with benefits and is non-comedogenic, so you don’t have to worry about clogged pores upon application.
Some ingredients that pair well with the extract include azelaic acid, shea butter, tranexamic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, to name a few. Due to its powerful antioxidant capabilities, the extract pairs well with fellow antioxidants such as niacinamide and Vitamin C, further boosting its skin brightening and anti-aging effects.
Everyone has to have an enemy, right? You’re going to want to steer clear of ingredients such as retinol and hydroquinone. These ingredients don’t mix well when paired with licorice root and can cause skin irritation and redness.