What Are the Dangers of Licorice Root Extract?

This ingredient is extracted from the roots of licorice root, a plant in the family Fabaceae that is related to wisteria, clover, and peas. In skin care, it is listed under the I.N.C.I. name "Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract." It is mainly used for its stain-fighting and antioxidant properties.

Licorice root extract contains over 95% glabridin, a molecule known for its lightening effects. It inhibits the activity of tyrosinase. As a reminder, these enzymes are involved in the process of skin pigmentation called melanogenesis. They catalyze the formation of L-dopamine, but also the formation of dopaquinone, a precursor of skin pigments (black melanin and red melanin) stored by melanocytes. Therefore, glabridin is used when applied to the skin to unify the complexion and soften the appearance of stubborn melanin spots.