{"id":1698722,"date":"2026-01-02T12:15:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-02T09:15:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1698722"},"modified":"2026-01-02T12:15:00","modified_gmt":"2026-01-02T09:15:00","slug":"licorice-extract-can-fade-dark-spots-yes-really-heres-exactly-how-derms-say-to-use-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1698722","title":{"rendered":"Licorice Extract Can Fade Dark Spots (Yes, Really)\u2014Here&#8217;s Exactly How Derms Say to Use It"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><main id=\"main_1-0\" class=\"comp main layout-body--continuous-scroll mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--three-column sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">Licorice Extract Can Fade Dark Spots (Yes, Really)\u2014Here&#8217;s Exactly How Derms Say to Use It<\/h1>\n<p id=\"article-subheading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-subheading mntl-text-block\">Find out who should, and shouldn&#8217;t, use it.<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Melanie Rud is a beauty writer with over 15 years of editorial experience, known for her expertise in skincare and product research. At Byrdie, she covers a range of beauty and lifestyle topics\u2014especially gift guides\u2014and personally tests the products she features.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Melanie Rud Chadwick<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"person on black background wearing black clothing posing for the camera\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/screenshot2024-06-26at3-38-07pm-45a75e26a15a4328ae69e7d46fc2ab7b-1.webp\" title=\"screenshot2024-06-26at3-38-07pm-45a75e26a15a4328ae69e7d46fc2ab7b-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/screenshot2024-06-26at3-38-07pm-45a75e26a15a4328ae69e7d46fc2ab7b-1.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"person on black background wearing black clothing posing for the camera\" title=\"screenshot2024-06-26at3-38-07pm-45a75e26a15a4328ae69e7d46fc2ab7b-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nMelanie Rud Chadwick\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--linkedin\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nMelanie Rud is a beauty writer with over 15 years of editorial experience, known for her expertise in skincare and product research. At Byrdie, she covers a range of beauty and lifestyle topics\u2014especially gift guides\u2014and personally tests the products she features.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on January 02, 2026 07:15AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--beauty_wellness_reviewer\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Julia A. Siegel, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Boston, Massachusetts. She is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and has authored several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters.\u00a0\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Julia A. Siegel, MD<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Julia Siegel\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/juliasiegel-e3dee3e76304428b9357e4fe8da1a50b-3.webp\" title=\"juliasiegel-e3dee3e76304428b9357e4fe8da1a50b-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/juliasiegel-e3dee3e76304428b9357e4fe8da1a50b-3.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Julia Siegel\" title=\"juliasiegel-e3dee3e76304428b9357e4fe8da1a50b-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Reviewed by<\/span><br \/>\nJulia A. Siegel, MD\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nJulia A. Siegel, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Boston, Massachusetts. She is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and has authored several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters.\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nAbout Byrdie&#8217;s Beauty &amp; Wellness Board\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-postscript\">Board-Certified Dermatologist<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--fact_checker\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Fact checked by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Anna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Anna Harris<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top mntl-author-tooltip__top--no-image\">\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Fact checked by<\/span><br \/>\nAnna Harris\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nAnna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nLEARN ABOUT BYRDIE&#8217;S EDITORIAL GUIDELINES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-left-rail\">\n<div id=\"beauty-sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-sticky-toc mntl-block js-sticky-container sticky-toc__wrapper\">\n<div id=\"sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc mntl-universal-sticky-toc mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block sticky-toc-widget\" data-desktop-bp=\"70em\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading mntl-block js-toc-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle__btn_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle__btn mntl-text-block js-mntl-toc-toggle text-label-300\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" data-collapsed-text=\"View All\" data-expanded-text=\"View Less\">View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__mobile-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__mobile-toggle mntl-block js-sticky-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-toc__list_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list mntl-toc__list-heading expert-content text-utility-300\">\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What Is Licorice Extract?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Benefits<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Side Effects<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">How to Use It<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">FAQs<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2.webp\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" alt=\"A person examining their facial skin in a handheld mirror\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2.webp\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A person examining their facial skin in a handheld mirror\" title=\"skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Licorice extract inhibits tyrosinase production to effectively minimize dark spots and even out skin tone.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>It&#8217;s safe to use licorice extract up to twice daily, though it may irritate sensitive skin.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Avoid using licorice extract with retinol or hydroquinone to prevent potential skin irritation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking for a way to achieve your bright, glowy skin goals without a pricey trip to the dermatologist? Allow us to introduce you to licorice extract. This powerhouse ingredient brightens like professional-grade (and slightly problematic) hydroquinone, but without the serious drawbacks or $$$. We&#8217;ve tapped dermatologists, Rita Linkner and Jennifer Chwalek to give us the breakdown. <strong>Keep reading to learn more about licorice extract, and how it can help to brighten your complexion.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Rita Linkner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of RVL Skincare, PC, a concierge care cosmetic dermatology practice.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Jennifer Chwalek, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. She practices out of Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Licorice Extract? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Like the sweet treat, it all comes back to the licorice plant (scientific term: Glycyrrhiza glabra&#8230;we&#8217;ll just call it the licorice plant). The root of the plant has been used for medicinal purposes for years and is where black licorice and candy comes from, but it&#8217;s also the source of licorice extract used topically for skin. This extract is filled with a variety of beneficial compounds, which do everything from delivering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to helping fade dark spots. It&#8217;s the latter that makes it a choice ingredient in many skin-brightening products. It even acts similarly to hydroquinone (more on that in a minute), considered to be the gold-standard brightening ingredient, though notorious for its unwanted side effects and even potential safety concerns.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--ffingredients beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-ffingredients\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Licorice Extract<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p><strong>Type of ingredient: <\/strong>Skin brightener<\/p>\n<p><strong>Main benefits: <\/strong>Inhibits the production of an enzyme needed to produce melanin (pigment) in the skin, helps remove excess melanin, has anti-inflammatory benefits.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Who should use it: <\/strong>Anyone looking to reap the spot-fading, skin tone-evening benefits, as well as those looking to soothe irritated skin. Do not use if pregnant.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How often can you use it: <\/strong>This largely depends on the particular product formulation, but in most cases, once or twice a day, maximum, says Dr. Chwalek.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Works well with: <\/strong>Because of its main benefits, it&#8217;s often mixed with other antioxidants and skin brighteners, such as niacinamide and vitamin C.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Don&#8217;t use with: <\/strong>Because it does have the potential to be somewhat irritating, Dr. Linkner advises not using it in conjunction with retinol and\/or hydroquinone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Benefits of Licorice Extract For Skin <\/span><\/h2>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li><strong>Minimizes the production of tyrosinase to combat discoloration: <\/strong>The production of melanin (AKA pigment or color) is a complicated process, but at the heart of the matter is an enzyme known as tyrosinase. Licorice extract inhibits the production of tyrosinase, in turn inhibiting the production of dark spots.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Removes excess melanin: <\/strong>Licorice extract brightens the skin in another way, too. &#8220;It contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps to disperse and remove existing melanin in the skin,&#8221; explains Dr. Chwalek. In other words, not only can it help prevent new spots from forming, but it can also fade existing ones.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Acts as a potent antioxidant: <\/strong>Like many other plant-based extracts, licorice contains a flavonoid, an antioxidant-rich component that decreases reactive oxygen species, which both age and discolor the skin, says Dr. Linkner.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Offers anti-inflammatory benefits:<\/strong> While the flavonoid is anti-inflammatory itself, there&#8217;s yet another molecule, licochalcone A, which inhibits two inflammatory markers that trigger the inflammatory cascade, Dr. Chwalek says.<\/li>\n<li><strong>May help control oil production in the skin:<\/strong> Though this isn&#8217;t one of the more commonly agreed upon benefits, Dr. Chwalek says that there&#8217;s some evidence to suggest that the licochalcone compound may have the added benefit of regulating oil production. It may even be why licorice extract is often used in Ayurvedic medicine as a dandruff treatment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Side Effects of Licorice Extract <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> While this is a rare allergen\u2014meaning it&#8217;s unlikely to cause an actual allergy\u2014depending on what other ingredients licorice extract is mixed with, it can sometimes cause a reaction, notes Dr. Chwalek. Dr. Linkner adds that some people, especially those with sensitive skin could experience irritation. As a general rule, if you&#8217;re concerned about it stressing out your skin, try any new products out on a small test spot before applying all over your face.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> How to Use It <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Like other spot-faders, it&#8217;s a good idea to look for this in a serum, which will be more concentrated and contain higher amounts of the ingredient. Per the point about it being potentially irritating, be sure to follow exact product directions when it comes to how often and when to use it. And, while it should go without saying, be extra diligent about sun protection and daily SPF when using licorice extract (or any ingredient targeting hyperpigmentation). Sun exposure may counteract and thwart any of your skin-brightening efforts.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> We like Topicals\u00a0Faded Serum for Dark Spots &amp; Discoloration. Along with licorice root, this product also contains other high-powered skin-brightening ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid. Shea butter gives it a rich, hydrating texture that&#8217;s great for dry skin, and centella asiatica helps calm inflammation.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-faq--expanded beauty-sc-block-faq mntl-sc-block-faq mntl-block is-expanded\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__title mntl-text-block\">FAQ<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__content mntl-accordion \" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"1\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_1-0-section-0\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Does licorice root extract lighten your skin tone?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Long story short, yes. Studies have shown that licorice root extract contains compounds called liquiritin and licochalcone, both of which inhibit your body from making tyrosinase. This slows down the process where your skin produces melanin, so over time, your skin might become lighter in treated areas.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"2\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_2-0-section-1\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Is licorice root extract suitable for acne-prone skin?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Licorice root extract is a rare sensitizer; as such, it should be safe for sensitive or acne-prone skin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"3\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_3-0-section-2\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">How often can you use licorice root extract in your skincare routine?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>In most cases, products containing licorice root extract are safe to use up to two times a day, according to Dr. Chwalek.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>Sarkar R, Arora P, Garg KV. Cosmeceuticals for hyperpigmentation: what is available?\u00a0<em>J Cutan Aesthet Surg<\/em>. 2013;6(1):4-11. doi:10.4103\/0974-2077.110089<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-2\">\n<p>Frattaruolo L, Carullo G, Brindisi M, et al. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of flavanones from\u00a0g<em>lycyrrhiza glabra<\/em>\u00a0L. (licorice) leaf phytocomplexes: identification of licoflavanone as a modulator of NF-kB\/MAPK pathway.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(6):186. doi:10.3390\/antiox8060186<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-7\">\n<p>Ciganovi\u0107 P, Jakimiuk K, Tomczyk M, Zovko Kon\u010di\u0107 M. Glycerolic licorice extracts as active cosmeceutical ingredients: extraction optimization, chemical characterization, and biological activity.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(10):445.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-6\">\n<p>Ciganovi\u0107 P, Jakimiuk K, Tomczyk M, Zovko Kon\u010di\u0107 M. Glycerolic licorice extracts as active cosmeceutical ingredients: extraction optimization, chemical characterization, and biological activity.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(10):445. doi:10.3390\/antiox8100445<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-4\">\n<p>Kimyon RS, Liou YL, Schlarbaum JP, Warshaw EM. Allergic contact dermatitis to licorice root extract.\u00a0<em>Dermatitis<\/em>. 2019;30(3):227-228. doi:10.1097\/DER.0000000000000475<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Skin<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Skincare Ingredients A\u2013Z<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div id=\"recirc_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h2 id=\"recirc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc__heading mntl-text-block\">Related Stories<\/h2>\n<ul id=\"card-list-1_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list-1 card-list mntl-block l-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"card-list__item_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Closeup of a smiling person with a skincare product applied to their face\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/zinc-1-b72a419bb6134ffeabf5f7169d315fd7-3.webp\" title=\"zinc-1-b72a419bb6134ffeabf5f7169d315fd7-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/zinc-1-b72a419bb6134ffeabf5f7169d315fd7-3.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Closeup of a smiling person with a skincare product applied to their face\" title=\"zinc-1-b72a419bb6134ffeabf5f7169d315fd7-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Zinc Is the Underrated Fix for Acne and Skin Inflammation <\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_2-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Ginger root and sliced ginger arranged artistically\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ginger-1-d42df699c9d642aa83908b2b09e30ad5.webp\" title=\"ginger-1-d42df699c9d642aa83908b2b09e30ad5\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/ginger-1-d42df699c9d642aa83908b2b09e30ad5.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Ginger root and sliced ginger arranged artistically\" title=\"ginger-1-d42df699c9d642aa83908b2b09e30ad5\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The Benefits of Using Ginger for Skin, According to Dermatologists<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_3-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Assortment of pills and capsules\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/silica-2-a595f2498a1143f2ad09cef35a9816aa-1.webp\" title=\"silica-2-a595f2498a1143f2ad09cef35a9816aa-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/silica-2-a595f2498a1143f2ad09cef35a9816aa-1.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Assortment of pills and capsules\" title=\"silica-2-a595f2498a1143f2ad09cef35a9816aa-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Are Silica Supplements the New Collagen? 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mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Person wearing a metallic face mask for skincare treatment\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/facial-2-c6e21fac46d24a74a3fdca37a4670a90-1.webp\" title=\"facial-2-c6e21fac46d24a74a3fdca37a4670a90-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/facial-2-c6e21fac46d24a74a3fdca37a4670a90-1.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"Person wearing a metallic face mask for skincare treatment\" title=\"facial-2-c6e21fac46d24a74a3fdca37a4670a90-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Derms Share How Often You Should Be Getting Facials (There&#8217;s an Important Rule of Thumb)<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_15-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A woman with long gray hair one hand touching her hair and the other on her shoulder\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/menopause-2-22bdd503c94748e3b16a4a06ea77cca0-3.webp\" title=\"menopause-2-22bdd503c94748e3b16a4a06ea77cca0-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/menopause-2-22bdd503c94748e3b16a4a06ea77cca0-3.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A woman with long gray hair one hand touching her hair and the other on her shoulder\" title=\"menopause-2-22bdd503c94748e3b16a4a06ea77cca0-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Menopausal Acne Happens, And You Have Options\u2014 Find the Best Treatment For You Here<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_16-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"A person's face after applying Tula Skincare Beauty Sleep Overnight Repair Treatment and a person applying the Derma-E Ultra Hydrating Advanced Repair Night Cream to their cheek\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-best-night-creams-tout-2-recirc-d412a8c0a1e948a2bb42503e06a14c09-3.webp\" title=\"the-best-night-creams-tout-2-recirc-d412a8c0a1e948a2bb42503e06a14c09-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/the-best-night-creams-tout-2-recirc-d412a8c0a1e948a2bb42503e06a14c09-3.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person's face after applying Tula Skincare Beauty Sleep Overnight Repair Treatment and a person applying the Derma-E Ultra Hydrating Advanced Repair Night Cream to their cheek\" title=\"the-best-night-creams-tout-2-recirc-d412a8c0a1e948a2bb42503e06a14c09-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">12 Best Night Creams to Wake Up With Glowing Skin, According to Testers and Derms<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/main><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--three-column sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">Licorice Extract Can Fade Dark Spots (Yes, Really)\u2014Here&#8217;s Exactly How Derms Say to Use It<\/h1>\n<p id=\"article-subheading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-subheading mntl-text-block\">Find out who should, and shouldn&#8217;t, use it.<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Melanie Rud is a beauty writer with over 15 years of editorial experience, known for her expertise in skincare and product research. At Byrdie, she covers a range of beauty and lifestyle topics\u2014especially gift guides\u2014and personally tests the products she features.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Melanie Rud Chadwick<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"person on black background wearing black clothing posing for the camera\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/screenshot2024-06-26at3-38-07pm-45a75e26a15a4328ae69e7d46fc2ab7b-1.webp\" title=\"screenshot2024-06-26at3-38-07pm-45a75e26a15a4328ae69e7d46fc2ab7b-1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/screenshot2024-06-26at3-38-07pm-45a75e26a15a4328ae69e7d46fc2ab7b-1.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"person on black background wearing black clothing posing for the camera\" title=\"screenshot2024-06-26at3-38-07pm-45a75e26a15a4328ae69e7d46fc2ab7b-1\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nMelanie Rud Chadwick\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--linkedin\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nMelanie Rud is a beauty writer with over 15 years of editorial experience, known for her expertise in skincare and product research. At Byrdie, she covers a range of beauty and lifestyle topics\u2014especially gift guides\u2014and personally tests the products she features.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on January 02, 2026 07:15AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--beauty_wellness_reviewer\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Reviewed by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Julia A. Siegel, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Boston, Massachusetts. She is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and has authored several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters.\u00a0\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Julia A. Siegel, MD<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top \">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__image-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Julia Siegel\" class=\"lazyload mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/juliasiegel-e3dee3e76304428b9357e4fe8da1a50b-3.webp\" title=\"juliasiegel-e3dee3e76304428b9357e4fe8da1a50b-3\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/juliasiegel-e3dee3e76304428b9357e4fe8da1a50b-3.webp\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" class=\"img--noscript mntl-author-tooltip__image mntl-image universal-image__image\" alt=\"Julia Siegel\" title=\"juliasiegel-e3dee3e76304428b9357e4fe8da1a50b-3\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Reviewed by<\/span><br \/>\nJulia A. Siegel, MD\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nJulia A. Siegel, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Boston, Massachusetts. She is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and has authored several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters.\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nAbout Byrdie&#8217;s Beauty &amp; Wellness Board\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-postscript\">Board-Certified Dermatologist<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--fact_checker\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Fact checked by<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Anna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Anna Harris<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top mntl-author-tooltip__top--no-image\">\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">Fact checked by<\/span><br \/>\nAnna Harris\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nAnna Harris is an experienced fact-checker and researcher and a beauty writer and editor.\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nLEARN ABOUT BYRDIE&#8217;S EDITORIAL GUIDELINES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-left-rail\">\n<div id=\"beauty-sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-sticky-toc mntl-block js-sticky-container sticky-toc__wrapper\">\n<div id=\"sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc mntl-universal-sticky-toc mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block sticky-toc-widget\" data-desktop-bp=\"70em\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading mntl-block js-toc-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle__btn_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle__btn mntl-text-block js-mntl-toc-toggle text-label-300\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" data-collapsed-text=\"View All\" data-expanded-text=\"View Less\">View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__mobile-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__mobile-toggle mntl-block js-sticky-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-toc__list_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list mntl-toc__list-heading expert-content text-utility-300\">\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What Is Licorice Extract?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Benefits<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Side Effects<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">How to Use It<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">FAQs<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2.webp\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" alt=\"A person examining their facial skin in a handheld mirror\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2.webp\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A person examining their facial skin in a handheld mirror\" title=\"skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Licorice extract inhibits tyrosinase production to effectively minimize dark spots and even out skin tone.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>It&#8217;s safe to use licorice extract up to twice daily, though it may irritate sensitive skin.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Avoid using licorice extract with retinol or hydroquinone to prevent potential skin irritation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking for a way to achieve your bright, glowy skin goals without a pricey trip to the dermatologist? Allow us to introduce you to licorice extract. This powerhouse ingredient brightens like professional-grade (and slightly problematic) hydroquinone, but without the serious drawbacks or $$$. We&#8217;ve tapped dermatologists, Rita Linkner and Jennifer Chwalek to give us the breakdown. <strong>Keep reading to learn more about licorice extract, and how it can help to brighten your complexion.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Rita Linkner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of RVL Skincare, PC, a concierge care cosmetic dermatology practice.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Jennifer Chwalek, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. She practices out of Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Licorice Extract? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Like the sweet treat, it all comes back to the licorice plant (scientific term: Glycyrrhiza glabra&#8230;we&#8217;ll just call it the licorice plant). The root of the plant has been used for medicinal purposes for years and is where black licorice and candy comes from, but it&#8217;s also the source of licorice extract used topically for skin. This extract is filled with a variety of beneficial compounds, which do everything from delivering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to helping fade dark spots. It&#8217;s the latter that makes it a choice ingredient in many skin-brightening products. It even acts similarly to hydroquinone (more on that in a minute), considered to be the gold-standard brightening ingredient, though notorious for its unwanted side effects and even potential safety concerns.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--ffingredients beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-ffingredients\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Licorice Extract<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p><strong>Type of ingredient: <\/strong>Skin brightener<\/p>\n<p><strong>Main benefits: <\/strong>Inhibits the production of an enzyme needed to produce melanin (pigment) in the skin, helps remove excess melanin, has anti-inflammatory benefits.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Who should use it: <\/strong>Anyone looking to reap the spot-fading, skin tone-evening benefits, as well as those looking to soothe irritated skin. Do not use if pregnant.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How often can you use it: <\/strong>This largely depends on the particular product formulation, but in most cases, once or twice a day, maximum, says Dr. Chwalek.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Works well with: <\/strong>Because of its main benefits, it&#8217;s often mixed with other antioxidants and skin brighteners, such as niacinamide and vitamin C.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Don&#8217;t use with: <\/strong>Because it does have the potential to be somewhat irritating, Dr. Linkner advises not using it in conjunction with retinol and\/or hydroquinone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Benefits of Licorice Extract For Skin <\/span><\/h2>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li><strong>Minimizes the production of tyrosinase to combat discoloration: <\/strong>The production of melanin (AKA pigment or color) is a complicated process, but at the heart of the matter is an enzyme known as tyrosinase. Licorice extract inhibits the production of tyrosinase, in turn inhibiting the production of dark spots.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Removes excess melanin: <\/strong>Licorice extract brightens the skin in another way, too. &#8220;It contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps to disperse and remove existing melanin in the skin,&#8221; explains Dr. Chwalek. In other words, not only can it help prevent new spots from forming, but it can also fade existing ones.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Acts as a potent antioxidant: <\/strong>Like many other plant-based extracts, licorice contains a flavonoid, an antioxidant-rich component that decreases reactive oxygen species, which both age and discolor the skin, says Dr. Linkner.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Offers anti-inflammatory benefits:<\/strong> While the flavonoid is anti-inflammatory itself, there&#8217;s yet another molecule, licochalcone A, which inhibits two inflammatory markers that trigger the inflammatory cascade, Dr. Chwalek says.<\/li>\n<li><strong>May help control oil production in the skin:<\/strong> Though this isn&#8217;t one of the more commonly agreed upon benefits, Dr. Chwalek says that there&#8217;s some evidence to suggest that the licochalcone compound may have the added benefit of regulating oil production. It may even be why licorice extract is often used in Ayurvedic medicine as a dandruff treatment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Side Effects of Licorice Extract <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> While this is a rare allergen\u2014meaning it&#8217;s unlikely to cause an actual allergy\u2014depending on what other ingredients licorice extract is mixed with, it can sometimes cause a reaction, notes Dr. Chwalek. Dr. Linkner adds that some people, especially those with sensitive skin could experience irritation. As a general rule, if you&#8217;re concerned about it stressing out your skin, try any new products out on a small test spot before applying all over your face.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> How to Use It <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Like other spot-faders, it&#8217;s a good idea to look for this in a serum, which will be more concentrated and contain higher amounts of the ingredient. Per the point about it being potentially irritating, be sure to follow exact product directions when it comes to how often and when to use it. And, while it should go without saying, be extra diligent about sun protection and daily SPF when using licorice extract (or any ingredient targeting hyperpigmentation). Sun exposure may counteract and thwart any of your skin-brightening efforts.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> We like Topicals\u00a0Faded Serum for Dark Spots &amp; Discoloration. Along with licorice root, this product also contains other high-powered skin-brightening ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid. Shea butter gives it a rich, hydrating texture that&#8217;s great for dry skin, and centella asiatica helps calm inflammation.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-faq--expanded beauty-sc-block-faq mntl-sc-block-faq mntl-block is-expanded\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__title mntl-text-block\">FAQ<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__content mntl-accordion \" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"1\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_1-0-section-0\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Does licorice root extract lighten your skin tone?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Long story short, yes. Studies have shown that licorice root extract contains compounds called liquiritin and licochalcone, both of which inhibit your body from making tyrosinase. This slows down the process where your skin produces melanin, so over time, your skin might become lighter in treated areas.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"2\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_2-0-section-1\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Is licorice root extract suitable for acne-prone skin?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Licorice root extract is a rare sensitizer; as such, it should be safe for sensitive or acne-prone skin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"3\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_3-0-section-2\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">How often can you use licorice root extract in your skincare routine?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>In most cases, products containing licorice root extract are safe to use up to two times a day, according to Dr. Chwalek.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>Sarkar R, Arora P, Garg KV. Cosmeceuticals for hyperpigmentation: what is available?\u00a0<em>J Cutan Aesthet Surg<\/em>. 2013;6(1):4-11. doi:10.4103\/0974-2077.110089<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-2\">\n<p>Frattaruolo L, Carullo G, Brindisi M, et al. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of flavanones from\u00a0g<em>lycyrrhiza glabra<\/em>\u00a0L. (licorice) leaf phytocomplexes: identification of licoflavanone as a modulator of NF-kB\/MAPK pathway.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(6):186. doi:10.3390\/antiox8060186<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-7\">\n<p>Ciganovi\u0107 P, Jakimiuk K, Tomczyk M, Zovko Kon\u010di\u0107 M. Glycerolic licorice extracts as active cosmeceutical ingredients: extraction optimization, chemical characterization, and biological activity.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(10):445.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-6\">\n<p>Ciganovi\u0107 P, Jakimiuk K, Tomczyk M, Zovko Kon\u010di\u0107 M. Glycerolic licorice extracts as active cosmeceutical ingredients: extraction optimization, chemical characterization, and biological activity.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(10):445. doi:10.3390\/antiox8100445<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-4\">\n<p>Kimyon RS, Liou YL, Schlarbaum JP, Warshaw EM. Allergic contact dermatitis to licorice root extract.\u00a0<em>Dermatitis<\/em>. 2019;30(3):227-228. doi:10.1097\/DER.0000000000000475<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Skin<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Skincare Ingredients A\u2013Z<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2.webp\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" alt=\"A person examining their facial skin in a handheld mirror\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2.webp\" width=\"1280\" height=\"960\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"A person examining their facial skin in a handheld mirror\" title=\"skin-2-b7f631751c7740dba40c7015fe4d09ee-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Licorice extract inhibits tyrosinase production to effectively minimize dark spots and even out skin tone.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>It&#8217;s safe to use licorice extract up to twice daily, though it may irritate sensitive skin.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Avoid using licorice extract with retinol or hydroquinone to prevent potential skin irritation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking for a way to achieve your bright, glowy skin goals without a pricey trip to the dermatologist? Allow us to introduce you to licorice extract. This powerhouse ingredient brightens like professional-grade (and slightly problematic) hydroquinone, but without the serious drawbacks or $$$. We&#8217;ve tapped dermatologists, Rita Linkner and Jennifer Chwalek to give us the breakdown. <strong>Keep reading to learn more about licorice extract, and how it can help to brighten your complexion.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Rita Linkner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of RVL Skincare, PC, a concierge care cosmetic dermatology practice.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Jennifer Chwalek, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. She practices out of Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Licorice Extract? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Like the sweet treat, it all comes back to the licorice plant (scientific term: Glycyrrhiza glabra&#8230;we&#8217;ll just call it the licorice plant). The root of the plant has been used for medicinal purposes for years and is where black licorice and candy comes from, but it&#8217;s also the source of licorice extract used topically for skin. This extract is filled with a variety of beneficial compounds, which do everything from delivering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to helping fade dark spots. It&#8217;s the latter that makes it a choice ingredient in many skin-brightening products. It even acts similarly to hydroquinone (more on that in a minute), considered to be the gold-standard brightening ingredient, though notorious for its unwanted side effects and even potential safety concerns.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--ffingredients beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-ffingredients\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Licorice Extract<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p><strong>Type of ingredient: <\/strong>Skin brightener<\/p>\n<p><strong>Main benefits: <\/strong>Inhibits the production of an enzyme needed to produce melanin (pigment) in the skin, helps remove excess melanin, has anti-inflammatory benefits.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Who should use it: <\/strong>Anyone looking to reap the spot-fading, skin tone-evening benefits, as well as those looking to soothe irritated skin. Do not use if pregnant.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How often can you use it: <\/strong>This largely depends on the particular product formulation, but in most cases, once or twice a day, maximum, says Dr. Chwalek.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Works well with: <\/strong>Because of its main benefits, it&#8217;s often mixed with other antioxidants and skin brighteners, such as niacinamide and vitamin C.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Don&#8217;t use with: <\/strong>Because it does have the potential to be somewhat irritating, Dr. Linkner advises not using it in conjunction with retinol and\/or hydroquinone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Benefits of Licorice Extract For Skin <\/span><\/h2>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li><strong>Minimizes the production of tyrosinase to combat discoloration: <\/strong>The production of melanin (AKA pigment or color) is a complicated process, but at the heart of the matter is an enzyme known as tyrosinase. Licorice extract inhibits the production of tyrosinase, in turn inhibiting the production of dark spots.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Removes excess melanin: <\/strong>Licorice extract brightens the skin in another way, too. &#8220;It contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps to disperse and remove existing melanin in the skin,&#8221; explains Dr. Chwalek. In other words, not only can it help prevent new spots from forming, but it can also fade existing ones.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Acts as a potent antioxidant: <\/strong>Like many other plant-based extracts, licorice contains a flavonoid, an antioxidant-rich component that decreases reactive oxygen species, which both age and discolor the skin, says Dr. Linkner.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Offers anti-inflammatory benefits:<\/strong> While the flavonoid is anti-inflammatory itself, there&#8217;s yet another molecule, licochalcone A, which inhibits two inflammatory markers that trigger the inflammatory cascade, Dr. Chwalek says.<\/li>\n<li><strong>May help control oil production in the skin:<\/strong> Though this isn&#8217;t one of the more commonly agreed upon benefits, Dr. Chwalek says that there&#8217;s some evidence to suggest that the licochalcone compound may have the added benefit of regulating oil production. It may even be why licorice extract is often used in Ayurvedic medicine as a dandruff treatment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Side Effects of Licorice Extract <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> While this is a rare allergen\u2014meaning it&#8217;s unlikely to cause an actual allergy\u2014depending on what other ingredients licorice extract is mixed with, it can sometimes cause a reaction, notes Dr. Chwalek. Dr. Linkner adds that some people, especially those with sensitive skin could experience irritation. As a general rule, if you&#8217;re concerned about it stressing out your skin, try any new products out on a small test spot before applying all over your face.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> How to Use It <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Like other spot-faders, it&#8217;s a good idea to look for this in a serum, which will be more concentrated and contain higher amounts of the ingredient. Per the point about it being potentially irritating, be sure to follow exact product directions when it comes to how often and when to use it. And, while it should go without saying, be extra diligent about sun protection and daily SPF when using licorice extract (or any ingredient targeting hyperpigmentation). Sun exposure may counteract and thwart any of your skin-brightening efforts.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> We like Topicals\u00a0Faded Serum for Dark Spots &amp; Discoloration. Along with licorice root, this product also contains other high-powered skin-brightening ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid. Shea butter gives it a rich, hydrating texture that&#8217;s great for dry skin, and centella asiatica helps calm inflammation.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-faq--expanded beauty-sc-block-faq mntl-sc-block-faq mntl-block is-expanded\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__title mntl-text-block\">FAQ<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__content mntl-accordion \" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"1\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_1-0-section-0\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Does licorice root extract lighten your skin tone?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Long story short, yes. Studies have shown that licorice root extract contains compounds called liquiritin and licochalcone, both of which inhibit your body from making tyrosinase. This slows down the process where your skin produces melanin, so over time, your skin might become lighter in treated areas.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"2\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_2-0-section-1\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Is licorice root extract suitable for acne-prone skin?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Licorice root extract is a rare sensitizer; as such, it should be safe for sensitive or acne-prone skin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"3\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_3-0-section-2\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">How often can you use licorice root extract in your skincare routine?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>In most cases, products containing licorice root extract are safe to use up to two times a day, according to Dr. Chwalek.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>Sarkar R, Arora P, Garg KV. Cosmeceuticals for hyperpigmentation: what is available?\u00a0<em>J Cutan Aesthet Surg<\/em>. 2013;6(1):4-11. doi:10.4103\/0974-2077.110089<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-2\">\n<p>Frattaruolo L, Carullo G, Brindisi M, et al. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of flavanones from\u00a0g<em>lycyrrhiza glabra<\/em>\u00a0L. (licorice) leaf phytocomplexes: identification of licoflavanone as a modulator of NF-kB\/MAPK pathway.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(6):186. doi:10.3390\/antiox8060186<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-7\">\n<p>Ciganovi\u0107 P, Jakimiuk K, Tomczyk M, Zovko Kon\u010di\u0107 M. Glycerolic licorice extracts as active cosmeceutical ingredients: extraction optimization, chemical characterization, and biological activity.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(10):445.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-6\">\n<p>Ciganovi\u0107 P, Jakimiuk K, Tomczyk M, Zovko Kon\u010di\u0107 M. Glycerolic licorice extracts as active cosmeceutical ingredients: extraction optimization, chemical characterization, and biological activity.\u00a0<em>Antioxidants (Basel)<\/em>. 2019;8(10):445. doi:10.3390\/antiox8100445<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-4\">\n<p>Kimyon RS, Liou YL, Schlarbaum JP, Warshaw EM. Allergic contact dermatitis to licorice root extract.\u00a0<em>Dermatitis<\/em>. 2019;30(3):227-228. doi:10.1097\/DER.0000000000000475<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--finalverdict beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-finalverdict\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Licorice extract inhibits tyrosinase production to effectively minimize dark spots and even out skin tone.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>It&#8217;s safe to use licorice extract up to twice daily, though it may irritate sensitive skin.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Avoid using licorice extract with retinol or hydroquinone to prevent potential skin irritation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking for a way to achieve your bright, glowy skin goals without a pricey trip to the dermatologist? Allow us to introduce you to licorice extract. This powerhouse ingredient brightens like professional-grade (and slightly problematic) hydroquinone, but without the serious drawbacks or $$$. We&#8217;ve tapped dermatologists, Rita Linkner and Jennifer Chwalek to give us the breakdown. <strong>Keep reading to learn more about licorice extract, and how it can help to brighten your complexion.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Rita Linkner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of RVL Skincare, PC, a concierge care cosmetic dermatology practice.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Jennifer Chwalek, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist. She practices out of Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Licorice Extract? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Like the sweet treat, it all comes back to the licorice plant (scientific term: Glycyrrhiza glabra&#8230;we&#8217;ll just call it the licorice plant). The root of the plant has been used for medicinal purposes for years and is where black licorice and candy comes from, but it&#8217;s also the source of licorice extract used topically for skin. This extract is filled with a variety of beneficial compounds, which do everything from delivering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects to helping fade dark spots. It&#8217;s the latter that makes it a choice ingredient in many skin-brightening products. It even acts similarly to hydroquinone (more on that in a minute), considered to be the gold-standard brightening ingredient, though notorious for its unwanted side effects and even potential safety concerns.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--ffingredients beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-ffingredients\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Licorice Extract<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p><strong>Type of ingredient: <\/strong>Skin brightener<\/p>\n<p><strong>Main benefits: <\/strong>Inhibits the production of an enzyme needed to produce melanin (pigment) in the skin, helps remove excess melanin, has anti-inflammatory benefits.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Who should use it: <\/strong>Anyone looking to reap the spot-fading, skin tone-evening benefits, as well as those looking to soothe irritated skin. Do not use if pregnant.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How often can you use it: <\/strong>This largely depends on the particular product formulation, but in most cases, once or twice a day, maximum, says Dr. Chwalek.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Works well with: <\/strong>Because of its main benefits, it&#8217;s often mixed with other antioxidants and skin brighteners, such as niacinamide and vitamin C.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Don&#8217;t use with: <\/strong>Because it does have the potential to be somewhat irritating, Dr. Linkner advises not using it in conjunction with retinol and\/or hydroquinone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Benefits of Licorice Extract For Skin <\/span><\/h2>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li><strong>Minimizes the production of tyrosinase to combat discoloration: <\/strong>The production of melanin (AKA pigment or color) is a complicated process, but at the heart of the matter is an enzyme known as tyrosinase. Licorice extract inhibits the production of tyrosinase, in turn inhibiting the production of dark spots.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Removes excess melanin: <\/strong>Licorice extract brightens the skin in another way, too. &#8220;It contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps to disperse and remove existing melanin in the skin,&#8221; explains Dr. Chwalek. In other words, not only can it help prevent new spots from forming, but it can also fade existing ones.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Acts as a potent antioxidant: <\/strong>Like many other plant-based extracts, licorice contains a flavonoid, an antioxidant-rich component that decreases reactive oxygen species, which both age and discolor the skin, says Dr. Linkner.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Offers anti-inflammatory benefits:<\/strong> While the flavonoid is anti-inflammatory itself, there&#8217;s yet another molecule, licochalcone A, which inhibits two inflammatory markers that trigger the inflammatory cascade, Dr. Chwalek says.<\/li>\n<li><strong>May help control oil production in the skin:<\/strong> Though this isn&#8217;t one of the more commonly agreed upon benefits, Dr. Chwalek says that there&#8217;s some evidence to suggest that the licochalcone compound may have the added benefit of regulating oil production. It may even be why licorice extract is often used in Ayurvedic medicine as a dandruff treatment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Side Effects of Licorice Extract <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> While this is a rare allergen\u2014meaning it&#8217;s unlikely to cause an actual allergy\u2014depending on what other ingredients licorice extract is mixed with, it can sometimes cause a reaction, notes Dr. Chwalek. Dr. Linkner adds that some people, especially those with sensitive skin could experience irritation. As a general rule, if you&#8217;re concerned about it stressing out your skin, try any new products out on a small test spot before applying all over your face.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_15-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> How to Use It <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Like other spot-faders, it&#8217;s a good idea to look for this in a serum, which will be more concentrated and contain higher amounts of the ingredient. Per the point about it being potentially irritating, be sure to follow exact product directions when it comes to how often and when to use it. And, while it should go without saying, be extra diligent about sun protection and daily SPF when using licorice extract (or any ingredient targeting hyperpigmentation). Sun exposure may counteract and thwart any of your skin-brightening efforts.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> We like Topicals\u00a0Faded Serum for Dark Spots &amp; Discoloration. Along with licorice root, this product also contains other high-powered skin-brightening ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid. Shea butter gives it a rich, hydrating texture that&#8217;s great for dry skin, and centella asiatica helps calm inflammation.<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-faq--expanded beauty-sc-block-faq mntl-sc-block-faq mntl-block is-expanded\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__title mntl-text-block\">FAQ<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block-faq__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-faq__content mntl-accordion \" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"1\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_1-0-section-0\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Does licorice root extract lighten your skin tone?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Long story short, yes. Studies have shown that licorice root extract contains compounds called liquiritin and licochalcone, both of which inhibit your body from making tyrosinase. This slows down the process where your skin produces melanin, so over time, your skin might become lighter in treated areas.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"2\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_2-0-section-1\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">Is licorice root extract suitable for acne-prone skin?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>Licorice root extract is a rare sensitizer; as such, it should be safe for sensitive or acne-prone skin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"accordion__item js-accordion-item is-active\" data-ordinal=\"3\">\n<div class=\"accordion__header js-accordion-trigger\" id=\"mntl-accordion__item_3-0-section-2\"><span class=\"accordion__title\">How often can you use licorice root extract in your skincare routine?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion__body\">\n<div id=\"mntl-accordion__content_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-accordion__content\">\n<div class=\"faq-accordion__item-answer\">\n<p>In most cases, products containing licorice root extract are safe to use up to two times a day, according to Dr. Chwalek.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p> Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/licorice-extract-for-skin-11875387<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Licorice Extract Can Fade Dark Spots (Yes, Really)\u2014Here&#8217;s Exactly How Derms Say to Use It Find out who should, and shouldn&#8217;t, use it. By Melanie Rud Chadwick Melanie Rud Chadwick Melanie Rud is a beauty writer with over 15 years of editorial experience, known for her expertise in skincare and product research. At Byrdie, she [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1698723,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83,226],"class_list":["post-1698722","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1698722","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1698722"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1698722\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1698723"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1698722"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1698722"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1698722"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}