Liquiritigenin: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Liquiritigenin?

Liquiritigenin is a natural molecule found in the roots of licorice plants, mainly Glycyrrhiza uralensis and Glycyrrhiza glabra. Chemically it belongs to the flavanone family, a group of plant-based compounds known for their protective qualities. Centuries ago licorice root was prized in traditional skin remedies, and scientists later pinpointed liquiritigenin as one of the key soothing agents. Today cosmetic manufacturers obtain it by grinding dried licorice root, using food-grade solvents to pull out the active components, then filtering and purifying the extract until a concentrated powder or solution of liquiritigenin remains.

Because of its mild nature and proven benefits it is added to many leave-on and rinse-off products such as anti aging serums, brightening masks, daily moisturizers, spot treatments, after-sun gels and even gentle cleansers.

Liquiritigenin’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care liquiritigenin serves two main roles that work hand in hand to improve the overall performance of a formula:

  • Antioxidant – Helps neutralize free radicals created by UV light and pollution which can weaken collagen and lead to dull or uneven tone. By limiting this daily damage it supports a fresher smoother appearance.
  • Skin conditioning – Contributes to a softer feel by comforting stressed or dry areas and helping the skin hold on to moisture. This makes the surface look supple and well cared for.

Who Can Use Liquiritigenin

Liquiritigenin is generally considered friendly for all major skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it is non-acidic and has a low likelihood of causing irritation. Individuals with extremely reactive or compromised skin should still introduce it slowly, as they would any new ingredient, but no specific skin type is singled out as incompatible.

The compound is sourced entirely from licorice root and no animal-derived agents are involved in its extraction or purification, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current research has not flagged any specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when liquiritigenin is applied topically in cosmetic concentrations. That said this information is not medical advice. Anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product they plan to use to their healthcare provider to be safe.

Liquiritigenin is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it does not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime protection with a broad-spectrum sunscreen is still recommended in any routine.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical liquiritigenin vary widely from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at the concentrations typically found in finished products.

  • Mild redness or stinging
  • Localized itching
  • Dryness in people already using multiple exfoliating or retinoid products
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in those sensitive to plants in the Fabaceae family
  • Very slight temporary yellow tint if applied in a highly concentrated DIY form

If any of these effects occur stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Liquiritigenin is a lightweight flavanone that dissolves in water or alcohol, not in heavy oils or butters that can block pores. It does not leave a greasy film, does not alter sebum flow and has no track record of triggering blackheads or whiteheads. For these reasons it earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale and is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. If a breakout does occur it is more likely linked to other richer ingredients in the same formula, so always consider the full product, not just the star extract.

Summary

Liquiritigenin shines in two simple yet valuable ways: it helps defend skin against daily free-radical damage and it cushions the surface so it feels soft and calm. It does this by donating electrons to unstable molecules created by UV light and pollution and by gently reinforcing the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Although it is not yet a household name like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid its presence is growing in serums, lotions and spot treatments that favor plant-based actives.

Topical use is regarded as very safe with irritation and allergy reports remaining rare. Still, every skin is different so doing a small patch test with any new product that lists liquiritigenin is a smart step for peace of mind before applying it more broadly.

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