Licorice root has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, but it’s now gaining major attention in the skincare world. Known for its ability to soothe, brighten, and even out tone, licorice root is becoming a go-to ingredient for anyone looking to achieve a more radiant, balanced complexion.
But is it really the miracle skin brightener it’s made out to be? And how can you use it effectively in your routine? In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of licorice root extract, how it works, and why it’s featured in products like Manjeri Skincare’s Peach Serenity Body Wash.
What Is Licorice Root and Where Does It Come From?
Licorice root is derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, native to parts of Europe and Asia. While it’s best known as a sweetener and herbal remedy, its extract has powerful skin benefits thanks to active compounds like glabridin and liquiritin.
In skincare, it’s typically used in extract or powdered form to address concerns like dullness, discoloration, sensitivity, and inflammation.
Why Licorice Root Is Trending in Skincare
As more people seek natural, effective alternatives to harsh brightening agents, licorice root stands out. It supports an even complexion without causing irritation, making it especially popular among those with sensitive or reactive skin.
Unlike hydroquinone or strong acids, licorice root gently reduces hyperpigmentation, soothes redness, and helps prevent dark spots from returning.
Key Benefits of Licorice Root for Skin
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Brightens dull or uneven skin tone by inhibiting excess melanin production
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Fades dark spots and discoloration caused by sun exposure or breakouts
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Reduces redness and inflammation in sensitive or reactive skin
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Protects against free radical damage with its antioxidant properties
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Supports barrier repair for smoother, more resilient skin
Whether your goal is to fade acne marks, calm irritation, or just achieve a more luminous glow, licorice root is a multitasking ingredient worth adding to your routine.
How Licorice Root Brightens Skin
The magic lies in its ability to interrupt the process that leads to dark spots. Glabridin, one of the main compounds in licorice root, helps prevent tyrosinase activity. Tyrosinase is an enzyme involved in melanin production. By calming that process, licorice root helps slow down the development of uneven pigmentation.
At the same time, it also fades existing discoloration through gentle exfoliation and antioxidant protection, making it one of the few ingredients that both prevents and corrects hyperpigmentation.
Who Should Use Licorice Root in Skincare?
Licorice root is safe and beneficial for almost all skin types, including:
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Sensitive skin prone to redness or rosacea
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Dull or uneven skin tone in need of brightening
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Post-acne marks and sun-induced dark spots
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Dry or irritated skin needing a calming, anti-inflammatory boost
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Anyone avoiding aggressive brightening agents or hydroquinone
Because it’s so gentle, it’s especially helpful for people who want results without risking irritation or barrier damage.
How to Incorporate Licorice Root Into Your Routine
Step 1: Use a Cleanser That Includes Licorice Extract
Start with a body wash or facial cleanser that includes licorice root as a key ingredient. This allows the skin to absorb its benefits without disruption from harsh surfactants.
The Peach Serenity Body Wash from Manjeri Skincare features licorice leaf extract in a calming, hydrating formula that gently cleanses while helping fade dark spots and calm inflammation.
Step 2: Follow with Hydration and Moisture
After cleansing, follow with body butter or oil to lock in hydration and reinforce the skin barrier. This ensures the brightening ingredients you use can work more effectively without causing dryness.
Sweet Almond Body Butter helps maintain moisture levels and support elasticity while giving your skin a smooth, radiant finish.
Step 3: Be Consistent
Licorice root is powerful but subtle. Use it consistently over time, ideally once or twice daily, to see a noticeable improvement in brightness and tone. Expect visible results within a few weeks when paired with daily hydration and SPF.
Step 4: Protect With Sunscreen
Like any brightening ingredient, licorice root works best when paired with sun protection. Daily SPF prevents further pigmentation and helps maintain results.
Best Ingredient Pairings for Licorice Root
To enhance its benefits, combine licorice root with ingredients that hydrate, brighten, or support barrier health:
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Niacinamide to even out tone and strengthen the skin
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Vitamin C to boost antioxidant protection and support collagen
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Ginseng extract to energize and revitalize tired-looking skin
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Trehalose to attract and hold water for deep hydration
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Ceramides to restore and maintain the skin barrier
Manjeri’s Peach Serenity Body Wash brings together many of these elements for a glow-boosting experience with every cleanse.
Myths About Licorice Root in Skincare
It works instantly
While it’s effective, licorice root isn’t a quick fix. It takes time and consistency to see noticeable changes in brightness and discoloration.
It can replace sunscreen
No brightening ingredient can replace SPF. Licorice root can help correct and prevent dark spots, but only sun protection can stop them from forming in the first place.
It’s only for the face
Licorice root is just as beneficial on the body, especially in areas prone to hyperpigmentation like the neck, shoulders, underarms, or thighs.
Where to Start If You’re New to Licorice Root
If you’ve never used licorice root before, start with a gentle body wash like Peach Serenity. It’s designed to work for all skin types and can be used daily to gradually brighten and calm your skin without stripping moisture.
Pair it with a rich body butter to seal in hydration and support skin barrier health. Over time, you’ll notice more even tone, softer texture, and a visibly healthier glow.
Your Brightest Skin Starts With Balance
You don’t need harsh ingredients or expensive treatments to achieve a brighter, more even complexion. With the right blend of nature and science, ingredients like licorice root offer powerful results with a gentle touch.
Manjeri Skincare believes in glow that comes from harmony. Our Peach Serenity Body Wash uses licorice root extract to deliver radiance, clarity, and calm with every wash. Add it to your routine and let your natural glow shine through.
Want help pairing it with the rest of your body ritual? Just let us know and we’ll guide you step by step.
