✦ Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity to visibly reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation
✦ Contains glabridin and liquiritin, two clinically studied skin brightening compounds
✦ Delivers strong anti-inflammatory action that calms redness, irritation, and post-acne marks
✦ Rich in antioxidants that protect skin from environmental stress and premature aging
✦ Water-soluble liquid format for easy incorporation into serums, toners, essences, and creams
✦ Plant-derived, vegan-friendly ingredient sourced from Glycyrrhiza glabra root
✦ Gentle enough for sensitive and reactive skin types when used at recommended levels

Licorice Extract Liquid is obtained from the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, a leguminous plant native to Southern Europe and parts of Asia. Licorice root has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine systems, and its transition into modern cosmetics is driven by extensive research confirming its depigmenting and anti-inflammatory capabilities. Today it is one of the most sought-after botanical actives in the brightening skincare category worldwide.

What makes licorice extract particularly effective is its dual mechanism of action. Glabridin inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin synthesis, while liquiritin disperses and removes existing melanin deposits in the skin. This combination makes it a potent yet gentle alternative to harsher brightening agents like hydroquinone. Additionally, its glycyrrhizin content provides significant soothing and anti-redness properties, supporting barrier recovery in compromised skin.

Bio Shop Pakistan supplies cosmetic-grade licorice extract liquid suitable for DIY skincare formulators, professional cosmetic chemists, indie beauty brands, and home crafters.

INCI Name : Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Chemical Name : Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract
CAS Number : 84775-66-6
Molecular Formula : Not Applicable (complex botanical extract)
Appearance : Dark brown to amber viscous liquid
Odor : Mild, characteristic herbal-sweet
pH (1% solution) : 4.0 – 6.0
Solubility : Water-soluble
Specific Gravity : 1.00 – 1.10
Flash Point : Not Applicable (aqueous extract)
HLB Value : Not Applicable
Recommended Use Level : 1% – 5% in finished formulations
Type : Natural botanical extract (active)
Shelf Life : 12 – 18 months when stored properly

Skincare (Creams, Serums, Lotions) ★★★★★
Licorice extract liquid is a first-choice active for brightening serums, anti-dark spot creams, and even-tone lotions. Use at 2% to 5% in the cool-down or water phase for maximum efficacy.

Haircare (Shampoo, Conditioner, Masks) ★★★☆☆
It can offer mild scalp-soothing benefits and help reduce scalp inflammation or irritation. Add at 1% to 2% in the water phase of shampoos or scalp treatments.

Body Care (Scrubs, Butters, Balms) ★★★★☆
Excellent in body lotions and brightening body milks targeting uneven tone on elbows, knees, and underarms. Incorporate at 2% to 4% in the aqueous phase of body care emulsions.

Toners and Essences ★★★★★
One of the best delivery formats for licorice extract due to its full water solubility. Use at 3% to 5% in toners or facial mists for daily brightening and soothing action.

Functional Cosmetics (Spot Treatments, Under-Eye Care) ★★★★☆
Performs well in targeted treatments for dark circles, melasma patches, and post-inflammatory marks. Pair with niacinamide or alpha arbutin at 2% to 3% for enhanced results.

In my formulation work, I rely on licorice extract liquid as a foundational brightening active because it works through multiple pathways simultaneously — tyrosinase inhibition, melanin dispersal, and anti-inflammatory support. I always combine it with at least one complementary brightening agent to create a synergistic effect rather than loading high percentages of a single active. The results are more consistent and more stable over shelf life.

ADVANCED TIP: For a high-performance brightening serum, combine 3% licorice extract liquid with 4% niacinamide and 1% alpha arbutin in a hyaluronic acid base at pH 5.0 to 5.5. Add the licorice extract during the cool-down phase below 40°C to preserve glabridin activity. This combination targets melanin at three different stages of production for noticeably faster results.

Normal Skin : ★★★★★ — Delivers brightening and antioxidant benefits without disrupting balanced skin.
Dry Skin : ★★★★☆ — Soothes and brightens effectively but should be paired with humectants for moisture support.
Oily Skin : ★★★★★ — Lightweight, water-soluble format absorbs cleanly without adding oiliness or congestion.
Combination : ★★★★★ — Works well across different zones without aggravating oily or dry areas.
Sensitive Skin : ★★★★★ — One of the gentlest brightening actives available with strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Mature Skin : ★★★★★ — Antioxidant content and brightening action help address age spots and dull uneven tone.
Acne-Prone : ★★★★☆ — Anti-inflammatory properties help fade post-acne marks without triggering new breakouts.

CONCEPT 1: Radiance Boost Brightening Serum
Usage Level : 4%
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Alpha Arbutin
Result : A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum that visibly reduces dark spots and evens out skin tone within weeks of consistent use.

CONCEPT 2: Calm and Glow Soothing Toner
Usage Level : 5%
Key Ingredients: Aloe Vera Juice, Allantoin, Panthenol
Result : A hydrating daily toner that calms redness and progressively brightens dull, stressed skin with every application.

CONCEPT 3: Even Tone Body Lotion
Usage Level : 3%
Key Ingredients: Shea Butter, Cetearyl Alcohol, Kojic Acid Dipalmitate
Result : A nourishing body lotion targeting hyperpigmentation on knees, elbows, and underarms for a smoother, more even complexion.

INCI Declared : Yes — required on all cosmetic labels
EU Cosmetics Reg : Permitted — no specific restriction under EU Cosmetics Regulation for topical cosmetic use
Rinse-Off Limit : No specific limit established (use within recommended levels)
Leave-On Limit : No specific limit established (generally used up to 5%)
Allergen Alert : No — no classified allergens, though rare individual sensitivity is possible
Skin Safety : Safe at recommended levels of 1% to 5%
Eye Area Use : Use with caution — patch test first for periorbital formulations
Ingestion : Not for internal use
Pregnancy Use : Consult physician — glycyrrhizin content warrants caution during pregnancy
Child Safety : Safe above 3 years at reduced concentrations of 1% to 2%
Ventilation : Not required
Storage : Cool dry place away from direct sunlight, tightly sealed
Container : HDPE or PET bottles — amber or opaque preferred to protect from light

⚠️ Glycyrrhizin in licorice extract may cause sensitivity in rare cases. Topical use at recommended levels is generally well tolerated, but pregnant users should consult a physician before use due to systemic absorption concerns at higher exposures.

Working pH Range : 4.0 – 7.0 (optimal brightening activity at pH 5.0 – 6.0)
Heat Stability : Moderate — add below 40°C to preserve glabridin activity
Freeze-Thaw Stable : Yes, generally stable through freeze-thaw cycles
Emulsion Type : O/W preferred, but compatible with both
Emulsification Phase: Cool-down phase or water phase (post-heating)
Compatible With : Niacinamide, alpha arbutin, hyaluronic acid, allantoin, most water-soluble actives
Incompatible With : Strong oxidizing agents, highly acidic systems below pH 3.0 (may degrade active compounds)
Oxidation Risk : Medium — glabridin is susceptible to oxidation; add 0.05% to 0.1% sodium metabisulfite or vitamin E as antioxidant
Discoloration Risk : Possible — the dark brown color of the extract can tint light-colored formulations; test at intended use level before scaling
Formulation Notes : Always add during the cool-down phase to protect heat-sensitive actives. Conduct a color compatibility test at your target percentage before finalizing formulations, especially for white or pastel-toned products.

Q: What does licorice extract liquid do in skincare?
A: It brightens skin by inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme responsible for melanin production and helps disperse existing pigmentation. It also reduces redness and inflammation, making it effective for both brightening and soothing purposes.

Q: Can I use licorice extract liquid with vitamin C?
A: Yes, they are compatible and can complement each other in brightening formulations. However, ensure your formulation pH is balanced between 4.5 and 5.5, and add the licorice extract during the cool-down phase to maintain stability.

Q: At what percentage should I use licorice extract liquid?
A: The recommended use level is 1% to 5% in finished products. Start at 2% for general brightening and increase to 4% to 5% for targeted treatments like dark spot serums or melasma-focused products.

Q: Will licorice extract change the color of my product?
A: Yes, it is a dark brown liquid and will tint formulations, especially at higher percentages. Always conduct a small-batch color test at your intended use level before committing to production.

Q: How does licorice extract compare to alpha arbutin for brightening?
A: Both are effective tyrosinase inhibitors, but licorice extract offers additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that alpha arbutin does not. Alpha arbutin is colorless and easier to formulate into light-colored products, while licorice extract provides broader skin benefits but may tint formulations.