Licorice White (Cosmetic Grade)

🔹 What is Licorice White (Cosmetic Grade)

• “Licorice White” usually refers to a cosmetic-grade extract or powder of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice root) that has been specially processed for skin-brightening and whitening applications.
• Unlike raw licorice root (which is darker in color), white licorice extract is refined to remove impurities and standardize the active compounds most beneficial for cosmetics.
• Cosmetic grade means it’s safe for topical use in skincare and personal care formulations, but not for ingestion.

🔹 Key Active Compounds

• Glabridin → suppresses melanin production (lightening dark spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation).
• Liquiritin → breaks down existing pigmentation and promotes a more even skin tone.
• Glycyrrhizin → anti-inflammatory, soothing effect for sensitive or irritated skin.
• Flavonoids & antioxidants → protect skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage.

🔹 Cosmetic Benefits

1. Skin Brightening & Whitening

• Fades dark spots, acne scars, melasma, and age spots.
• Promotes a clearer, even skin tone without the harshness of synthetic bleaching agents.

2. Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory

• Reduces redness, swelling, and irritation.
• Suitable for sensitive skin and conditions like eczema, rosacea, and acne.

3. Anti-Aging Support

• Antioxidant properties help reduce fine lines and protect skin from UV-induced damage.

4. Gentle Alternative to Hydroquinone

• Licorice white extract is often used in natural brightening products as a safer, plant-based alternative.

🔹 Typical Cosmetic Applications

• Brightening creams & serums
• Anti-dark spot treatments
• Sensitive skin lotions
• Face masks & cleansers
• Sunscreen boosters (to help reduce UV-induced pigmentation when paired with SPF)

Typical usage concentration: 0.5% – 5%, depending on formulation.
Compatibility: Works well with niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and plant extracts.

🔹 Safety & Considerations

• Generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetics.
• Rare cases of irritation may occur → patch test recommended.
• Cosmetic grade only → not suitable for internal or medicinal use.