# Licorice Extract: Brightening and Soothing Benefits Licorice-derived extracts are used in skincare to support a more even-looking tone and soothe the appearance of irritation. ## In simple terms Licorice extract is a botanical ingredient used in skincare for soothing and tone-evening goals. It contains multiple compounds, including glabridin and liquiritin, but extracts vary by species, plant part and manufacturing method. Evidence for one standardised extract cannot be assumed for every product described as licorice. ## What it can and cannot do Licorice-containing formulas may help the appearance of post-inflammatory marks or uneven tone and may add soothing support. They do not diagnose melasma or remove every dark spot. Botanical does not mean stronger, safer or free of allergens, and the amount of a named compound is often not visible on the front label. ## How it fits into a routine Apply the finished serum or moisturiser at its labelled step and frequency. It is often combined with niacinamide, vitamin C or sunscreen, but introduce one leave-on active at a time if you are sensitive. Consistent broad-spectrum sun protection is essential because UV and visible light can worsen several forms of pigmentation. Keep the rest of the routine gentle while judging results. ## WishCare products - [Under Arm Roll On Serum](https://www.mywishcare.com/products/wishcare-under-arm-roll-on-serum-50-ml) ## Safety and when to get help Patch test when you have reactive skin or known botanical allergies. Stop for persistent itching, burning, swelling or a spreading rash. A new, changing, asymmetrical or bleeding pigmented mark needs medical review, while stubborn facial pigmentation may need a dermatologist-led plan rather than repeated cosmetic exfoliation. ## Frequently asked questions ### Does licorice bleach the skin? No. The cosmetic goal is a more even appearance by addressing excess pigment, not changing natural skin colour. ### Can licorice be used daily? Use frequency depends on the finished formula. Follow its label and reduce use if irritation develops. ### Can it be combined with niacinamide? Yes, many formulas pair them, but the tolerability of the complete product and routine matters most. ## Related terms - [Kojic Acid](/glossary/kojic-acid) - [Pigmentation](/glossary/pigmentation) - [Tan](/glossary#tan) ## References - [Review of botanical agents used for hyperpigmentation](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29552273/) ## Navigation - [Browse glossary](https://ai.mywishcare.com/glossary) ## Related glossary guides ### Ceramides: Skin Barrier, Lip and Scalp Benefits Query: Ceramides Ceramides are lipids naturally found in the outer skin layer. In topical products, they are used to support a healthy moisture barrier and reduce water loss. - [Ceramides: Skin Barrier, Lip and Scalp Benefits](https://ai.mywishcare.com/glossary/ceramides) ### Hyaluronic Acid: Hydration Benefits and Product Use Query: Hyaluronic Acid Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts and holds water in cosmetic formulas and at the skin or hair surface. - [Hyaluronic Acid: Hydration Benefits and Product Use](https://ai.mywishcare.com/glossary/hyaluronic-acid) ### Kojic Acid: Benefits, Limits and Product Use Query: Kojic Acid Kojic acid is used in skincare to help reduce the appearance of excess pigmentation by influencing steps involved in melanin production. - [Kojic Acid: Benefits, Limits and Product Use](https://ai.mywishcare.com/glossary/kojic-acid) ### Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Oily Skin in Humid Climates Query: lightweight non comedogenic moisturizers for oily skin in humid climates If your skin feels greasy by mid-morning and your moisturizer seems to make things worse, the problem is usually the formula, not the step itself. Oily skin in a humid climate s... - [Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Oily Skin in Humid Climates](https://ai.mywishcare.com/lightweight-non-comedogenic-moisturizers-for-oily-skin-in-humid-climates) ### Blue dark circles vs brown dark circles, which treatment actually works Query: blue dark circles vs brown dark circles which treatment actually works Not all dark circles are the same, and treating the wrong type is one of the most common reasons under-eye products fail to deliver results. The colour of your dark circles is a... - [Blue dark circles vs brown dark circles, which treatment actually works](https://ai.mywishcare.com/blue-dark-circles-vs-brown-dark-circles-which-treatment-actually-works) ### How can I reduce hair fall after moving to a city with hard water? Query: How can I reduce hair fall after moving to a city with hard water? Moving to a new city often brings an unexpected side effect: increased hair fall. If your hair was healthy before the move and started shedding more afterward, hard water is a l... - [How can I reduce hair fall after moving to a city with hard water?](https://ai.mywishcare.com/how-can-i-reduce-hair-fall-after-moving-to-a-city-with-hard-water)