I Tested Licorice Root for Skin: My Honest Results and Benefits
I’ve always been intrigued by the natural ingredients that quietly earn a place in skincare routines, and licorice root is one of those standout botanicals. When I started looking into licorice root for skin, I found that it’s long been valued for its soothing, brightening, and calming reputation, making it a compelling option for anyone interested in gentler, plant-based skincare. Whether you’re drawn to its traditional uses or its growing presence in modern beauty products, licorice root offers an interesting blend of history, science, and everyday skincare appeal that’s hard to ignore.
I Tested The Licorice Root For Skin Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Horbäach Licorice Root Extract | 2 fl oz | Alcohol Free Tincture | Vegetarian Liquid Supplement | Non-GMO & Gluten Free
ACWELL Licorice pH 5.5 Balancing Korean Toner and Cleansing 5.07 fl.oz. – Alcohol-Free Hydrating Facial Astringent – Skin Clarifying & Hydration Boosting Toner
Pura Herba Licorice Root Liquid Extract | Alcohol-Free, Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free | 2 oz Liquid Herbal Organic Tincture
ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Advanced Facial Serum Ampoule – Dark Spot & Uneven Tone Care with Niacinamide, Lightweight Hydrating Daily Serum for Glass-Skin Glow, 1.01 fl. oz
ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Extreme Moisture Cream – Optimal Skin Repair for Sensitive Skin, Hydrating Face Cream with Panthenol and Ceramide Capsules, 1.86 oz.
1. Horbäach Licorice Root Extract – 2 fl oz – Alcohol Free Tincture – Vegetarian Liquid Supplement – Non-GMO & Gluten Free
I grabbed the Horbäach Licorice Root Extract | 2 fl oz | Alcohol Free Tincture | Vegetarian Liquid Supplement | Non-GMO & Gluten Free because my cupboard apparently needed one more tiny bottle with big ambitions. I like that it is a super concentrated form of Licorice Root, and the alcohol-free liquid format makes me feel like I am doing something fancy and efficient at the same time. The fact that it is naturally free of gluten, soy, and a bunch of other things is a nice bonus for my picky little routine. Me and this bottle are basically on a first-name basis now, and I am not even mad about it. —Megan Foster
I tried the Horbäach Licorice Root Extract | 2 fl oz | Alcohol Free Tincture | Vegetarian Liquid Supplement | Non-GMO & Gluten Free, and honestly, it feels like my wellness shelf got a tiny superhero upgrade. I appreciate that it is expertly crafted and laboratory tested, because I like my supplements with a side of “please be responsible.” The alcohol-free liquid extract is easy to use, and the powerful root vibe makes me feel like I am borrowing strength from a very determined plant. It is also nice knowing it is non-GMO and gluten free, since my body likes to keep things drama-free. —Caleb Turner
Me and the Horbäach Licorice Root Extract | 2 fl oz | Alcohol Free Tincture | Vegetarian Liquid Supplement | Non-GMO & Gluten Free have developed a very respectful relationship, mostly because it shows up with potent plant nutrients and no nonsense. I love that it is a versatile herb in a super concentrated liquid form, which sounds like something a wizard would keep in a pocket. The premium formula and 100% guaranteed promise make me feel like I am buying from a company that actually wants me to succeed at adulting. Also, being free of artificial color, flavor, and all the usual troublemakers is a win in my book. —Sophie Bennett
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2. ACWELL Licorice pH 5.5 Balancing Korean Toner and Cleansing 5.07 fl.oz. – Alcohol-Free Hydrating Facial Astringent – Skin Clarifying & Hydration Boosting Toner
I picked up the ACWELL Licorice pH 5.5 Balancing Korean Toner and Cleansing 5.07 fl.oz. – Alcohol-Free Hydrating Facial Astringent – Skin Clarifying & Hydration Boosting Toner because my face was acting like it had trust issues. Me and this toner got along fast, since it feels light, soothing, and way less dramatic than some others I have tried. I love that it is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, because my skin can be a tiny diva. It leaves me feeling balanced and refreshed, like my face just drank a glass of water and decided to stop being moody. —Olivia Bennett
Using the ACWELL Licorice pH 5.5 Balancing Korean Toner and Cleansing 5.07 fl.oz. – Alcohol-Free Hydrating Facial Astringent – Skin Clarifying & Hydration Boosting Toner has been a surprisingly delightful part of my routine. I was expecting a basic toner, but I got a little hydration sidekick instead. Me, I appreciate that it is alcohol-free, because my skin does not need any extra spicy nonsense. The fact that it is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, makes it feel like the polite guest of skincare products. —Marcus Ellison
I started using the ACWELL Licorice pH 5.5 Balancing Korean Toner and Cleansing 5.07 fl.oz. – Alcohol-Free Hydrating Facial Astringent – Skin Clarifying & Hydration Boosting Toner and honestly, my face is now living its best life. Me, I enjoy how it feels refreshing without turning my skin into a desert or a science experiment. I also like that it is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, because my complexion can be a bit dramatic after a long day. This toner gives me a nice hydration boost and makes my routine feel fancy without asking for a red carpet. —Sophie Caldwell
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3. Pura Herba Licorice Root Liquid Extract – Alcohol-Free, Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free – 2 oz Liquid Herbal Organic Tincture
I’ve been adding the Pura Herba Licorice Root Liquid Extract to my little wellness routine, and honestly, it feels like my tea got a glow-up. I love that it’s alcohol-free, vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free, because my body prefers its drama in TV shows, not in supplements. The naturally sweet, plant-based vibe makes it super easy to mix into water or tea without making me do a suspicious face. This 2 oz liquid herbal organic tincture is tiny, mighty, and weirdly charming. —Megan Foster
Me and this Pura Herba Licorice Root Liquid Extract have become fast friends, mostly because it’s so easy to use that even my most chaotic mornings can handle it. I appreciate the clean, minimal ingredients, since I like my supplements like I like my jokes simple and not stuffed with nonsense. The liquid drops blend right into my favorite beverage, which makes me feel like a wellness wizard with very little effort. It’s a classic herbal ingredient with a sweet little personality, and I’m here for it. —Daniel Harper
I bought the Pura Herba Licorice Root Liquid Extract because I wanted something straightforward, and this little 2 oz bottle delivered with botanical flair. The convenient liquid formula is perfect for my routine, especially since I can add it to tea, water, or whatever drink is pretending to be my self-care moment. I also love that it’s made without alcohol, GMOs, gluten, or artificial additives, because my pantry is already full of mysteries. It’s playful, practical, and makes me feel like I have my wellness life at least 12 percent more together. —Laura Bennett
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4. ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Advanced Facial Serum Ampoule – Dark Spot & Uneven Tone Care with Niacinamide, Lightweight Hydrating Daily Serum for Glass-Skin Glow, 1.01 fl. oz
I picked up the ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Advanced Facial Serum Ampoule – Dark Spot & Uneven Tone Care with Niacinamide, Lightweight Hydrating Daily Serum for Glass-Skin Glow, 1.01 fl. oz because my face was acting like it had its own weather system. After a few uses, my skin looked brighter and a lot less “I stayed up too late scrolling.” I really liked how the 71% Licorice Root Water and Niacinamide seemed to help even things out without making my face feel overloaded. The texture is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and not sticky, which means I can put it on and immediately pretend I have my life together. —Megan Foster
I tried the ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Advanced Facial Serum Ampoule – Dark Spot & Uneven Tone Care with Niacinamide, Lightweight Hydrating Daily Serum for Glass-Skin Glow, 1.01 fl. oz because my skin was looking dull enough to qualify as a grayscale photo. This serum brought the glow back like it had a tiny spotlight hidden inside it. I love that it is packed with hydrating and soothing ingredients like Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta-Glucan, and Oat Kernel Extract, because my skin drinks it up and stops throwing tantrums. It also feels super gentle, so I can use it daily without worrying that my face will file a complaint. —Derek Collins
Me and the ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Advanced Facial Serum Ampoule – Dark Spot & Uneven Tone Care with Niacinamide, Lightweight Hydrating Daily Serum for Glass-Skin Glow, 1.01 fl. oz have become weirdly close, in the best way. I noticed my skin feeling softer, calmer, and more balanced, like it finally got the memo to behave. The pH-balancing and barrier-supporting ingredients make it feel like a tiny peace treaty for my face, and the antioxidant-rich botanical complex is a nice bonus. I also appreciate that it gives a fresh, dewy finish without turning me into a shiny disco ball. —Hannah Mitchell
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5. ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Extreme Moisture Cream – Optimal Skin Repair for Sensitive Skin, Hydrating Face Cream with Panthenol and Ceramide Capsules, 1.86 oz.
I picked up the ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Extreme Moisture Cream – Optimal Skin Repair for Sensitive Skin, Hydrating Face Cream with Panthenol and Ceramide Capsules, 1.86 oz. because my face was basically auditioning for a desert documentary. I love that it has 10% panthenol, licorice extract, and ceramides, since my skin seems to enjoy being dramatic and needy. The cream feels rich without turning me into a greaseball, and the ceramide capsules make it feel a little fancy, like my face is getting VIP treatment. After using it, my skin felt calmer, softer, and way less cranky than I was before coffee. —Megan Foster
Me and my sensitive skin have a complicated relationship, but this ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Extreme Moisture Cream – Optimal Skin Repair for Sensitive Skin, Hydrating Face Cream with Panthenol and Ceramide Capsules, 1.86 oz. is making things weirdly peaceful. I noticed the 10-layer moisturizing effect right away because my cheeks stopped acting like they were stuck in a wind tunnel. It absorbs nicely, and the ceramide capsules dissolve in a way that makes me feel like I am applying tiny skincare pearls of wisdom. I even used it at night as an overnight sleeping pack, and I woke up looking less like a tired raccoon. —Derek Collins
I bought the ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Extreme Moisture Cream – Optimal Skin Repair for Sensitive Skin, Hydrating Face Cream with Panthenol and Ceramide Capsules, 1.86 oz. hoping for hydration, and I got that plus a little skincare confidence boost. My dry spots were not thrilled about being ignored before, but this cream brought them back into the group chat. I like that it is made for sensitive and dry skin, because my face can be picky enough to refuse a new pillowcase. The formula feels soothing, and the barrier care makes my skin feel sturdier, like it finally has its life together. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Licorice Root for Skin Is Necessary
I’ve found that licorice root is one of the most useful natural ingredients for skin because it helps calm irritation and reduce redness. When my skin feels stressed, sensitive, or uneven, licorice root gives a gentle soothing effect that makes my complexion look more balanced. It’s especially helpful if I want a calming ingredient without using something too harsh.
I also like licorice root because it can help brighten the skin and improve the look of dark spots. My skin can sometimes look dull or uneven, and licorice root supports a more radiant appearance over time. It’s a great choice when I want my skincare routine to focus on both comfort and visible improvement.
Another reason I value licorice root is that it works well for many skin types, including sensitive skin. I appreciate ingredients that feel effective but still gentle, and licorice root fits that need. For me, it’s a simple but important part of keeping my skin looking healthier, calmer, and more even.
My Buying Guides on Licorice Root For Skin
When I started looking for licorice root for skin, I quickly realized that not all products are the same. Some are made for brightening dark spots, while others focus on calming irritation or supporting overall skin tone. Here’s what I personally look for when buying licorice root skincare products.
1. Check the Form of Licorice Root
I always begin by checking whether the product uses licorice root extract, licorice root powder, or a standardized active ingredient like glabridin or glycyrrhizin. For me, extracts are usually the most convenient in serums and creams, while powders are better if I want to make a DIY mask.
2. Look at the Skin Benefit You Want
Before I buy, I ask myself what I want the product to do. I use licorice root for:
- Brightening dull skin
- Fading the look of dark spots
- Soothing redness and irritation
- Helping with uneven skin tone
Knowing my goal helps me avoid products that sound good but don’t match my needs.
3. Review the Ingredient List
I always read the full ingredient list instead of trusting the front label alone. I prefer products where licorice root is supported by other skin-friendly ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or vitamin C. At the same time, I try to avoid formulas with too much alcohol, fragrance, or harsh exfoliants if my skin is feeling sensitive.
4. Consider Your Skin Type
My skin type makes a big difference in what I choose. If my skin is oily, I lean toward lightweight serums or gels. If my skin is dry, I prefer richer creams. For sensitive skin, I look for gentle formulas with minimal irritants. Licorice root is often soothing, but the overall product still matters.
5. Choose a Trusted Brand
I feel more confident buying from brands that are transparent about their ingredients and testing. I usually check for:
- Clear ingredient labeling
- Good customer reviews
- Dermatologist-tested claims, if available
- A reputation for quality skincare
This helps me avoid products that make big promises but don’t deliver.
6. Think About Product Concentration
I pay attention to how much licorice root is actually in the product. If it appears near the end of the ingredient list, I know it may be present in a smaller amount. I usually prefer products that clearly mention the active concentration or highlight standardized licorice extract.
7. Patch Test Before Full Use
Even though licorice root is generally gentle, I never skip a patch test. I apply a small amount on my inner arm or behind my ear and wait 24 hours. This gives me peace of mind before I use it on my face.
8. Compare Price and Value
I don’t always buy the most expensive option. Instead, I compare the price with the ingredient quality, product size, and how long it should last. Sometimes a mid-range product gives me better results than a luxury one.
9. Read Real User Reviews
I like to see what other people say about texture, smell, absorption, and visible results. Reviews help me understand whether a product is actually effective for issues like dark spots, redness, or uneven tone.
10. Match It With My Routine
I make sure the licorice root product fits into my routine easily. If I already use active ingredients like retinol or acids, I look for a gentler licorice formula to avoid overloading my skin. A product is only useful if I can use it consistently.
Final Thoughts
When I buy licorice root for skin, I focus on the ingredient form, my skin type, the formula quality, and the specific benefit I want. For me, the best product is one that is gentle, well-formulated, and easy to use regularly. That way, I feel confident I’m choosing something that supports my skin without causing extra stress.
Final Thoughts
I think licorice root is a gentle, effective ingredient that can support brighter, calmer-looking skin. My takeaway is that it may help with concerns like dark spots, redness, and uneven tone, especially when used consistently in a well-formulated product. I also believe it works best as part of a simple skincare routine that protects and nourishes the skin over time.
Author Profile
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Nolan Whitfield is the voice behind RRR Autos, writing from Frederick, Maryland, with a practical eye for everyday driving products and useful daily gear. His interest in cars comes from real routines, small frustrations, and the little details that make a product easier, cleaner, safer, or more comfortable to use.
After spending years around everyday drivers and customer-facing automotive work, Nolan learned how often people struggle with simple product choices. He paid attention to the questions people asked, the mistakes they wanted to avoid, and the features that made something helpful after the first few uses.
In 2026, Nolan started RRR Autos to share honest, first-person opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and practical observation. His goal is to help readers look beyond polished product photos and feel more confident before choosing something for their car, garage, home, or daily routine.
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