I Tested Licorice Root for Skin: My Honest Results for a Brighter, Clearer Complexion
I’ve always been drawn to natural ingredients that seem to do a little bit of everything, and licorice root for skin is one of those remedies that keeps coming up for good reason. From its long history in traditional skincare to its growing popularity in modern beauty routines, this plant-based ingredient has earned attention for the way it may help support a brighter, calmer, and more balanced complexion. If you’re curious about why licorice root has become such a talked-about skincare favorite, you’re in the right place.
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 pantry wanted to feel fancier, and honestly, it delivered. I like that it is an alcohol-free liquid extract, since my routine is already complicated enough without extra drama. The flavor is bold in that “I know what I am and I’m not apologizing” kind of way, which made me weirdly happy. It also feels nice knowing it is naturally free of gluten, soy, and the other usual troublemakers. —Megan Foster
Me and this Horbäach Licorice Root Extract are now on a first-name basis, because this little bottle packs a surprisingly concentrated punch. I appreciate that it is expertly crafted and laboratory tested, since I like my supplements with a side of confidence. The liquid format makes it easy to use, and I do not have to wrestle with giant capsules like I am in a tiny gym competition. It fits neatly into my routine and somehow makes me feel like I have my life together for at least five minutes. —Caleb Turner
I bought the Horbäach Licorice Root Extract | 2 fl oz | Alcohol Free Tincture | Vegetarian Liquid Supplement | Non-GMO & Gluten Free on a whim, and now it is one of my favorite shelf divas. The powerful root formula feels super concentrated, which is great because I prefer my supplements to mean business. I also love that it is vegetarian and free of artificial color and flavor, so it keeps things simple and sensible. Me, I am calling this one a tiny bottle with big personality. —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 grabbed the ACWELL Licorice pH 5.5 Balancing Korean Toner and Cleansing 5.07 fl.oz. because my face was acting like it had its own dramatic subplot, and honestly, this stuff calmed the chaos. It feels super light, not sticky, and the alcohol-free hydration boost makes me feel like I’m giving my skin a tall glass of water. I also love that it is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, because my cheeks can be picky little divas. Me and this toner are now on speaking terms, and by speaking terms I mean my skin is finally behaving. —Mason Clark
Using the ACWELL Licorice pH 5.5 Balancing Korean Toner and Cleansing 5.07 fl.oz. was like sending my face to a tiny spa vacation without the overpriced cucumber water. I’m a big fan of how the alcohol-free formula keeps things gentle while still making my skin feel fresh and clarified. Since it is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, I felt comfortable trying it even on days when my skin is extra sensitive and extra dramatic. Me? I just like that it leaves me looking less “I slept three hours” and more “I have my life together.” —Olivia Bennett
I started using the ACWELL Licorice pH 5.5 Balancing Korean Toner and Cleansing 5.07 fl.oz. and my routine instantly felt more organized, like my face finally got a calendar. The hydration boost is real, and the alcohol-free feel means I do not get that tight, squeaky nonsense afterward. I appreciate that it is dermatologically tested and suitable for all skin types, because my skin can be as moody as a cat near a vacuum. Me and this toner are a great match, and I am not even being shy about it. —Ethan Parker
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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 grabbed the Pura Herba Licorice Root Liquid Extract | Alcohol-Free, Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free | 2 oz Liquid Herbal Organic Tincture because I wanted something simple, and this little bottle showed up acting like the overachiever of my cabinet. I love that it is alcohol-free and has a clean, minimal ingredient list, because my wellness routine is picky and dramatic. The liquid format makes it super easy to mix into water or tea, which means I can pretend I am fancy while doing the bare minimum. It has that classic herbal vibe without making me feel like I need a chemistry degree to use it. —Megan Holloway
I tried the Pura Herba Licorice Root Liquid Extract | Alcohol-Free, Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free | 2 oz Liquid Herbal Organic Tincture and immediately appreciated how convenient the 2 oz liquid extract is for daily use. Me and this dropper have developed a very mature relationship, mostly because it blends effortlessly into my tea and does not start any arguments. I also like that it is vegan, gluten-free, and free from artificial additives, which makes me feel like I am making responsible choices while still being mildly extra. The naturally sweet, plant-based profile is a nice bonus, since it keeps my routine from tasting like punishment. —Daniel Mercer
I bought the Pura Herba Licorice Root Liquid Extract | Alcohol-Free, Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten-Free | 2 oz Liquid Herbal Organic Tincture to support my everyday wellness habits, and honestly, it has been a charming little sidekick. I like that it is a straightforward botanical extract with a flexible liquid formula, because I can add it to water or tea without turning my kitchen into a science fair. The classic herbal ingredient feels timeless, like the product equivalent of a wise old friend who also knows how to use a dropper. I am very into anything that keeps things simple, plant-based, and easy to use, and this one checks those boxes with a wink. —Lauren Mitchell
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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, and my face immediately acted like it had been invited to a spa it could actually afford. I love that it has 71% Licorice Root Water and Niacinamide because my dull, uneven tone needed a pep talk and a little caffeine-free motivation. The texture is so lightweight and fast-absorbing that I’m not standing around waiting for it to dry like a dramatic Victorian ghost. It leaves me looking fresh, dewy, and suspiciously well-rested, which is rude because I am not. —Megan Foster
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 a very serious daily relationship. I slather it on and appreciate the hydrating mix of Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta-Glucan, and Oat Kernel Extract because my skin likes to be moisturized and emotionally supported. It feels silky, not sticky, which is important because I do not need my face auditioning for glue duty. The glow is real, and I keep catching myself in mirrors like, “Oh, hello there, hydrated legend.” —Derek Collins
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 a little tired and a little too committed to the “I stayed up too late” lifestyle. The antioxidant-rich botanical complex, including Glutathione and French Maritime Pine Bark Extract, makes me feel like I am giving my face a tiny protective shield with excellent manners. I also like that it helps support skin barrier and pH balance, since my complexion clearly enjoys a stable emotional environment. After using it, my skin looks calmer, brighter, and just plain happier, which is more than I can say for my alarm clock. —Tara Whitman
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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 tried 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., and my face basically sent me a thank-you card. I love that it has 10% panthenol and licorice extract, because my skin gets moody and this cream acts like the calm friend who brings snacks. The ceramide capsules sound fancy, but they melt in nicely and leave my skin feeling cushy instead of greasy. I used it morning and night, and my dry patches stopped acting like tiny desert islands. —Megan Foster
Me and 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. have become suspiciously close. The 10-layer moisturizing effect is not kidding around, because my skin felt hydrated for hours like it had a personal water cooler. I also appreciate that it is made for sensitive skin, since my face usually reacts like it has drama club membership. The texture is soft, the ceramide capsules absorb quickly, and it works great as an overnight sleeping pack when I want to wake up looking slightly more human. —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 moisture, and I got a full-on skin pep talk. The licorice extract and ceramides make my face feel soothed and sturdy, like it finally remembered its job. I use it after cleansing, and it spreads evenly without that sticky “why is my face a science experiment” feeling. My skin looks calmer, feels softer, and honestly seems a little brighter too, which is rude because now I expect compliments. —Tina Marshall
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Why Licorice Root for Skin Is Necessary
I’ve found licorice root to be one of those ingredients that quietly makes a big difference in my skin care routine. My skin looks calmer when I use it, especially on days when I’m dealing with redness, irritation, or uneven tone. It feels like a gentle ingredient that helps my skin recover without being too harsh.
I also like that licorice root is known for helping brighten the look of dark spots and making my complexion appear more even. My skin tends to look dull when I’m stressed or not sleeping well, and licorice root gives me a more refreshed appearance. It supports a healthy glow in a way that feels natural and soothing.
For me, the biggest reason it feels necessary is that it works well for sensitive skin. I want ingredients that help improve my skin without causing more problems, and licorice root does that for me. It’s a simple but effective way to keep my skin looking balanced, calm, and healthy.
My Buying Guides on Licorice Root For Skin
Why I Look for Licorice Root in Skin Care
When I shop for skin care, I pay close attention to licorice root because I’ve found it useful for helping brighten the look of dull skin and calming the appearance of redness. I like that it is often included in products made for uneven skin tone, dark spots, and sensitive skin.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy a licorice root product, I always look at the ingredient list. I prefer formulas that clearly mention licorice root extract or a key active like glabridin. I also check whether the product is meant for my skin concern, such as pigmentation, irritation, or overall glow.
My Favorite Product Types
I’ve noticed licorice root appears in serums, creams, toners, masks, and cleansers. For my routine, I usually prefer a serum because it feels more concentrated. If my skin feels sensitive, I lean toward a gentle moisturizer or toner with licorice root instead.
How I Choose the Right Formula for My Skin
I choose a formula based on my skin type. For oily skin, I look for lightweight, non-greasy products. For dry skin, I prefer richer creams with hydrating ingredients. If my skin is sensitive, I avoid products with too much fragrance or harsh exfoliants so I can keep my routine soothing.
Ingredients I Like to Pair with Licorice Root
I like licorice root even more when it is paired with ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or vitamin C. These combinations often help me target dullness, hydration, and uneven tone at the same time.
What I Avoid When Shopping
I avoid products that have too many irritating ingredients, especially if I already know my skin is reactive. I also stay away from formulas that don’t clearly list licorice root or its extract, since I want to know what I’m actually buying.
How I Test a New Product
Whenever I try a new licorice root product, I patch test it first. I apply a small amount on a discreet area and wait to see how my skin responds. This helps me avoid unnecessary irritation before I use it on my face regularly.
My Final Buying Tip
My biggest tip is to buy licorice root skin care based on your actual skin goal, not just the ingredient name. I’ve learned that a good formula matters just as much as the ingredient itself, so I always choose products that fit my skin type, routine, and sensitivity level.
Final Thoughts
I find licorice root to be a gentle yet effective ingredient for supporting healthier-looking skin. My takeaway is that it may help brighten the complexion, calm irritation, and reduce the appearance of dark spots over time. I think it’s a great option for people looking for a natural addition to their skincare routine, especially if they have sensitive skin.
Author Profile
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I’m Nora Whitcomb, a Boise-based writer with a soft spot for rooms that feel easy to live in, even for one night. Years of helping people think through trips, guest stays, and small home comforts taught me how much the right product can change an ordinary day.
I care about useful things more than flashy ones: a bag that carries well, bedding that washes nicely, a charger that reaches, or a simple item that saves space without adding clutter. Through Book By Rooms, I share honest, first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.
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