Glycyrrhetinic Acid

Glycyrrhetinic Acid is a skin-conditioning ingredient derived from licorice root, usually by processing glycyrrhizin into a more usable form for cosmetics. It’s best known for its soothing, antioxidant, and anti-redness properties, which is why you’ll often see it in products aimed at stressed, reactive, or uneven-looking skin. In formulas, it can help support a calmer-looking complexion and may also contribute to a more comfortable feel after cleansing or exfoliation.

For skin, glycyrrhetinic acid is especially appealing if you deal with visible irritation, occasional dryness, or post-sun sensitivity. It’s also used in brightening-focused products because it can help improve the look of dullness and uneven tone over time. In hair and scalp care, it may be included for a soothing, conditioning effect, though it’s much more common in skincare than in shampoos or scalp treatments.

Caveat: this is a supportive cosmetic ingredient, not a treatment. People with very sensitive skin should still patch test, since any ingredient can occasionally cause a reaction depending on the full formula. Its performance also depends on concentration and the other ingredients around it, so it works best as part of a well-designed routine rather than as a stand-alone miracle worker.