Glycyrrhetinic acid is a natural compound with multiple benefits for the skin. Extracted from the roots of the liquorice plant, it is responsible for a large part of the cosmetic properties of this plant. However, before using skincare products containing glycyrrhetinic acid, one might wonder if there are any side effects associated with its topical application?
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Glycyrrhetinic Acid: Are there side effects to its topical use?
Summary
- What is Glycyrrhetinic Acid?
- Are there any precautions for use related to the topical application of glycyrrhetinic acid?
- Sources
Published July 6, 2023,
updated on February 26, 2024,
by
Pauline, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
What is Glycyrrhetinic Acid?
Also known as enoxolone, glycyrrhetinic acid is an active ingredient found in the smooth liquorice or Glycyrrhiza glabra. Renowned for its aromatic roots and its therapeutic properties, it has long been used in traditional medicine, particularly to soothe colds, coughs, and indigestions. It was commonly consumed as an infusion or chewable paste in ancient times. Today, enoxolone is primarily recognised for its cosmetic virtues and the benefits it brings to the skin.
Anti-inflammatory : Glycyrrhetinic acid operates on several levels to alleviate inflammation. It notably inhibits the activity of TNF-α and interleukin-1α, which are pro-inflammatory cytokines. This active ingredient can therefore be used to soothe itching or certain redness.
Antibacterial : It has been demonstrated that glycyrrhetinic acid has a bactericidal effect against certain resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus. This molecule can therefore be useful in keeping the bacterial populations living on the skin under control.
Brightening : this property of glycyrrhetinic acid is a subject of debate, but it appears to inhibit tyrosinase, the key enzyme in the melanogenesis process. Therefore, this active ingredient could potentially help to reduce brown spots.
Antioxidant : By stimulating the activity of certain antioxidant enzymes, glycyrrhetinic acid protects DNA, proteins, and cells from free radicals, which are responsible for premature ageing, as well as pigmentation disorders and melanomas.
Prevents skin ageing : it has been demonstrated that glycyrrhetinic acid inhibits the activity of collagenase, an enzyme that breaks down the peptide bonds of collagen, thereby degrading it. This active ingredient thus protects a protein essential to the skin's suppleness and delays the appearance of wrinkles.
Are there any precautions for use related to the topical application of glycyrrhetinic acid?
No side effects have been reported to date following the topical application of enoxolone. This active ingredient is gentle and non-irritating, and its concentration in cosmetic products is not subject to restriction by European cosmetic regulations. These regulations are based on Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, which establishes the standards and requirements that these products must meet in order to protect consumer health.
Although it is not subject to a concentration limit, enoxolone is typically incorporated at rates between 0.05 and 2% in cosmetic care products. Indeed, this concentration range is sufficient to induce skin benefits. It's also worth noting that this molecule is not among the cosmetic actives advised against during a pregnancy or breastfeeding. In fact, glycyrrhetinic acid can be considered suitable for the whole family as it can also be used by children over the age of 3.
Sources
KALINOWSKA-LIS U. & al. 18β-Glycyrrhetinic acid: its core biological properties and dermatological applications. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2019).
Thèse de Mathilde BOURIQUAT. La réglisse : principales propriétés et utilisations (2020).
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