Licorice Root Benefits for Skin: Uses, DIY Recipes & Safety Guide

What Does Licorice Do for Skin?

Licorice root powder supports an even, radiant complexion and soothes sensitive skin when applied topically in DIY facial masks and botanical paste preparations.

Understanding licorice root benefits for skin allows botanical skincare enthusiasts to harness centuries of traditional Ayurvedic and TCM wisdom. Derived from the dried root of Glycyrrhiza glabra, this finely ground powder contains natural plant compounds that help soothe facial redness and promote an even-looking tone. Incorporating pure licorice powder into your topical routine offers a simple, natural way to nourish and refresh your skin barrier.

Licorice root helps promote an even skin tone, soothe temporary redness, and protect the skin surface from environmental stressors through its rich flavonoid content.

• Evens Skin Tone: Natural plant compounds help diminish the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation for a balanced complexion.
• Soothes Redness: Naturally occurring glycyrrhizin provides soothing comfort to sensitive, irritated, or flush-prone facial skin.
• Antioxidant Defence: Rich in antioxidants that shield the outer skin layer against daily environmental pollution and stress.
• Balances Surface Oil: Helps manage excess oiliness, making it suitable for both dry and oily botanical skin care rituals.

How Do You Use Licorice Root Powder for Skin?

You can use licorice root powder for skin by mixing it with warm water, carrier oils, or natural yogurt to create nourishing DIY facial masks and pastes.

Preparing herbal skincare treatments at home allows you to combine complementary botanicals for enhanced skin hydration and glow. Below are three simple recipes to explore licorice root benefits for skin using pure herbal ingredients.

1. Soothe & Glow Aloe Mask

This soothing mask combines hydrating aloe with licorice to calm sensitive facial areas.

• 1 tsp organic licorice root powder
• 1 tsp Aloe Vera Powder
• 2 tbsp warm water or rosewater

1. Combine the licorice root powder and Aloe Vera Powder in a small non-metallic bowl.
2. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a smooth, spreadable paste forms.
3. Apply evenly to cleansed facial skin, avoiding the immediate eye area.
4. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water.

2. Brightening Amla Skin Paste

A vitamin-rich facial treatment designed to refresh dull skin and enhance natural radiance.

• 1 tsp organic licorice root powder
• 1/2 tsp Amla Powder
• 2 tbsp plain natural yogurt

1. Mix the licorice root powder and Amla Powder together until evenly distributed.
2. Fold the herbal mixture into the plain yogurt to create a creamy mask.
3. Smooth onto the face and neck using gentle circular motions.
4. Rinse clean after 10 minutes and follow with your preferred facial oil or moisturiser.

3. Softening Herbal Oil Infusion

A gentle oil paste designed to deliver deep moisture to dry skin patches.

• 1 tbsp organic licorice root powder
• 1 tsp Marshmallow Root Powder
• 3 tbsp Fractionated Coconut Oil

1. Combine the botanical powders with the Fractionated Coconut Oil in a small bowl.
2. Stir thoroughly to form a smooth, hydrating oil paste.
3. Apply a thin layer to dry facial areas or rough skin spots.
4. Allow to sit for 15 minutes, then wipe clean with a warm, damp cloth.

Can I Use Licorice Root on My Face Daily?

While topical licorice root powder is generally gentle, using it 2 to 3 times per week is recommended to prevent over-exfoliation or dry skin response.

For most skin types, incorporating licorice root into a weekly skincare routine offers optimal support without overwhelming the delicate skin barrier. Daily use of facial masks may lead to mild surface dryness depending on your individual skin sensitivity. When unlocking licorice root benefits for skin, consistency over several weeks produces the best visible support for clarity and tone.

Licorice Root Topical Formats Compared

Is Licorice Root Safe for Skin?

Topical application of licorice root powder is safe for most skin types, provided a patch test is conducted prior to full facial application.

• Patch Test Recommendation: Always apply a small amount of mixed paste to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to ensure no redness occurs.
• Pregnancy & Nursing: Topical cosmetic use in small amounts is widely considered low-risk, but consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.
• Children's Safety: Keep raw herbal powders away from young children and avoid applying facial masks to delicate pediatric skin.
• Avoid Eye Contact: Take care not to get herbal powder pastes into the eyes; rinse immediately with cool water if contact occurs.
• Storage Guidance: Store your powder in a cool, dry, dark place away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Where to Buy Organic Licorice Root Powder in Australia

At purelyBlack, our pure licorice root powder is micro-milled from high-quality Glycyrrhiza glabra root imported from India. Whether you are formulating custom facial masks or exploring licorice root benefits for skin, our raw botanical powders contain no fillers, synthetics, or additives. All orders are dispatched directly from Sydney with free shipping Australia-wide and no minimum spend required.

Looking to explore internal licorice root benefits for digestion and respiratory comfort? Read our companion guide on Licorice Root Benefits.

Formulated & Written by H.R. Kim
Last updated 16 August 2026

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. purelyBlack herb products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use, particularly if pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a medical condition.