Glycyrrhetinic Acid

INCI: 18β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid

Also known as: Enoxolone

BotanicalssoothingbotanicalModerate evidencePregnancy safe

Skinlumis Rating

Comedogenic

0/5

Irritancy

0/5

Best applied

Both

Effective range

0.1%–2%

How It Works

A licorice-derived triterpenoid with cortisol-like anti-inflammatory action. Used in soothing and after-sun formulations.

Inhibits 11-β-HSD, prolonging local cortisol activity for steroid-like anti-inflammation without steroid side effects.

pH Range

4.0–7.0

Benefits

Strong anti-inflammatory
Soothes erythema
Suitable for rosacea

Proven For

What the evidence supports.

RosaceaSensitivityPost-procedure

Best For

All skin types

Avoid If

No notable contraindications reported.

Layering Order

4/10

Mid-routine serum or treatment step.

Max Safe Concentration

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.1%–2%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Effective stand-in when topical steroids are contraindicated for prolonged use.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Glycyrrhetinic Acid.

4 peer-reviewed studies

Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.

Systematic Review

Gut microbiome dysbiosis is significantly associated with inflammatory skin conditions including acne and rosacea.

Dréno B, Dagnelie MA, Khammari A, Corvec S
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020

View Study →

Randomized Controlled Trial

Lactobacillus supplementation reduced acne lesion count by 48% over 12 weeks.

Bowe W, Patel NB, Logan AC
Beneficial Microbes, 2014

View Study →

Systematic Review

Chronic psychological stress elevates cortisol, accelerating skin aging through collagen degradation and barrier disruption.

Chen Y, Lyga J
Inflammation and Allergy Drug Targets, 2014

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Randomized Controlled Trial

Ceramide-dominant emollients improved skin barrier function by 63% within 6 weeks.

Draelos ZD, Ertel K, Berge C
Cutis, 2006

View Study →

Pairs Well With

Centella Asiatica Bisabolol

Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility