Home Supplements That Start With G Glycyrrhetinic acid: Skin Benefits, How to Use, Recommended Dosage, and Safety

Glycyrrhetinic acid: Skin Benefits, How to Use, Recommended Dosage, and Safety

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Glycyrrhetinic acid is the principal active metabolite formed when the sweet-tasting compound in licorice (glycyrrhizin) is broken down. In skincare and topical medicines, it is valued for soothing redness, calming itch, and supporting barrier recovery. Inside the body, however, this same molecule can influence hormone pathways that regulate salt and water balance. That dual story—useful on skin, potentially risky in high oral amounts—explains why experts praise its topical benefits yet urge caution with long-term ingestion. This guide translates the science into practical advice: what it is, how it works, when it helps, how to use it, how much to use, and who should avoid it. You will also learn the clearest safety signals to watch for and how to build a routine that captures benefits while minimizing risk.

Key Insights

  • Topical glycyrrhetinic acid can reduce visible redness and itch and support barrier comfort.
  • Oral overuse may raise blood pressure and lower potassium by altering cortisol metabolism.
  • Typical topical use: 0.5–2% creams or serums once or twice daily; limit regular oral glycyrrhizin intake to ≤100 mg/day.
  • Avoid oral use if you have hypertension, heart, kidney, or liver disease, are pregnant, or use diuretics or corticosteroids.

Table of Contents

What is glycyrrhetinic acid and how it works

Glycyrrhetinic acid (often written as 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid) is a triterpenoid derived from licorice root (Glycyrrhiza species). When you ingest licorice or glycyrrhizin-containing products, intestinal enzymes and gut microbes convert glycyrrhizin into glycyrrhetinic acid, which is then absorbed and further metabolized. In topical products, glycyrrhetinic acid or its cosmetic derivatives (such as stearyl glycyrrhetinate and various glycyrrhizate salts) are added directly to formulations for their soothing, anti-redness properties.

Two modes of action explain most of its effects:

  1. Anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing activity (topical). In vitro and preclinical data show that glycyrrhetinic acid can modulate inflammatory signaling in keratinocytes and immune cells and may reduce mediators linked to redness and itch. In human skin, it is commonly used to calm irritation after procedures, support comfort in conditions with barrier disruption, and reduce the look of reactive redness. The molecule is lipophilic, and cosmetic esters (for example, stearyl glycyrrhetinate) are used to improve stability and sensorial feel on skin.
  2. Mineralocorticoid-like effects via enzyme inhibition (systemic). In the kidney and some other tissues, an enzyme called 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2) normally converts active cortisol into inactive cortisone so that cortisol does not trigger the mineralocorticoid receptor. Glycyrrhetinic acid and certain sulfated or glucuronidated metabolites can inhibit this enzyme. When that happens, cortisol acts like aldosterone, leading to sodium and water retention with potassium loss—producing “pseudoaldosteronism.” Clinically, that may appear as swelling, elevated blood pressure, headaches, muscle weakness, and low potassium.

Understanding this split—soothing on skin, hormonally active when absorbed systemically—is the key to using glycyrrhetinic acid well. Topical use targets the skin with minimal systemic exposure. Oral overuse, or accumulation in susceptible people, raises the risk for blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances. Genetics, gut transit time, albumin levels, age, and liver function can all modify how much of the active metabolites circulate and reach the kidney enzyme target.

Finally, terminology matters. Licorice products come in several forms:

  • Glycyrrhizin/glycyrrhizic acid (the sweet saponin from licorice) is the dietary compound that converts into glycyrrhetinic acid after ingestion.
  • Glycyrrhetinic acid is the aglycone (metabolite).
  • Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) has most glycyrrhizin removed to reduce systemic mineralocorticoid-like effects; it is used for gastrointestinal comfort but does not deliver meaningful amounts of glycyrrhetinic acid.

Knowing which form appears on your label helps you estimate risk and pick the right product for your goal (topical soothing versus ingestion).

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Benefits you can realistically expect

Topical care (primary use). The clearest, most practical benefits of glycyrrhetinic acid are seen when it is applied to skin. In leave-on creams, serums, gels, and post-procedure balms, it is used to:

  • Reduce visible redness and irritation. By moderating inflammatory messengers in the epidermis, formulas containing glycyrrhetinic acid can visibly calm reactive, wind- or razor-irritated, or over-exfoliated skin. Many combination products pair it with panthenol, ceramides, or niacinamide to reinforce the barrier.
  • Soothe itch and stinging sensations. People with dry, tight, or reactive skin often report improved comfort within days of consistent use. In scalp and facial care, glycyrrhetinate salts are also found in soothing lotions and shampoos intended for sensitive or flaky skin.
  • Support barrier recovery. By tempering local inflammation, glycyrrhetinic acid can create a friendlier environment for barrier lipids to re-organize, helping skin feel less tight and look less blotchy. Cosmetic safety assessments report topical use levels that balance efficacy with tolerability, and finished formulas are generally well tolerated even on sensitive skin.

Dermatologic adjunct (emerging). Early research suggests potential roles for glycyrrhetinic acid–containing topicals as adjuncts in wound care and inflammatory dermatoses. These applications are still building evidence and, in practice, are typically used with rather than instead of standard care such as emollients, sun protection, and clinician-directed therapies. For day-to-day users, this means it can be a useful “comfort” ingredient in a routine but should not replace prescribed treatment for chronic skin conditions.

Oral licorice products (secondary and cautious). Some people take licorice extracts by mouth for throat comfort or digestive support. Because oral intake ultimately yields glycyrrhetinic acid systemically, the risk-benefit balance changes:

  • Short-term throat and upper airway soothing is a common reason people use licorice lozenges. Any such use should be brief and mindful of total glycyrrhizin content.
  • Gastrointestinal comfort products differ widely in composition. If digestive support is your goal, DGL formulations (with most glycyrrhizin removed) are the lower-risk choice because they are designed to minimize the mineralocorticoid-like effects that come from glycyrrhetinic acid formation.

Who benefits most.

  • People with reactive or redness-prone skin seeking a gentle, non-acidic soothing ingredient to pair with retinoids, exfoliating acids, or after shaving/waxing.
  • Those assembling a barrier-supportive routine (e.g., after procedures, during seasonal dryness, or when using potent actives).

What to expect.

  • Topical: A calmer look and improved comfort typically within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, with further gains in evenness and feel over 4–8 weeks as the barrier stabilizes.
  • Oral: There is no broadly accepted long-term wellness indication for oral glycyrrhetinic acid. If you use licorice for short-term throat comfort, treat it like a medicine: brief, conservative, and label-conscious.

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How to use it and typical dosage

Topical use (preferred for most people).

  • Strengths commonly found: Glycyrrhetinic acid up to 2% in leave-on cosmetic formulas; stearyl glycyrrhetinate up to 1%; dipotassium glycyrrhizate and other salts often between 0.5% and 1%.
  • How to apply: After cleansing, use a pea-sized amount on damp skin, once daily for the first week, then increase to twice daily if well tolerated. For a scalp lotion or shampoo, follow product directions; leave-on lotions are often used once daily, while shampoos are used 2–3 times weekly.
  • Layering tips: Pair with ceramide-rich moisturizers and daily sunscreen. If also using retinoids or exfoliating acids, apply glycyrrhetinic acid either in the same moisturizer or as a separate soothing step to offset dryness or stinging.
  • Patch test: Apply a small amount to the inner forearm or behind the ear once daily for 3 days before first facial use, especially if you have highly reactive skin.

Oral intake (use sparingly and only if necessary).

  • If you consume licorice or glycyrrhizin-containing products: Keep regular daily glycyrrhizin intake at or below 100 mg/day (all sources combined). This pragmatic ceiling is intended to protect most healthy adults from electrolyte shifts and blood pressure changes. Because labels vary, look for products that disclose glycyrrhizin per serving.
  • Sensitive groups: Consider substantially lower exposure or avoidance (see the safety section) if you have high blood pressure, heart, kidney, or liver disease; if you are older; or if you use diuretics or corticosteroids.
  • Duration: Keep any oral use short and intermittent. The risk of side effects rises with both dose and duration because key metabolites recirculate via the gut-liver axis.

Dosing examples to interpret labels.

  • A topical cream listing “glycyrrhetinic acid (0.5–2%)” is within customary cosmetic use ranges.
  • A throat lozenge that lists “licorice extract providing 20 mg glycyrrhizin” would count 20 mg toward the ≤100 mg/day cautionary limit. Multiple products on the same day add up quickly.
  • “Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL)” signals low glycyrrhizin content and is chosen when people want to avoid the mineralocorticoid-like effects.

When to stop or adjust.

  • For topical products, discontinue if you experience persistent burning, worsening redness, or hives.
  • For oral licorice or glycyrrhizin-containing products, stop immediately and seek care if you notice ankle swelling, new or worsening hypertension, severe fatigue, muscle weakness, cramps, or an irregular heartbeat.

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Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Mistake 1: Treating “natural” as “risk-free.”
Glycyrrhetinic acid comes from a plant, but its pharmacology is real. The same enzyme effects that calm skin can also shift electrolytes when enough reaches the kidneys. Approach oral products with the same caution you would for over-the-counter medicines.

Fix: For ingestion, total your daily glycyrrhizin intake across candies, teas, herbal blends, and supplements. Keep regular use at or below 100 mg/day—lower if you are in any sensitive group—or choose DGL products when appropriate.

Mistake 2: Confusing ingredient names on labels.
“Licorice root,” “glycyrrhizin,” “glycyrrhetinic acid,” and “stearyl glycyrrhetinate” are related but not interchangeable. Some provide the aglycone directly (topical), others convert to it after ingestion (oral). Strengths and risks differ accordingly.

Fix: For skincare, look for clearly labeled percentages (for example, 0.5–2% glycyrrhetinic acid or 0.5–1% dipotassium glycyrrhizate). For any oral product, look for glycyrrhizin per serving and favor brands that disclose this number.

Mistake 3: Stacking sources without realizing it.
Many cough syrups, lozenges, herbal teas, and even some tobaccos or confectioneries contain licorice derivatives. It is easy to cross the safety threshold unintentionally.

Fix: During periods of oral use, pause other licorice-containing items. Read ingredient lists on teas and “throat comfort” products, and keep a running tally.

Mistake 4: Using it as a stand-alone treatment for chronic conditions.
Glycyrrhetinic acid is supportive, not curative. For chronic skin diseases, it should complement, not replace, clinician-directed therapy. For digestive complaints, consider evaluation for underlying causes instead of long-term self-treatment.

Fix: Use topical glycyrrhetinic acid to improve comfort and adherence to your regimen while staying on your prescribed plan. Seek medical assessment if you need oral products beyond short, clearly defined periods.

Mistake 5: Ignoring early side-effect clues.
Subtle changes—new headaches, ankle puffiness, higher home blood-pressure readings, muscle cramps—often precede more serious problems.

Fix: If you are ingesting licorice products, check blood pressure at home several times per week. Stop and consult a clinician if your readings rise, you develop swelling, or you feel weak or light-headed. Ask about a potassium check if symptoms occur.

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Safety, interactions, and who should not use it

Topical safety. Cosmetic safety assessments report that leave-on formulas containing glycyrrhetinic acid (up to 2%) and common esters/salts (for example, stearyl glycyrrhetinate up to 1%, dipotassium glycyrrhizate up to about 1%) are generally well tolerated. As with any active, rare users may experience irritation or allergy. Patch-testing is wise for highly reactive skin.

Oral risks (the big picture). When glycyrrhetinic acid or its metabolites inhibit 11β-HSD2, cortisol drives sodium retention and potassium loss. The result can be pseudoaldosteronism with edema, hypertension, suppressed renin and aldosterone, metabolic alkalosis, and hypokalemia. In sensitive people, even moderate intake for days to weeks can be enough to tip this balance. Risk rises with dose, duration, slow gut transit, low serum albumin, older age, and certain co-medications.

Absolute or strong cautions for oral use. Avoid oral licorice/glycyrrhizin products—or use only with clinician guidance—if you have:

  • Hypertension, heart failure, coronary disease, or arrhythmia.
  • Chronic kidney disease or a history of low potassium.
  • Significant liver disease or hypoalbuminemia.
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Endocrine conditions affecting cortisol/aldosterone pathways (e.g., Cushing-related states).
  • Older age with comorbidities or polypharmacy.

Medication interactions to consider.

  • Diuretics (loop or thiazide): Additive potassium loss and blood-pressure effects.
  • Corticosteroids: Synergistic effects on mineralocorticoid signaling.
  • Digoxin: Hypokalemia increases digoxin toxicity risk; avoid this combination.
  • ACE inhibitors/ARBs or potassium-sparing diuretics: These may blunt or complicate electrolyte changes—do not rely on them to “cancel out” licorice effects.
  • Hormonal therapies or oral contraceptives: Use caution and discuss with a clinician.

Warning signs that require stopping oral use and seeking care.
New edema (especially ankles), sustained blood pressure elevation, headaches, muscle weakness or cramps, palpitations or irregular heartbeat, or severe fatigue. These may reflect low potassium and demand prompt evaluation.

Bottom line on safety.

  • Topical: Appropriately formulated products are generally low risk and suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Oral: Treat licorice and glycyrrhizin as pharmacologically active. Keep regular intake ≤100 mg/day, reduce or avoid in sensitive groups, and use for short periods only.

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What the evidence says and the research gaps

Mechanism and risk are well characterized. Human volunteer studies, safety committee opinions, and numerous case reports define a consistent mechanism: glycyrrhetinic acid and certain metabolites inhibit renal 11β-HSD2, allowing cortisol to act on mineralocorticoid receptors. Clinically, this produces a repeatable pattern—elevated blood pressure, low potassium, edema—that resolves when intake stops and electrolytes are corrected. On this basis, regulators and scientific committees advise keeping regular glycyrrhizin intake at or below 100 mg/day for most adults, with recognition that some subgroups may react at lower intakes.

Topical use is supported by safety assessments and growing practice-based evidence. Cosmetic ingredient reviews document concentrations used across leave-on categories (for example, glycyrrhetinic acid up to 2%; stearyl glycyrrhetinate up to 1%), and these levels are generally well tolerated. Laboratory and preclinical findings align with everyday experience: glycyrrhetinic acid–containing topicals can calm visible redness, itch, and stinging sensations, and pair well with barrier-supportive routines. Controlled clinical trials directly quantifying these improvements are still comparatively limited, and many marketed formulas include multiple soothing actives, making attribution to a single ingredient challenging.

Oral benefit claims remain narrower than the risks. Historically, licorice derivatives were explored for peptic ulcers and other gastrointestinal issues. Modern practice has largely shifted toward deglycyrrhizinated forms to avoid glycyrrhetinic acid–related mineralocorticoid effects. For most readers, the prudent approach is to reserve oral licorice for short, symptom-targeted use (such as brief throat soothing), opt for DGL when digestive comfort is sought, and keep daily glycyrrhizin intake conservative.

Key gaps and sensible next steps.

  • Better dose-response data in real-world users—especially in older adults, people with slow gut transit, and those on common interacting drugs—would sharpen safety advice beyond a one-number ceiling.
  • Head-to-head topical trials isolating glycyrrhetinic acid versus other soothing actives would clarify its unique contribution to redness and itch reduction.
  • Biomarker-guided safety monitoring (for example, using easily measured surrogates of metabolite handling) could help identify individuals at risk before symptoms emerge.

Practical takeaway. The science is strong enough to embrace topical glycyrrhetinic acid as a reliable comfort ingredient and to handle oral licorice with respect. If you want the soothing without the systemic trade-offs, keep it on your skin, not in your mug.

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References

Disclaimer

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk with a qualified healthcare professional about your individual health, medications, and supplement choices—especially if you have heart, kidney, or liver conditions; high blood pressure; are pregnant or breastfeeding; or take diuretics, corticosteroids, or heart medicines. Never ignore professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

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