Licorice Extract vs Niacinamide
Both target pigmentation and redness. Here's how they differ, and whether you should pick one or use both.
| Licorice Extract | Niacinamide | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Pigmentation and redness | Oil control, pigmentation, barrier, acne and redness |
| Typical strength | varies (glabridin ~0.5%) | 2% – 10% |
| Best time | AM/PM | AM/PM |
| Irritation | ||
| Best for | Sensitive, Normal, Combination, Dry And Oily | Oily, Combination, Normal, Sensitive And Dry |
| Pregnancy | Safe | Safe |
| Price in India | ₹400 – ₹1,500 | ₹300 – ₹1,200 |
The verdict
For pigmentation and redness, Niacinamide is the stronger option, while Licorice Extract is gentler and better suited to sensitive or beginner skin.
Using both? Great combo Both are gentle brighteners that also calm redness, so they suit sensitive skin with dark marks. How to layer them →
Licorice Extract in short
Licorice root (mulethi) contains glabridin, which gently inhibits pigment production, and glycyrrhizinates, which calm redness. It is a mild brightener suited to sensitive skin.
Niacinamide in short
An all-rounder that controls oil, strengthens the skin barrier, reduces redness and evens out tone. It gets along with almost every other active, which is why it is in so many routines.
Not sure which fits your skin?
The routine builder picks actives for your skin type, concern and climate automatically.