Licorice Extract vs Retinal
Both target pigmentation. Here's how they differ, and whether you should pick one or use both.
| Licorice Extract | Retinal | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Pigmentation and redness | Aging, acne, texture and pigmentation |
| Typical strength | varies (glabridin ~0.5%) | 0.05% – 0.2% |
| Best time | AM/PM | PM |
| Irritation | ||
| Best for | Sensitive, Normal, Combination, Dry And Oily | Normal, Oily, Combination And Dry |
| Pregnancy | Safe | Avoid |
| Price in India | ₹400 – ₹1,500 | ₹900 – ₹3,000 |
The verdict
For pigmentation, Retinal is the stronger option, while Licorice Extract is gentler and better suited to sensitive or beginner skin.
Using both? Safe to mix There is no known chemical conflict between Licorice Extract and Retinal, and neither makes the other less effective. They share a goal (pigmentation), so together they reinforce each other. 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.
Retinal in short
Retinaldehyde is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, so it works faster than retinol while usually being gentler than tretinoin. It also has a mild antibacterial effect useful for acne.
Not sure which fits your skin?
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