Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that comes with its unique set of challenges - and one of the challenges that pregnant women can face is finding safe skincare products. The skincare industry has for years included ingredients such as licorice root - a sweet tasting substance that's also been used in Chinese medicine for centuries - in their products. This ingredient is generally considered safe for most people to ingest and come into contact with, however it poses a hidden danger for pregnant women. In this article, the Limerick team will answer the question 'why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?' we'll also look at some alternatives to this ingredient, and explore some concerns that have been raised about licorice consumption in general when pregnant. Let's take a look…
Limerick investigates: Why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?
Why is Licorice Root Used in Skincare Products?
Due to its capacity to brighten and even out skin tone, licorice root is frequently used as a component in cosmetic skincare products. Licorice root possesses these qualities because it contains glabridin, which lessens skin inflammation and hyperpigmentation. Thus, the existence of this compound contributes significantly to licorice root's potency as an anti-inflammatory agent, which allows it to effectively calm the skin and lessen redness. Given these qualities, it is understandable why the skincare sector has accepted the inclusion of this ingredient in their products.
Limerick investigates: Why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?
The Hidden Danger: Glycyrrhizin in Licorice Root
So, why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy? The main concern with using licorice root during pregnancy is its high concentration of glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin is a potent naturally-occurring chemical compound found in licorice root that can cause a number of potential health risks to a pregnant woman or her baby - including the following:
Hormonal imbalance
Licorice root can cause general hormonal imbalances in the body, which unfortunately can lead to serious complications in pregnancy.
Water retention
Additionally, glycyrrhizin can cause the body to retain water, leading to swelling in the legs and feet, a common symptom of pregnancy that can worsen with the use of licorice root.
Increased blood pressure
The compound has been shown to increase blood pressure, which can lead to pre-eclampsia, a dangerous pregnancy complication that can lead to premature birth and even maternal death.
Placental development issues
Additionally, glycyrrhizin can interfere with the development of the placenta, leading to poor fetal growth and development. As a result, the use of skincare products containing licorice root during pregnancy can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the unborn child.
When it comes to answering today's featured question 'why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?' the simple answer is therefore 'exposure to Glycyrrhizin'. So, what steps should pregnant women take to limit the risk of exposure to Glycyrrhizin?
Limerick investigates: Why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?
Checking Skincare Product Ingredients for Licorice Root
It's essential to read the labels of skincare products carefully and check the ingredients of any beauty or medicinal product that you do use diligently to avoid the use of licorice root during pregnancy. It's also important to realise that licorice root can be listed under several names, including Glycyrrhiza glabra, liquorice, and sweet root. To make sure that you're avoiding licorice root, it's essential to check the ingredients list carefully and also avoid products that mention any of these other names too.
Limerick investigates: Why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?
Alternatives to Licorice Root in Skincare Products During Pregnancy
Fortunately, there are several alternatives to licorice root in skincare products that pregnant women can use. One of the most effective ingredients is vitamin C, which is known for its ability to brighten and even out the skin tone. Additionally, vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can protect the skin from free radicals, which can cause premature aging. Other safe alternatives include niacinamide, kojic acid, and arbutin, all of which are known for their ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out the skin tone. Salicylic acid has similar overall properties to licorice root and may be used in limited quantities as an alternative.
Limerick investigates: Why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?
Other Potential Sources Of Licorice Root
Licorice root isn't just found in skincare products however. It has a number of other potential uses and benefits, which can make it a beneficial ingredient to use in a number of items that pregnant women may encounter regularly in other areas of their everyday life.
Understanding the other benefits licorice root can have when not pregnant
Licorice root is a natural anti-inflammatory, and it is also known to make hair shiny as well. Perhaps not surprisingly in addition to these health benefits it also tastes strongly of licorice, and can be used as a flavouring agent to give food a licorice flavour.
What other substances might contain licorice root?
Because of the properties discussed above, licorice root may also be found in items such as:
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Deodorant
- Lotions and creams
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Anti-inflammatory medication & other treatments for muscular ailments
- Treatments for skin conditions such as acne and rosacea
- Lip balm
- Chewing gum
- Throat lozenges
- Teas
Limerick investigates: Why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?
Is It Just Licorice Root That Pregnant Women Need To Worry About?
Hopefully by now we have answered the question of 'why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?' in a clear and easily understood way. However as we've seen, it's not just skincare products that pregnant women need to be aware of, and sadly licorice root may not be the only potential risk to pregnant women. A 2017 study from Finland indicated that there may be a link between licorice consumption during pregnancy and cognitive development issues after birth and during childhood - including low IQ, or behavioral conditions like ADHD, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.
Limerick investigates: Why is licorice root in skincare bad for pregnancy?
Conclusion
Because of the known risks posed by licorice root, as well as the uncertainty about licorice in general and the harm it might cause during pregnancy, pregnant women want to take the decision to avoid using (or eating) any products containing any form of licorice altogether until after having given birth.
For more information on possible substances to avoid in order to keep your unborn baby safe during pregnancy, including guidance on the consumption of alcohol, why not take a look at the resource center section of our site?