Dark Spots, Pigmentation & Uneven Skin Tone — How Mulethi (Licorice Root) Addresses Them Naturally
You have tried serums. You have tried spot treatments. You have tried layering Vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha arbutin. And those dark spots and pigmentation marks are still there — maybe lighter, but stubbornly present.
If you are looking for a natural ingredient with genuine brightening credentials, mulethi (licorice root) deserves your attention. Here is why.
Why Pigmentation and Dark Spots Are So Stubborn
Pigmentation happens when melanin — the pigment that gives skin its colour — is produced unevenly. This can be triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, post-acne inflammation, or skin injuries. The melanin deposits in deeper layers of the skin, which is why surface-level treatments often show limited results.
Effective pigmentation care needs to work at the melanin production level — not just the surface. This is where mulethi stands out.
How Mulethi Works on Pigmentation
Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra) contains a compound called glabridin — a naturally occurring flavonoid that has been studied for its ability to inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production.
In simple terms: mulethi helps slow down the process that creates excess pigmentation in the first place. It does not bleach the skin. It does not strip colour. It helps the skin regulate its own pigment production more evenly.
This is the difference between brightening and whitening. ARTHEN uses brightening — because mulethi helps skin look more even, radiant, and healthy-toned. Not lighter.
Benefits of Mulethi Powder for Face
1. Helps reduce the appearance of dark spots
With consistent use, mulethi powder helps fade post-acne marks, sun spots, and uneven patches. Results are gradual — expect 4-6 weeks of consistent use for visible improvement.
2. Even skin tone
Mulethi's effect on tyrosinase helps the skin produce melanin more evenly, leading to a smoother, more uniform complexion over time.
3. Anti-inflammatory support
Mulethi has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated skin. This is especially useful for post-acne redness and inflammation-triggered pigmentation.
4. Gentle on all skin types
Unlike chemical brightening agents that can irritate sensitive skin, mulethi is gentle enough for daily-frequency use and suitable for dry, normal, combination, and sensitive skin types.
How to Use Mulethi Powder for Pigmentation
Basic mulethi brightening mask:
Mix 2 tablespoons of ARTHEN Mulethi Powder with rose water to form a smooth paste. Apply to clean skin, focusing on areas with dark spots or uneven tone. Leave for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Mulethi + Orange Peel (brightening boost):
Combine mulethi powder with orange peel powder and rose water. Mulethi addresses deeper pigmentation while orange peel brightens the surface and helps with tan. A powerful dual-action combination.
Mulethi + Neem (post-acne marks):
For acne-prone skin with dark marks, mix mulethi with neem powder and aloe vera gel. Neem purifies and prevents new breakouts while mulethi works on fading existing marks.
How often: 2-3 times per week. Mulethi is gentle enough for frequent use. Consistency is what delivers visible results — not intensity.
What Mulethi Cannot Do
Mulethi helps with surface and mid-level pigmentation. It cannot treat deep dermal melasma, which requires dermatological intervention. It cannot permanently change skin colour. And it does not deliver instant results — this is a gradual, cumulative process.
For mild to moderate pigmentation, post-acne marks, and uneven skin tone, mulethi is one of the most effective natural options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How long does mulethi take to show results on dark spots?
Most people notice improvement in 4-6 weeks of consistent use (2-3 times per week). Deeper pigmentation takes longer. Be patient and stay consistent.
Q. Can mulethi be used on the whole face or just spots?
Both. Apply to the full face for overall even skin tone, or target specific dark spots and patches for concentrated treatment.
Q. Is mulethi safe for use around the mouth and lips?
Yes. Mulethi is gentle and can be applied to lip borders and around the mouth where pigmentation commonly occurs. Avoid ingestion.
Q. Can I use mulethi with my regular skincare routine?
Yes. Mulethi masks can be used alongside your regular routine. Apply the mask on clean skin before your regular moisturiser. Avoid using on the same day as strong chemical exfoliants.
Q. Is mulethi the same as licorice root extract in serums?
Both come from the same plant. Serums contain concentrated extracts, while ARTHEN Mulethi Powder is the whole root in powdered form — delivering glabridin along with the full range of the plant's natural compounds.
This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For persistent or severe pigmentation, consult a qualified dermatologist.