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Skincare Ingredient

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Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract

In Skincare: Is Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects

Safety (overall safety)
2/5 — Low risk
Irritancy (skin irritation)
3/5 — Moderate risk

Safety Information

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has noted that Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin; the Environmental Working Group (EWG) rates it with moderate concerns due to potential for skin irritation.

Quick Insights

At a glance

  • 01

    Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract provides a natural source of antioxidants for skin.

  • 02

    In cosmetic formulations, rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract is often “de-oiled” to remove the volatile components.

  • 03

    Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract may offer a soothing effect on skin.

  • 04

    Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract can support the preservative system in certain cosmetic formulas.

Key Benefits

What Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract does for your skin

2 benefits
Anti-Aging
Soothing

Overview

Ingredient Profile

Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, derived from a Mediterranean plant, offers antioxidant properties that can help protect skin from damage. It contains compounds like rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, carnosol, and carnosic acid, which neutralize free radicals and may soothe skin. While rosemary extract generally exhibits lower potential for irritation compared to rosemary oil, variations in efficacy can occur due to differences in plant origin and extraction methods. It may also support the effectiveness of preservatives, potentially reducing their concentration in formulations.
Classifications
Plant Extracts
Antioxidant

Role of Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract

Active Cosmetic Mechanisms

ANTIMICROBIAL

Germ Fighter

Inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Antimicrobial agents possess bactericidal, bacteriostatic, fungicidal, or fungistatic properties through disrupting cell membrane integrity, inhibiting protein synthesis, interfering with metabolic pathways, or damaging DNA/RNA. Common antimicrobials include quaternary ammonium compounds, alcohols, chlorhexidine, triclosan, and essential oils. Efficacy depends on concentration, pH, contact time, and microbial load.

FRAGRANCE

Scent Provider

Adds pleasant scent to cosmetic products

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Fragrance ingredients provide aromatic appeal through essential oils, aroma chemicals, and natural extracts. These volatile compounds interact with olfactory receptors creating scent perception. Fragrance design considers top notes (high volatility), middle notes (moderate volatility), and base notes (low volatility) for scent development over time. Must consider stability, allergen content, and regulatory compliance.

SKIN CONDITIONING

Skin Enhancer

Maintains skin in good condition and improves its feel

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Skin conditioning ingredients enhance appearance, texture, and health of skin through various mechanisms. This broad category encompasses emollients, humectants, occlusives, and other agents that improve skin feel, appearance, and function. May work by moisturizing, smoothing, softening, or protecting skin. Effects include improved tactile properties, enhanced barrier function, and better overall skin condition.

Products

containing Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract

5085 formulations
Super Restorative Remodelling Serum
Super Restorative Remodelling Serum
Clarins · serums-treatment
Nutricentials® Complexion Protection
Nutricentials® Complexion Protection
Nu Skin · sunscreen
M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42
M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42
Missha · moisturizer

References

Scientific sources

[1]

International Journal of Molecular Sciences, October 2021, pages 1–20

[2]

Antioxidants, April 2019, pages 1–16

[3]

Medicines, June 2018, pages 1-13

[4]

Plant Physiology, November 2017, pages 1,381–1,394

[5]

International Journal of Molecular Sciences, November 2014, pages 20,585-20,606

[6]

Pharmacognosy Review, January-June 2014, pages 52-60

[7]

Journal of Medicinal Food, April 2013, pages 324-333

[8]

Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, January 1996, pages

Semantic Analysis

Similar Ingredients

Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract — common questions

What is Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract in skincare?

Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract is an extract of the leaves of the Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis L., Lamiaceae

What does Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract do? / Functions of Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract?

Common functions: ANTIMICROBIAL, FRAGRANCE, SKIN CONDITIONING.

What is the comedogenic rating of Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract? / Is Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract comedogenic?

The comedogenic rating of Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract has not been established in our database.

Does it clog pores?
No Rating Available

Whether Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.

Is Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract safe for skin?
2 2/5 — Low risk

Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has noted that Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin; the Environme

Is Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract good for sensitive skin?
3 3/5 — Moderate risk

Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract has an irritancy rating of 3 out of 5. A rating of 3 means it may cause mild irritation for some.

What are the side effects of Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract in skincare?

Known considerations: The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has noted that Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin; the Environmental Working Group (EWG) rates it with moderate concerns due to potential for skin irritation. Additional risks: skin irritation (irritancy rating 3/5).

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