Rosemary extract (from Rosmarinus officinalis) is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is used in skincare to help protect formulations from oxidation and to provide soothing effects on the skin.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contact dermatitis / skin irritation | Uncommon | May cause redness or irritation, particularly in sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. |
| Allergic contact sensitization | Rare | Documented in patch-test studies, sometimes linked to fragrance components or essential oil fraction. |
| Photosensitivity | Very rare | Occasional reports, generally associated with the essential oil rather than purified extract. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.