Rosmarinus Officinalis Water
INCI: ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS WATER
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
A botanical water with antioxidant and purifying properties derived from rosemary
Best For Skin Types
All, Oily, Combination, Acne-prone
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
Rosmarinus Officinalis Water products at Skintique
View all →What Is Rosmarinus Officinalis Water?
Rosmarinus officinalis water is a hydrolat or floral water produced from the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis), a Mediterranean herb from the Lamiaceae family. It contains water-soluble compounds extracted from rosemary leaves, including phenolic compounds and flavonoids that contribute to its skincare activity.
In cosmetic formulations, it primarily serves as a masking agent to add fragrance and sensory appeal, whilst also contributing antioxidant and antimicrobial properties to the product.
How It Works
Rosemary water contains natural compounds, particularly phenolic molecules and flavonoids, that work through multiple mechanisms. These molecules can neutralise free radicals—unstable atoms generated by UV exposure and environmental stressors—that would otherwise damage skin cells and collagen.
In laboratory settings, rosemary extract has demonstrated an ability to suppress the activation of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), an enzyme that breaks down collagen when skin is exposed to UV radiation. The antimicrobial properties appear to stem from these same active compounds, which show inhibitory effects against certain skin bacteria and fungi.
Clinical Evidence & References
Research on rosemary water and rosemary extracts suggests several potential benefits, though most evidence comes from in vitro (laboratory) and animal studies rather than human clinical trials. A study using reconstructed human skin models found that water-soluble rosemary extract inhibited UV-induced MMP-1 expression, suggesting a photoprotective mechanism. Other research has documented antimicrobial activity against various skin bacteria and dermatophyte strains in controlled conditions.
However, these findings do not yet establish how effective rosemary water would be in a finished skincare product at typical use concentrations. The ingredient is found in only a small proportion of skincare products, and robust human efficacy data remains limited. The evidence is sufficient to suggest biological activity, but claims should be measured until larger-scale human studies are available.
Published Research
How to Use
Rosemary water is typically used as a minor component in toners, hydrating essences, or serums where it contributes both fragrance and antioxidant benefit. Because it is a hydrolat, it works well in water-based formulations and can be layered beneath heavier treatments. If using a product containing it, apply to clean skin and follow with your other skincare steps as normal. No special application technique is required.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Rosmarinus Officinalis Water is a variant of Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
A plant extract with purifying and antioxidant properties used in skincare formulations
Related Ingredients
Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract
A plant extract with purifying and antioxidant properties used in skincare formulations
Rosmarinus Officinalis Flower Oil
A fragrant botanical oil traditionally used in skincare formulations
Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf
A botanical extract with antioxidant properties, used to condition and protect skin
Rosmarinus Officinalis Stem Oil
A fragrant plant oil traditionally used in skincare formulations
Rosmarinus Officinalis Flower Extract
A plant extract with antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties from rosemary flowers
Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Powder
A botanical powder that conditions skin and helps mask minor imperfections
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