Biochemical studies of a natural antioxidant isolated from rosemary and its application in cosmetic dermatology

Oxidative damage to DNA, RNA, proteins and cell membranes occurs when the c ellular concentration of reactive oxygen species exceeds the capacity of th e cell to eliminate them. Aerobic prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms have developed a set of cell defense systems to mitigate the damaging effects o f reactive oxygen species. Epithelial surfaces contain antioxidants that co uld be expected to provide a defence against environmental stress caused by reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Skin, which has a highly differentia ted and complex structure, is particularly vulnerable to free radical damag e because of its contact with oxygen and with other environmental stimuli F ruit and Vegetables contain several classes of compounds that when ingested can potentially contribute to endogenous modulation of antioxidant defence s. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a natu ral extract derived from rosemary to protect free radical-induced skin dama ge. We provide evidence that an alcoholic extract of rosemary leaves, Rosm1 , is endowed with strong antioxidant activity and, as evaluated by both in vitro and in vivo systems, is capable of inhibiting oxidative alterations t o skin surface lipids. The present study provides a preclinical perspective on the interface between the biochemical properties of a natural extract i solated from rosemary leaves, a better understanding of the endogenous anti oxidant potential of skin and the real validity of natural antioxidant biot echnology in antiaging skin management.