Reversing Glycation with a Dietary Supplement Containing Rosemary Extract

The authors sought to explore the skin deglycation ability of rosemary extract dietary supplements to support skin health and improve the signs of skin aging.

A PubMed literature search for English-language articles on rosemary extract effects on glycation and skin aging in clinical and/or preclinical settings was conducted.

Endogenous and exogenous glycative stress and reactive oxygen species lead to the accumulation of advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs), accelerating skin aging. Rosemary extract, and its active polyphenol, rosmarinic acid (RA), exhibit antiglycative and antioxidant effects, preventing AGE formation. Rosemary reduces reactive intermediates in the glycation pathway, decreases protein carbonylation, and protects against environmental stressors. Rosemary has shown potential in reversing glycation, benefiting skin health by protecting collagen and elastin. Both topical and oral delivery methods have been investigated and have shown to be beneficial. Manufacturing and extraction methods are critical in preserving essential and synergistic components of the extract when optimizing formulation development.

As a narrative review, the selection of the literature was not fully comprehensive, thus introducing a potential for bias. However, our aim was to provide insights into the impacts of glycation and RA on skin quality and health.

Rosemary extract and RA appear to exhibit antiglycative effects, both interrupting AGE formation and AGE-protein crosslinks, making them promising compounds for skin health. However, further research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms and therapeutic potential.