Nades Extractives from Laurus nobilis Leaves: Synergic Functionalities and Skin Efficacy

Laurus nobilis L. is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant, as a high-value spice crop, and for the flavor and fragrance industry. It can be used in natural medicine and cosmetic products due to its antioxidants, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as for its pleasant scent. This study aimed to apply NADES (natural deep eutectic solvents) extraction on Laurus leaves to obtain a natural, ready-to-use cosmetic ingredient with synergistic antioxidant, antimicrobial, and olfactive properties. Different eutectic systems were assessed as NADES solvents, and the extract containing a mixture of betaine/glycerol/lactic acid was selected as the most promising cosmetic ready-to-use ingredient. The NADES complex includes a significant amount of phenolic compounds and exhibits excellent radical scavenging properties, as well as antimicrobial activity against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Moreover, it discloses a pleasant fragrance due to the extraction of characteristic volatile compounds, confirmed by GCMS analysis. The combined properties were successfully tested on volunteers to verify the anti-acne activity of the extract through image acquisition and data analysis. The results showed a significant improvement in skin condition after just 3 days. The whole test lasted 28 days, with a second evaluation conducted at the end of the treatment period.