Olfactory receptors (ORs) are expressed and active in various human tissues, including the skin. 

A recent article published in Molecules investigated the role of newly identified skin ORs and agonists in the modulation of skin stress. 

This was a randomized double-blinded, split-face clinical study that entailed screening for odorant molecules with cAMP functional assay to identify OR agonists. RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence microscopy were conducted to identify and quantify ORs in epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) and human skin explants, as well as to evaluate specific markers(G6PDH, loricrin, and γH2AX) of stress-induced skin alterations. A panel of stressed women was selected to measure the benefits of OR agonist treatment for the skin.

The results identified a specific Rose extract and its major constituent (phenylethyl alcohol) that could activate these ORs. The extract composition showed the presence of 34 volatiles molecules. The rose extract acts by preventing the epinephrine-induced a skin-stress response that leads to a decrease of OR expression. The benefits of the rose extract were confirmed clinically by reduced visibility of under-eye dark circles. 

Hence, ORs may represent a new, promising way to treat stress-associated skin disorders. The rose extract can be used for cosmetic applications to fight stress-induced skin fatigue and to boost natural skin defenses against external and internal daily stressors.

Source: Molecules. 2020 Oct 16;25(20):4743. doi: 10.3390/molecules25204743.