Dermal problems are very common, and they affect people of all ages. They place a great psychological burden on the individual and reduce the quality of life, and skin diseases represent a great economic burden for treatment and prevention. Topical application of drugs is the best choice for the treatment of such symptoms due to its rapid onset of action and reduction of the possibility of systemic side effects, and herbal preparations are becoming an increasingly popular choice for patients when treating more benign conditions. The aim of this work was to review the literature on the topical application and effects of the rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.) and determine the clinical significance of these effects on skin diseases and the potential for use in cosmetic preparations. Rosemary is a plant from the Mediterranean area, it is rich in polyphenolic components and triterpenes, and its essential oil is rich in oxygenated monoterpenes. It is known for its antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. These effects have great potential in the treatment and prevention of skin diseases and conditions, especially after topical application of the preparations. In the available literature, the most prominent are studies that examined the effect on alopecia, inflammatory skin diseases, dermatitis, including atopic dermatitis, wound healing and skin aging. Although even a few clinical studies have been conducted that confirm positive effect of rosemary in these indications, further extensive research is needed to additionally clarify the mechanisms of action and the compounds responsible for the effects.