The present invention relates to the use of plant extracts from the genus Daphne for the cosmetic treatment of the skin and to cosmetic preparations which comprise extracts of Daphne giraldii and/or Daphne gnidium or other members of the genus Daphne containing daphnetoxin and/or other daphnane diterpenoids for skin treatment. The plant extracts and cosmetic preparations are particularly useful for stimulation of the lymphatic system for rejuvenation, anti-ageing, detoxification or increased firmness of the skin, for puffy-eye treatment or for anti-swelling effect.