Myrtus Communis Extract

Bad

Fragrance Synthetic and Natural

No known benefits

Myrtus Communis Extract at a glance

  • A plant extract also known as Myrtle extract
  • Contains sensitizing, fragrant components, like linalool and limonene
  • Has established antioxidant benefits
  • Can help skin combat environments that contribute to breakouts

Myrtus Communis Extract description

_Myrtus communis_ extract is a plant-based ingredient derived from the common or true myrtle shrub. It’s primarily used in skin care for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Although _Myrtus communis_ extract contains beneficial compounds, it also contains volatile, fragrant components like 1,8-cineole, limonene, linalool and α-terpinolene. When exposed to air, limonene and linalool oxidize and become capable of sensitizing skin. Separately, 1,8-cineole and α-terpinolene are volatile aromatic compounds, with the ability to cause both short- and long-term skin sensitization, including tightness, dryness, itchiness, redness in lighter skin tones and a darkening, or purple coloring, in darker skin tones. Although _Myrtus communis_ extract contains a potent mix of fragrant, possible skin sensitizers, it also possesses polyphenols with antioxidant benefits and antimicrobial properties. Research demonstrates that _Myrtus communis_ extract works to hinder the organisms on skin responsible for creating environments that lead to breakouts. Overall, _Myrtus communis_ extract provides mixed results for skin and is best avoided due to its volatile, sensitizing components.

Myrtus Communis Extract references

  • Contact Dermatitis, February 2022, pages 113-119
  • Journal of Pharmacopuncture, December 2020, pages 220-229
  • Chemical Research in Toxicology, May 2020, pages 1,922-1,932
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, August 2019, pages 1,061-1,065
  • Infection: A Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2018, pages 253–257
  • Phytotherapy Research, August 2014, pages 1,125-1,136
  • Microbiological Research, April 2014, pages 240-254
  • Current Research Journal of Biological Sciences, March 2012, pages 176-185

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.