Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract

Microcitrus Australasica (finger lime) fruit extract is typically used for antioxidant/brightening claims and may contribute mild exfoliating activity due to naturally occurring organic acids and other bioactives; exact acid content varies by source and standardization. Citrus-derived extracts have a meaningful history of stinging and irritation in compromised or eczematous skin, especially when layered with other actives, even at low inclusion levels. Given variability, potential low-pH/acid contribution, and higher reactivity risk in sensitive populations, I rate it as a notable irritant requiring careful introduction. Safety Notes: In mass-market leave-on serums, creams, and masks this extract is commonly used as a supporting botanical/antioxidant at trace-to-low levels (often ~0.001–0.1%), especially when supplied as a glycerin/propylene glycol/water-based extract and positioned as a secondary INCI. Higher-strength consumer products marketed around “finger lime/caviar lime” enzymatic/AHA-like exfoliation and brightening can reach ~1–5% of the commercial extract (with actual active fruit solids varying by supplier), while rinse-off cleansers typically sit toward the lower end due to short contact time and cost/stability constraints.