Myrtus Communis Extract

Myrtus communis (myrtle) extract is a botanical antioxidant/astringent used at low concentrations, but it contains aromatic compounds (e.g., terpenes/phenolics) that are documented triggers for irritant and occasional allergic contact dermatitis in reactive and eczematous skin. In real-world routines it can add cumulative irritation—especially when layered with acids, retinoids, or compromised barrier states—so I score it as moderate and patch-test advisable for sensitive populations. Safety Notes: In mass-market and prestige leave-on products (toners, emulsions, serums) Myrtus communis extract is frequently used as a supporting botanical at very low levels (often ~0.001–0.1%) for soothing/antioxidant or sebum-support positioning, especially when supplied as a concentrated extract standardized in a carrier. Higher-strength consumer-available products (botanical “active” serums/ampoules, acne/oily-skin concentrates, and some rinse-off masks/cleansers) can reach ~1–5% when the supplier material is a typical glycerin/propylene glycol/water extract or similar, with practical upper limits driven by odor/color, potential sensitization, and formula stability rather than explicit regulatory caps.