Melissa Officinalis Extract
A lemon balm plant extract. It soothes and supports the skin's antioxidant defense. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A soothing plant extract. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Melissa Officinalis Extract is the plant extract of lemon balm. It provides phenolic acids such as rosmarinic acid and essential oils, a make-up with soothing and antioxidant capacity. In cosmetics it is used to comfort the skin and add defence against oxidative stress. As an active it is supporting. It has a reasonable basis as a soothing and secondary antioxidant ingredient, but its effect in cosmetic formulas is mild and specific clinical data are limited. It fits well as a complement in products for reactive skin rather than as the lead active of a routine. For topical use it is not meaningfully absorbed, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without restriction. Tolerance is good: irritation and allergy potential are low, with no comedogenicity rating. It suits sensitive skin. As an aromatic botanical extract it can carry traces of essential-oil components, so on very reactive skin it is worth watching the response, although reactions are uncommon.
Frequently asked questions
Is Melissa Officinalis Extract safe during pregnancy?
Melissa Officinalis Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Melissa Officinalis Extract for?
Melissa Officinalis Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Melissa Officinalis Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
A lemon balm plant extract.
What's the INCI name for Melissa Officinalis Extract?
The INCI name is Melissa Officinalis Extract. It may also appear as: Meliofficinalis Extract, Lemon Balm Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract.
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