Lemon Myrtle Oil

What is Lemon Myrtle Oil?

Lemon Myrtle Oil, derived from steam distillation of the leaves of Backhousia citriodora, a native Australian evergreen tree, is a pale yellow essential oil rich in citral—a natural compound composed mainly of geranial and neral isomers. This gives it a strong, fresh lemon-like aroma characteristic of the myrtle family. In cosmetics, it primarily serves in rinse-off and leave-on products like cleansers, shampoos, lotions, and oral care items. Functionally, it imparts a clean citrus profile to formulations, effectively covering base odors while enhancing sensory appeal. Its volatile nature allows even diffusion in emulsions and anhydrous systems, and due to inherent antimicrobial properties from citral, it supports fragrance stability. Commonly diluted to trace levels to align with regulatory scent limits.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Flavoring agent

Adds or adjusts taste and aroma in oral care and lip products, improving user acceptance while complementing the overall sensory profile.

Fragrance ingredient

Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).

Pesticide

Intended to control pests; its use is regulated and typically falls outside standard cosmetics, appearing mainly in specialty treatment products where permitted.

Masking

Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Benefits

Delivers a bright, natural lemon scent that elevates product sensory experience.

Helps mask off-notes from other ingredients for a cleaner aroma profile.

Supports flavor enhancement in oral and lip care products.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Individuals preferring plant-derived fragrances in daily skincare routines.	People with known sensitivity to citral or citrus fragrances.
Users of natural or botanical-focused personal care items.	Individuals prone to fragrance allergies or contact dermatitis.
Those seeking subtle citrus notes without synthetic perfumes.	Those using undiluted essential oils on skin.

Safety Notes

Regarded as low hazard in typical cosmetic concentrations per safety assessments.
Citral content flags it as a potential skin sensitizer; patch testing advised.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lemon Myrtle Oil

What gives Lemon Myrtle Oil its scent?

High citral content, a natural aldehyde blend, provides its signature lemony aroma.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Typically low risk when diluted, but those with fragrance sensitivities should test first.

What products commonly feature it?

Fragranced cleansers, lotions, shampoos, and oral care for scent and masking.