Melissa Officinalis (lemon balm) extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in polyphenols and rosmarinic acid, used in skincare for its antioxidant, soothing, and antimicrobial properties. It is also studied for antiviral activity, particularly against herpes simplex virus in topical applications.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild skin irritation or stinging | Uncommon | May occur on sensitive or compromised skin, sometimes due to accompanying essential oil components. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Reported in individuals sensitized to Lamiaceae (mint family) plants. |
| Phototoxic or photosensitivity reaction | Very rare | Limited reports; generally considered low risk for the extract form. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.