Lemon Myrtle
Also known as: Backhousia Citriodora, Native Lemon, Sweet Verbena Tree
Last updated: March 2026
What is Lemon Myrtle?
Lemon Myrtle is a rainforest tree native to subtropical Queensland that produces leaves with the highest recorded natural concentration of citral of any plant on earth. Citral is the compound responsible for its intensely fresh, clean lemon scent, but the leaves contain far more than fragrance. Aboriginal Australians have used Lemon Myrtle as a bush food and medicinal plant for generations. In contemporary skincare it is valued for its antimicrobial potency and its ability to calm and brighten skin without the irritation associated with citrus-based ingredients. In The Aussie Man Intensive Eye Cream, Lemon Myrtle Extract is the first listed ingredient, making it the base of the formula. This is significant for an eye cream because the skin around the eye is the thinnest on the face, around 0.5mm compared to 2mm on the cheeks, and it requires ingredients that are both effective and genuinely gentle. Lemon Myrtle delivers both.
Key Benefits
Antimicrobial protection: Lemon Myrtle has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacteria and fungi in laboratory studies, with a potency that exceeds many synthetic preservatives. In an eye cream this matters because the eye area is prone to contamination from daily contact. The natural antimicrobial action keeps the formula stable and helps maintain the health of the delicate skin it is applied to.
Brightening without irritation: The citral compounds in Lemon Myrtle have a mild brightening effect on skin tone, reducing the appearance of dullness and uneven pigmentation around the eye area. Unlike synthetic brightening agents, they do not cause the sensitivity or stinging that men with reactive skin often experience around the eyes.
Calming inflammation: Lemon Myrtle Extract has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce puffiness and visible redness. For men dealing with dark circles caused by poor circulation or fluid retention, the calming action reduces the underlying inflammation that makes the area look worse.
Antioxidant defence: The high citral and phenolic compound content gives Lemon Myrtle strong antioxidant properties that protect the thin eye area skin from UV and environmental damage, both of which accelerate the fine lines and crepiness that develop around the eyes faster than anywhere else on the face.
Scientific Evidence
The antimicrobial properties of Lemon Myrtle are well established in scientific literature. A study published in Letters in Applied Microbiology tested Backhousia Citriodora extract against a range of pathogenic bacteria and fungi, finding it more effective than tea tree oil as an antimicrobial agent at equivalent concentrations, with a superior safety profile for topical use. Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry characterised the phenolic compounds in Lemon Myrtle and confirmed strong antioxidant activity, attributing it primarily to the high citral content alongside flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives that work synergistically. A study examining the skin tolerability of Lemon Myrtle Extract at cosmetic use concentrations confirmed no significant sensitisation in repeat insult patch testing across 50 subjects, supporting its classification as suitable for use on sensitive and thin-skinned areas such as the eye contour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ingredient Category
Lemon Myrtle is classified as a native australian ingredient ingredient in skincare formulation.
🌿 Naturally derived
Products Containing Lemon Myrtle
Intensive Eye Cream
A targeted eye treatment with Lemon Myrtle, Seabuckthorn, Cucumber Oil, and Native Lemon Aspen. Addresses puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
$39.00
Breakout Treatment
A targeted breakout treatment with Tea Tree Oil, White Willow Bark, and Lemon Myrtle. Tackles bacteria, clears pores, and calms inflammation without harsh chemicals.
$29.00
The Aussie Man focuses on simple, effective skincare designed specifically for men. Each product is formulated to deliver real results without unnecessary complexity, making it easier to maintain a consistent routine that improves skin over time.