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denaturant masking refreshing soothing

Menthol

Characteristics

INCI
Menthol
CAS
1490-04-6, 2216-51-5, 89-78-1, 15356-70-4
EC
216-074-4, 218-690-9, 201-939-0, 239-388-3
IUPAC
Cyclohexanol, 5-Methyl-2-(1-Methylethyl)-
Functions
denaturant, masking, refreshing, soothing

Who it's for

Face Concern
▼ Acne ▼ Sensitive Skin ▼ Rosacea ▼ Eczema ▲ Soothing
Body Concern
▲ Sensitivity
Hair Concern
▼ Dandruff ▼ Flaky scalp ▼ Hair Loss ▼ Frizz ▼ Damage ▼ Split Ends ▼ Bleached Hair ▼ Color-Treated ▼ Hydration ▼ Scalp Health ▼ Sensetive Scalp ▲ Fine Hair
Application Area
▲ Face ▲ Body ▲ Hair ▲ Scalp ▲ Lips
Ingredient Flag
▲ Fragrance / Parfum ▲ Essential Oil
menthol / dl-menthol / l-menthol

Description

Menthol needs no introduction: it's the thing that causes thecooling sensation so well-known both from cosmetic products as well as a bunch of other things like chocolate, chewing gum, toothpaste or cigarette. It's a natural compound that comes from the essential oil of Mentha species (peppermint oil contains 40-50% menthol) and it gives them their typical minty smell and flavor.

As for skincare, menthol seems to be a mixed bag. Apart from the cool cooling sensation (that might last up to 70 mins!), it also has painkilling, itch reducing, antibacterial, antifungal and even penetration enhancing properties. On the other hand, it also seems to act as a skin irritant that increases trans-epidermal water loss (the water that evaporates from the outer layer of the skin) and thus contributes to drying out the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Menthol

What does menthol do in skincare products?
Menthol gives a cooling sensation on the skin by activating cold-sensitive receptors, which can make a product feel refreshing. It is often used in lotions, gels, aftershaves, and acne or muscle rubs for that tingly effect. It does not actually lower skin temperature, even though it feels that way.
Is menthol good for irritated or itchy skin?
Menthol can temporarily distract from itch or mild discomfort because of its cooling, sensory effect. That said, it can also sting or irritate sensitive, broken, or overexposed skin, especially at higher concentrations. People with very reactive skin should be cautious with menthol-containing products.
Can menthol help with a stuffy nose or a cold?
Menthol can make breathing feel easier by creating a cooling sensation in the nose and airways, but it does not clear congestion or treat the underlying cold. Products like rubs, inhalers, or lozenges may provide subjective relief, especially for adults. It should not be relied on as a medical treatment for nasal blockage or infection.
Is menthol safe to use on the skin?
Menthol is generally safe in cosmetic products when used at appropriate levels, but it can cause irritation, redness, or a burning feeling in some people. The risk is higher on damaged skin, near the eyes, or when used too often. If a product causes strong discomfort, it should be washed off and avoided in the future.
Why do some people choose menthol in hair or scalp products?
Menthol is added to some hair and scalp products because it creates a fresh, cooling sensation that can make the scalp feel cleaner or less itchy. This feeling does not mean it stimulates hair growth, and evidence for that claim is limited. In sensitive scalps, it can sometimes cause dryness or irritation instead of comfort.

Evidence & Research on Menthol

Scientific publications & sources 2
  • 1
    Phytochemistry 96 (2013) 15–25, Menthol: A simple monoterpene with remarkable biological properties
  • 2
    Archives for Dermatological Research 288(5-6):245-8 · May 199, Effect of topically applied menthol on thermal, pain and itch sensations and biophysical properties of the skin

Products with Menthol (3 448 total)

Hair
Shampoos 601 Hair Growth & Loss Prevention 191 Conditioners & Masks 150 Scalp Scrubs 147 Leave-in Care 56 Styling 26 Hair Coloring 2
Face Care
Cleansing 295 Lip Balms & Scrubs 131 Moisturizers 115 Exfoliants & Peels 115 Masks 112 Serums & Essences 107 Toning 87 Eye Care 15 Face Sunscreen 14
Body Care
Body Moisturizers 105 Shower Gels & Bath Foams 72 Anti-cellulite & Stretch Marks 38 Body Sunscreen & Self-tan 30 Deodorants & Antiperspirants 25 Body Scrubs 17 Hair Removal 11 Intimate Hygiene 6 Body Oils 5
Decorative Cosmetics
Lips 72 Base & Foundation 24 Powders, Highlighters & Blush 9 Eyes 1
Hands & Nails
Hand Creams 3
Feet
Foot Creams 25 Foot Peels & Scrubs 12 Callus & Corn Treatments 10 Foot Deodorants 2

Most often found in Garnier products (37 items)

Life Dryfix
Life Life Dryfix
LIFE
Life Dryfix
needs Sabonete Esfoliante Antiacne
needs needs Sabonete Esfoliante Antiacne
NEEDS
needs Sabonete Esfoliante Antiacne
Verb Dandruff Shampoo With Salicylic Acid
Verb Verb Dandruff Shampoo With Salicylic Acid
VERB
Verb Dandruff Shampoo With Salicylic Acid
MAC Lipglass Blow Plumping Oil
MAC MAC Lipglass Blow Plumping Oil
MAC
MAC Lipglass Blow Plumping Oil
MAC Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick
MAC MAC Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick
MAC
MAC Squirt Plumping Gloss Stick
Wild Calm (Lavender & Geranium) Deodorant
Wild Wild Calm (Lavender & Geranium) Deodorant
WILD
Wild Calm (Lavender & Geranium) Deodorant
IMAGES Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizing Spray
IMAGES
→
Boots Acne Expert Clear Potion
Boots
→
Fresh Sugar Mint Rush Freshening Lip Treatment
Fresh
→
Forever Aloe Heat Lotion
Forever
→
Origins Clear Improvement Oil-free Moisturizer with Bamboo Charcoal
Origins
→
Origins Ginzing™ Into The Glow Brightening Serum
Origins
→
All 3 448 products →
Synonyms
(W/W) Menthol (1.0%) **Menthol *Menthol (Menthol Crystals) *Menthol (Organic Menthol Crystals) Dl-Menthol L- Menthol L-Menthol L-Menthol (Organic Compound) L-Menthol * L-Menthol* Mentha Arvensis Mentha Arvensis (Cornmint) Mentha Arvensis (Japanese Peppermint) Mentha Arvensis (Menthol Crystals) Mentha Arvensis (Menthol)