Ingredient dictionary

Menthol

Also listed as: Peppermint camphor

Menthol is a cooling compound found naturally in peppermint oil and also made in labs. Its main job is to add a fresh, cool feel. It is on the label of 37 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Menthol does

Creates a cooling, tingling sensation on skin
Adds a fresh, minty scent
Helps products feel refreshing and invigorating

Menthol is one of the main compounds in peppermint oil. It can be taken from mint plants or made in a lab, and both forms are used in cosmetics. It is a waxy solid that melts easily on skin.

Formulators use menthol for the cool feel it gives. It works on the same sensory nerve endings that respond to cold, so skin feels cool even though its temperature has not changed. It also adds a fresh scent, and it is used in small amounts to keep the feel pleasant.

Good for

Good for people who like a cool, refreshing feel in shampoos, body washes, foot care and moisturizers.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is menthol safe for skin?

For most people, menthol at the levels used in cosmetics is well tolerated. It can feel strong, though, and may sting on broken, irritated or very sensitive skin. If a product tingles more than you like, rinse it off and choose a gentler formula.

Is menthol the same as peppermint?

Not quite. Peppermint is a plant, and its oil contains menthol along with other compounds. Menthol is one of the main parts of that oil and can be separated out and used on its own.