Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil)
MEN-thuh pip-er-EE-tuh
INCI: Mentha Piperita Oil
What Is Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil)?
Peppermint Oil is a stimulating essential oil extracted from the peppermint plant, a hybrid of watermint and spearmint. Its primary active component, menthol, provides a cooling, tingling sensation on the scalp that stimulates blood flow. A 2014 animal study showed peppermint oil promoted more hair growth than minoxidil, though human clinical trials are still needed.
Source: Peppermint plant (Mentha piperita) leaves
Origin: Natural
Also known as: Peppermint Oil, Peppermint Essential Oil, Menthol Oil
What Does Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil) Do to Your Hair?
Peppermint Oil causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) in the scalp, increasing blood flow and potentially improving nutrient delivery to hair follicles. Menthol provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits that help maintain a clean, healthy scalp. The cooling sensation also helps soothe itchiness and scalp irritation.
Best For
Thinning hair, oily scalp, itchy scalp, dandruff-prone scalp, low-density hair
Not Recommended For
Very sensitive scalp, infants and young children, open wounds on scalp
Concentration Matters
0.5-2%
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Must be diluted before use. Can cause chemical burns and irritation if used undiluted. Safe at 0.5-2% concentration for adults. Keep away from eyes. Not recommended for children under 6 due to menthol sensitivity. May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA classifies peppermint oil as GRAS for food use. No specific restrictions for cosmetic use. Used in FDA-approved OTC topical analgesics.
EWG Score: 3/10
HairAide Verdict
Peppermint Oil is a wonderful scalp-stimulating ingredient that makes your scalp feel invigorated while potentially supporting hair growth. HairAide loves it in scalp treatments and recommends the tingling sensation as a sign it is working to boost circulation. Always use it diluted and avoid contact with eyes.
Products That Contain Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil)
Scalp treatments, stimulating shampoos, scalp serums, hair growth products
Alternatives to Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil)
If you want to avoid Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil), look for products with these ingredients instead:
Rosemary Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Spearmint Oil
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil) has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Must be diluted before use. Can cause chemical burns and irritation if used undiluted. Safe at 0.5-2% concentration for adults. Keep away from eyes. Not recommended for children under 6 due to menthol sensitivity. May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil) is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil) is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Mentha Piperita Oil (Peppermint Oil) include: Rosemary Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Spearmint Oil
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