What it is
Mentha piperita oil is the essential oil distilled from the peppermint plant, valued for its characteristic minty, cooling aroma. In cosmetics it is used mainly as a fragrance and to give a fresh, cooling sensory impression. Because it is a potent volatile oil, it is typically incorporated at very low levels.
Safety & warnings
Peppermint oil contains naturally occurring constituents such as menthol and limonene; limonene is a recognized fragrance allergen, and the oil as a whole can be irritating or sensitizing for some people, particularly on sensitive or compromised skin and near the eyes. Patch testing is advisable for those prone to fragrance reactions.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; steam-distilled from the leaves and flowering tops of peppermint (Mentha x piperita).
Questions everyone asks
Why is peppermint oil in sunscreen?
It is used at low levels as a fragrance to give a fresh, minty, cooling scent and sensory impression.
Can peppermint oil irritate skin?
It can. It contains menthol and the allergen limonene and may irritate or sensitize sensitive skin, so patch testing is wise.