Ingredient glossary
Menthol
INCI: Menthol
More hype than results
Does Menthol clash with what you already use? Check it →Popular on labels, but the evidence for what it actually does is thin. More marketing than muscle.
What it does
- cooling
- counter irritant
moderate evidenceStudies on menthol show it activates cold-sensitive receptors and can modestly reduce itch in some contexts yet is also documented to provoke stinging and erythema in rosacea and sensitive skin panels.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- oily
- normal
Approach with care
- very sensitive
- rosacea
- eczema
- compromised barrier
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskModerate
Pregnancy: Check with your doctor before using during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
This, for every label you own
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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.