Peppermint Oil

If you're anything like us, you probably think of peppermint as an ingredient more appropriate for mouthwash or gum than your skincare routine. But peppermint oil can have some pretty specific and targeted effects on your skin. The only caveat? It's important to know exactly how to use it in order to reap those benefits. Here, Gretchen Frieling, MD, and Amanda Doyle, MD, weigh in on the pros of peppermint oil, as well as how to avoid the potential pitfalls.

PEPPERMINT OIL

TYPE OF INGREDIENT: Antibacterial

MAIN BENEFITS: Delivers soothing and cooling properties that can be helpful for minor skin irritations; controls the secretion of oil.

WHO SHOULD USE IT: Those with oily or acne-prone skin, though it shouldn't be the only ingredient relied on to address acne, notes Frieling. Anyone with minor skin irritations and itching may also find it beneficial.

HOW OFTEN CAN YOU USE IT: Generally speaking, once per day, though be cautious as overuse can lead to irritation.

WORKS WELL WITH: Combined and diluted with hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera and coconut oil that can be beneficial for dry and irritated skin.

DON'T USE WITH: Be cautious when pairing with products that contain acids or other harsh exfoliating ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.

What is Peppermint Oil?

Peppermint oil is an essential oil derived from the peppermint plant, which is actually a hybrid between watermint and spearmint (technically called mentha piperita). What sets it apart from the many other essential oils out there is its very distinct aroma, as well as its wide variety of uses involving the health, culinary, and cosmetic industries, notes Frieling.

Benefits of Peppermint Oil for Skin

In terms of cosmetic uses and benefits, peppermint oil has several unique attributes that set it apart from other essential oils on the market.

  • Has antibacterial properties: While it's not effective against all strains of bacteria, one study compared peppermint oil to an antibiotic and found it to have comparable efficacy. Although it's not entirely clear exactly how much oil is needed topically to achieve these benefits, the oil's antibacterial nature makes it a good option for acne-prone skin, says Frieling.

  • Controls oil production: "Peppermint works to prevent excess oil from forming on your surface, which, as a result, lowers the chance of acne," says Frieling. While too strong and irritating to be applied directly onto your entire face, peppermint oil is most effective in tandem with other acne-fighters, she says. As such, peppermint oil might be beneficial for use on the scalp in addressing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis issues.

  • Minimizes itching and inflammation: Peppermint oil is a powerful skin soother; it can be an effective topical treatment for patients combating chronic itch: "Topical peppermint oil has been used to relieve itch, irritation, and inflammation," says Doyle. The high concentration of menthol, up to 50 percent, is responsible for peppermint oil's cooling properties—it's the reason why minty products tend to both smell and feel refreshing. Along with working directly on the skin, menthol can also relieve pain. As such, topical peppermint oil can help with headaches and provide relief to achy muscles.

  • Has antiviral properties: In addition to fighting bacteria, peppermint oil can also be effective against viruses, specifically the herpes virus, says Doyle. So the next time a cold sore pops up, you can try dabbing a little bit of peppermint oil onto it—just make sure it's diluted (more on that to come).

Side Effects of Peppermint Oil

While peppermint oil has skin-soothing properties, too much of it can (ironically) lead to irritation—redness, rashes, itching, and more. It's also possible to have a peppermint oil allergy, notes Frieling. As with any new type of ingredient or product, it's always a good idea to do a small test patch (on a spot other than your face) to make sure your skin can tolerate it. It's also worth pointing out that excessive use can trigger these types of unpleasant irritations, cautions Doyle, so be sure you're using it properly.

How to Use It

First and foremost, peppermint oil should never go onto skin that's cut, broken, or otherwise compromised, says Doyle. Second, if you're using pure peppermint essential oil—and not a product that contains it—you'll need to dilute it first. That could mean mixing it with a carrier oil—a neutral oil such as olive or jojoba—to dab onto any skin issues like a bug bite or sunburn. Add a drop or two into your shampoo to help soothe an itchy, oily scalp. And for an at-home spot treatment, mix a few drops with one tablespoon of tamanu oil and dab it onto pimples. 

Either way, use it no more than once a day to try to minimize the likelihood of any unwanted irritation.



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