The Cool and Minty Benefits of Peppermint for Skin

A long-standing mainstay in the world of skincare thanks to both its cooling and invigorating properties, peppermint can do wonders for your skin. From hydrating on contact to providing intense relief from inflammation and irritations, this beloved herb might be just what you're looking for. 

Read on to learn more about peppermint for skin.

What is peppermint for skin?

Peppermint is an aromatic herb that belongs to the mint family, which also includes other herbs such as spearmint and catnip. It is believed to be a hybrid of two other types of mint: water mint and spearmint.

Peppermint is known for its strong and refreshing aroma, which comes from the essential oil contained within its leaves. This oil contains several compounds, including menthol and menthone, which give peppermint its characteristic flavor and scent. Peppermint oil is often used in aromatherapy, as well as in food and beverage products, personal care products, and traditional medicine.

Peppermint can work wonders for your skin, because this powerful plant contains menthol, which has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin.

Pros & Cons of using kelp for skin

Pros

• Peppermint has a cooling effect that can help to soothe skin irritation, reduce redness, and calm inflammation.
• Peppermint has antiseptic properties that can help to cleanse and purify the skin, removing dirt, oil, and bacteria.
• The antimicrobial properties of peppermint can help to control acne-causing bacteria, reducing breakouts and preventing new pimples from forming.
• Peppermint can help to unclog pores, reducing the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads.
• Peppermint oil is a natural humectant, which means it can help to hydrate and moisturize the skin, keeping it soft and supple.

Cons

• Peppermint can be irritating to the skin if used at full strength or in high concentrations.
• Some people may be more sensitive to peppermint than others, and may experience skin reactions such as redness, itching, or hives.
• Peppermint is a member of the mint family, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have known allergies to mint or other herbs, it is best to avoid using peppermint on your skin.
• It can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn or skin damage.

Ingredients specifications

Clean

Peppermint itself is generally considered to be a clean ingredient for skincare as it has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit the skin.

Vegan

Peppermint for skin is considered vegan and free of animal cruelty since it is a plant-based ingredient.

Pregnancy safe

Peppermint for skin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when used in small amounts.

Breastfeeding safe

Peppermint is generally considered safe for external use while breastfeeding when used in small amounts.

Active ingredient

Due to peppermint’s natural properties, it is used as a popular active ingredient in skincare products.

Comedogenic

Peppermint on face is generally considered to be non-comedogenic, meaning it does not clog pores. In fact, peppermint oil is often used in skincare products for its natural antibacterial and cleansing properties, which can help to reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin and prevent breakouts.

EWG (Environment Working Group) Score 

Peppermint extract for skin has a score of 4 on the EWG scale, which means that it has a low possibility of causing cancer, being toxic, besides can be used with very low restrictions but it an cause allergies and immunooxicity.

CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) Rating: A

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel determined that peppermint it is safe for use in cosmetic products when formulated to avoid irritation or sensitization at concentrations less than 1%.

PRECAUTIONS: Things to know before using peppermint for skin

When to use peppermint for skin?

Peppermint can be used for skin both in the morning and at night, depending on your personal preferences and skincare routine.

In the morning, peppermint can provide a refreshing and invigorating sensation that can help to wake up and energize the skin. It can also help to reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eyes, which can be especially beneficial in the morning.

At night, peppermint can help to soothe and calm the skin after a long day, making it a great addition to a nighttime skincare routine. It can also help to reduce redness and inflammation, which can be especially helpful if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin.

What skin type is peppermint good for?

Peppermint can be beneficial for a wide range of skin types due to its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

For oily or acne-prone skin, peppermint can help to regulate oil production, reduce inflammation, and prevent breakouts. It can also help to unclog pores and remove impurities from the skin.

For dry or sensitive skin, peppermint can provide soothing and cooling relief while also helping to hydrate and nourish the skin. It can help to reduce redness and irritation, as well as protect the skin barrier.

What you can’t mix peppermint for skincare with?

There are some ingredients that should not be mixed with peppermint for skincare. For example:

• Retinol: Peppermint could potentially increase the sensitivity of skin treated with retinol, which could lead to irritation or dryness.
• Salicylic acid: Similarly, peppermint could also increase the sensitivity of skin treated with salicylic acid, which could lead to irritation or dryness.

FAQ’s

Is peppermint good for your face?

Peppermint can be beneficial for your face in several ways. It has natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe and calm irritated skin. Additionally, peppermint can improve blood circulation, which can give your complexion a healthy, radiant glow. Peppermint oil may also be effective in fighting acne, as it helps to unclog pores and reduce the secretion of oil from the sebaceous glands.

Is peppermint good for acne prone skin?

Peppermint oil can be beneficial for acne-prone skin due to its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains menthol, which helps to reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne. Peppermint oil can also help to unclog pores and reduce the secretion of oil from the sebaceous glands, which can help to prevent future breakouts.

Can you put 100% peppermint oil on skin?

It is not recommended to apply 100% pure peppermint oil directly on the skin, as it can be quite potent and may cause skin irritation or even burns. Pure essential oils are highly concentrated and can be harmful if not properly diluted. It's always best to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, before applying them to the skin. The recommended dilution ratio for peppermint oil is generally 1-2 drops of essential oil per tablespoon of carrier oil.

What happens if you apply peppermint oil directly to skin?

Applying 100% pure peppermint oil directly to the skin can cause skin irritation, burning, or other adverse reactions. Pure essential oils are highly concentrated and can be harmful if not properly diluted with a carrier oil.

Tips & Tricks to include in your skincare routine

• Add a cleanser with peppermint to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin, leaving it feeling fresh and clean
• Use a toner with peppermint to help balancing the skin's pH levels, leaving it feeling fresh and revitalized.
• Incorporate to your skincare routine a serum with peppermint to to prevent breakouts and promote clearer skin.
• Add a sheet mask with peppermint to provide intensive hydration and nourishment to the skin.
• Apply a gel cream with peppermint to provide lightweight hydration to the skin without clogging pores or feeling heavy.
• Use a face mask with peppermint to deep-cleanse the pores, remove impurities, and promote clearer, more radiant skin.
• Add a foot mask with peppermint to provide deep hydration to dry or rough skin on the feet.
• Use a toothpaste with peppermint to freshen breath and reduce the risk of gum disease.