Ingredient decoder

Peppermint oil: is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil

Acne verdict Watch

Worth watching on acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Cooling mint oil that can sting or irritate sensitive skin.

  • Masking
  • Perfuming
  • Refreshing
  • Tonic

Peppermint oil in plain English

Peppermint oil is an essential oil from peppermint leaves that gives a cooling, tingling feel thanks to its high menthol content. Like most essential oils it contains natural fragrance allergens, which can irritate or sensitize skin over time. That tingle is a sign of mild irritation, which is the last thing inflamed, acne-prone skin needs in a leave-on product.

Is peppermint oil bad for acne?

Not usually, but it is worth watching. Peppermint oil is not a proven pore-clogger, but scent ingredients like this can irritate sensitive skin, and irritated skin can make breakouts look and feel worse. Notice how your skin reacts when a product lists it near the top.

Clean routine and still breaking out? The cause may be internal. See what is driving it

Also called

  • Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil
  • Peppermint essential oil
  • Mentha piperita oil
  • Mentha piperita leaf oil

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Frequently asked questions

Is peppermint oil comedogenic?

Peppermint oil has no published comedogenic rating in Fulton's 1989 table. It is not a proven pore-clogger, but it is worth watching on acne-prone skin.

What does peppermint oil do in skincare?

In short: cooling mint oil that can sting or irritate sensitive skin. In formulas it is used for masking, perfuming, refreshing and tonic.

What else is peppermint oil called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, peppermint oil can also appear as Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Peppermint essential oil, Mentha piperita oil or Mentha piperita leaf oil.

Sources