i-Menthol
Menthol that gives a cooling feel and scent. Some people may develop contact allergy and irritation on sensitive skin.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
i-Menthol (INCI i-Menthol) is an optical isomer of menthol, a natural component of mint. In a formula it gives a pronounced cooling sensation and a minty scent, which is why it is added to aftershaves, toners and body products for a feeling of freshness. On efficacy I will be direct: this is a sensory and aromatic ingredient, not a skincare active. The chill it creates comes from stimulating cold receptors, not from real cooling or treating the skin. The effect is decorative and sensory; it has no direct impact on skin condition. During pregnancy and breastfeeding menthol in a finished product can be used, as it has no systemic significance when applied topically. Just keep the sharp smell in mind if it is unpleasant. With tolerance it is worth being more careful. The irritation potential itself is low, but the allergy risk is medium: menthol is a known contact allergen, and in some people it causes a reaction and stinging on sensitive skin. If the skin is reactive or there is rosacea, products with menthol are better avoided or tested in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Is i-Menthol safe during pregnancy?
i-Menthol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is i-Menthol for?
i-Menthol suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is i-Menthol and what does it do in cosmetics?
Menthol that gives a cooling feel and scent.
What's the INCI name for i-Menthol?
The INCI name is i-Menthol. It may also appear as: l-Menthol.
See i-Menthol in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Illicium Verum (Anise) Fruit Extract, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Iron Oxides, Isobutane, Pentaerythrityl Distearate, Sodium Carrageenan, Zea Mays Starch, Red 27 (CI 45410)
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