
THE STORY OF MENTHOL
Menthol: The Cooling, Refreshing Active for Instant Sensory Relief
Menthol is a natural cooling compound known for its instantly refreshing sensation.
Extracted from peppermint oil or produced synthetically, it provides a cooling, soothing, decongesting, and invigorating effect on skin and scalp.
Commonly used in balms, gels, shampoos, deodorants, foot-care products, and therapeutic creams.
Derived from Peppermint Oil Through Crystallization & Purification
Menthol is primarily obtained from Mentha arvensis (peppermint).
The process includes:
• Steam distillation of peppermint leaves
• Cooling to crystallize menthol
• Filtration & purification
• Drying & grading
High-purity menthol crystals (L-menthol) are ideal for pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations.
TRCkem offers cosmetic-, food- and pharma-grade Menthol Crystals.
Cool. Soothe. Refresh.
Menthol delivers multiple sensory and functional benefits:
✅ Provides instant cooling sensation
✅ Soothes irritated, tired or inflamed skin
✅ Helps reduce itching & discomfort
✅ Adds a fresh minty aroma
✓ Improves scalp stimulation and freshness
Used in: cooling gels, balms, foot creams, aftershave products, shampoos, deodorants, pain-relief sprays, and oral-care formulations.
Potent Sensory Active — Use in Controlled, Well-Balanced Formulations
• Typical use level:
– 0.1–0.5% in skincare
– 1–5% in balms & cooling gels
– 0.1–2% in shampoos & deodorants
• Must be melted gently (40–45°C) before mixing
• Strong cooling → use carefully in face products
• Avoid contact with eyes & broken skin
• Store in a cool, dry, airtight container
• Compatible with essential oils, alcohols, emulsifiers & gels
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Menthol?
Menthol is an organic compound known for its cooling and refreshing properties. It is widely used in personal care and cosmetic formulations due to its soothing effects on the skin and scalp.
2. What is the CAS Number and INCI Name of Menthol?
CAS Number: 2216-51-5 (L-Menthol)
INCI Name: Menthol
3. How is Menthol Used in Personal Care Products?
Menthol is commonly found in skincare, haircare, oral care, and body care products. It is used in formulations such as creams, lotions, shampoos, lip balms, toothpaste, and shaving products for its cooling, soothing, and anti-irritant properties.
4. How does Menthol work in cosmetic formulations?
Menthol interacts with temperature-sensitive nerve receptors in the skin, creating a cooling effect. It also has mild numbing properties, making it useful in pain-relief formulations.
5. Is Menthol suitable for all skin types?
Menthol is generally safe for most skin types, but individuals with highly sensitive or reactive skin should use it in lower concentrations to avoid irritation.
6. What types of personal care products contain Menthol?
Menthol is commonly found in:
Lip balms & lip plumpers
Shampoos & scalp treatments
Muscle-relief creams & gels
Cooling body lotions & after-sun gels
Toothpaste & mouthwashes
Decongestant balms & inhalers
7. Can Menthol be combined with other ingredients?
Yes, Menthol works well with:
Aloe vera & chamomile for enhanced soothing effects.
Essential oils (eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree) for a stronger cooling effect.
Salicylic acid & anti-acne ingredients for refreshing skincare formulations.
8. Does Menthol cause any side effects?
Menthol is safe in recommended concentrations, but excessive use may lead to:
Skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Temporary redness or tingling sensation.
Eye irritation if applied near the eyes.
9. What is the recommended concentration of Menthol in personal care formulations?
0.1% to 1% in lip balms and skincare products.
1% to 5% in cooling lotions and muscle-relief gels.
Up to 10% in decongestant balms and mentholated rubs.
10. Is Menthol natural or synthetic?
Menthol can be naturally extracted from peppermint and other mint oils, or it can be synthetically produced to maintain high purity and consistency in cosmetic formulations.
11. Where can I purchase high-quality Menthol for formulation purposes?
Menthol is available from cosmetic raw material suppliers, pharmaceutical distributors, and specialty chemical manufacturers. Ensure you choose cosmetic or pharmaceutical-grade Menthol for safe use.