
Menthol
INCI Name: Menthol
Source: Derived from Peppermint (Mentha Ă— piperita)
EWG Score: 1 High safety  (1-2: High safety 3-6: Moderate safety 7-10: Low safety)
Function: Cooling, itch relief, sebum regulation, scalp stimulation
Found In:
• Matcha & Peppermint Refresh Shampoo Bar
đź§ What Is Menthol?
Menthol is a naturally occurring compound extracted from the essential oil of mint plants, especially peppermint. It’s what gives mint its characteristic cool sensation — and beyond that refreshing tingle, menthol provides powerful therapeutic benefits for the scalp.
At Originature, we use naturally derived menthol, never synthetic, to gently invigorate the scalp, regulate excess oil, and deliver relief from common scalp issues like itchiness, buildup, and irritation — all without harsh ingredients.
đź’§ Hair & Scalp Benefits of Menthol
- Cools and Calms Itchy Scalp
Menthol activates cold-sensitive receptors on the skin, offering fast, natural relief from itchiness, dryness, and inflammation.
- Regulates Oil Production
Its astringent-like qualities help balance sebum levels on oily scalps without stripping essential moisture — perfect for combination or greasy hair types.
- Boosts Scalp Circulation
The tingling sensation isn't just refreshing — it helps increase blood flow to the scalp, which can stimulate follicles and encourage healthy growth.
- Decongests Pores and Reduces Buildup
Menthol helps gently unclog hair follicles and reduces the presence of buildup, contributing to a cleaner, more breathable scalp environment.
- Enhances Absorption of Other Botanicals
Menthol’s permeation-enhancing properties allow better penetration of other plant-based nutrients into the skin and scalp.
🔬 The Science Behind It
Menthol interacts with the TRPM8 receptor, a cold-sensing nerve ending on the skin. This triggers a cooling effect without lowering temperature, making it ideal for calming itchy, inflamed, or overheated scalps.
Studies published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment confirm that menthol provides significant relief from scalp pruritus (itching) and helps reduce sebaceous activity, making it a key natural alternative to medicated scalp treatments — minus the harsh side effects.
đź§´ Where You'll Find It in Originature
- Matcha & Peppermint Refresh Shampoo Bar
→ Ideal for oily, itchy, or congested scalps, this shampoo bar blends organic matcha and menthol for a detoxifying, long-lasting clean and cool.