Peppermint oil is one of those ingredients everyone seems to be talking about. It smells amazing, it feels cool and tingly on the scalp, and you've probably seen it all over social media as a hair growth hack.
I love it as part of a scalp routine. But I also want to be honest with you about what the research actually shows, because it's a lot less than the internet makes it sound. Here's what peppermint oil is, what we know so far, and how to use it without irritating your scalp.
Index
Understanding Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil comes from the peppermint plant, and it's very concentrated. One sniff and you know exactly what it is.
That cooling feeling, the fresh smell and the taste all come from menthol, one of its main components. It shows up in everything from beauty products to cleaning sprays.
Peppermint Oil For Hair: What We Know
Hair Growth: Early Research
Most of the excitement comes from a 2014 study in mice. In it, a 3% peppermint oil solution was linked to more hair growth than the other groups, including minoxidil.
That's interesting, but it was done in mice. Research in people is still limited, so I wouldn't treat peppermint oil as a hair growth treatment.
That Tingly Feeling
The tingle you feel is the menthol, which creates a cooling sensation on your skin. A lot of people find it really refreshing, and it's lovely in a scalp massage.
Scalp Comfort
That cooling feel can make your scalp feel fresh. If you're dealing with an itchy, dry scalp, flaking or irritation, though, I'd see a dermatologist first. Essential oils can irritate sensitive skin, and a healthy scalp starts with knowing what's actually going on.
How To Use Peppermint Oil For Hair
1. Mix It With A Carrier Oil
Peppermint oil is strong. Never put it on your scalp straight. Mix a few drops into a carrier oil like jojoba, argan or coconut oil first.
Massage it into your scalp, leave it for 15 to 20 minutes, then wash it out with a mild shampoo. Some people like to add a drop or two of rosemary oil too. Just remember rosemary is also an essential oil, so it needs to be diluted the same way.
2. Add A Drop To Your Shampoo Or Conditioner
This is the easiest way to try it. A drop of peppermint oil in your shampoo or conditioner gives you that fresh, tingly feel while you wash.
Start small. Too much can burn or irritate, so use a tiny amount, see how your scalp feels, and adjust from there.
3. What About Supplements?
Goldie Locks® Hair Supplements include peppermint powder as part of an essential oil blend, along with biotin, collagen and vitamins. One thing to keep in mind: the research above looked at peppermint oil on the skin, not taken as a supplement.
Our customers love making our supplements part of their daily routine. The serving is four capsules a day, with or without food.
A Few Things To Remember
- Keep it away from your eyes.
- Don't swallow peppermint essential oil. It can cause nausea, heartburn and stomach pain.
- Always do a patch test before putting it on your scalp.
Precautions & Potential Side Effects
Like any essential oil, peppermint oil needs to be used carefully.
Possible Side Effects Of Peppermint Oil For Hair
Can it damage your hair? Used correctly and diluted, most people tolerate it well. Straight on the scalp is a different story:
- Skin irritation: Undiluted or overused, it can cause itching or burning. Always dilute, and start small.
- Allergic reactions: Some people are allergic to peppermint oil and get a rash or hives. That's what the patch test is for.
- Eye irritation: If it gets in your eyes, it really hurts. Be careful around your hairline and face.
How To Stay Safe
- Patch test: Put a little diluted oil on your inner arm. If there's no redness, itching or discomfort after 24 hours, you're probably fine to use it on your scalp.
- Always dilute: Never use pure peppermint oil on your skin or scalp. Mix it with jojoba, argan or coconut oil.
- Protect your eyes: If it gets in your eyes, rinse right away with cool water.
And if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or have a skin condition, check with your doctor before using essential oils.
FAQs About Peppermint Oil For Hair Care
Can peppermint oil help with dandruff?
It can make an itchy scalp feel better for a bit, but it's not a dandruff treatment. For dandruff, a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo is usually the first step, and a dermatologist can help if it doesn't improve. More on dryness and dandruff here.
Can peppermint oil damage your hair?
Diluted and used correctly, most people do fine with it. Undiluted, it can cause itching, burning, headaches or sensitivity. Mix it with a carrier oil, or use products that are already formulated with the right amount.
Can I mix peppermint oil with water for hair?
Not really. Oil and water don't mix, so it won't spread evenly. Add a few drops to a carrier oil or your shampoo instead.
How long does peppermint oil take to work for hair?
There isn't enough research in people to give you a timeline. Hair grows slowly, so if you add it to your routine, be patient and consistent.
What happens if you put peppermint oil directly on the scalp?
You'll feel a strong tingling, cooling sensation from the menthol. And because it's so concentrated, it can irritate your skin. Always dilute it first.
Is rosemary or peppermint oil better for hair growth?
Rosemary oil has one small study in people, comparing it to minoxidil. The research on peppermint so far is mostly in animals. Both are popular, and both need to be diluted.
Can peppermint oil help with hair loss?
There's not enough evidence in people to say. One study in mice was promising, but that's a long way from proof. If you're dealing with hair loss, start with a dermatologist.
Final Thoughts
I think peppermint oil is a lovely addition to a scalp routine. It smells great, it feels refreshing, and the early research is interesting. It's just not a hair growth treatment, at least not yet.
Dilute it, patch test first, and enjoy it for what it is. If you'd also like a hair supplement, our customers love making Goldie Locks® Hair Supplements part of their daily routine. And if you're losing more hair than usual, a dermatologist is the place to start.