Mentha Piperita Extract/Peppermint Extract
What Mentha Piperita Extract/Peppermint Extract is & what it does
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Extract is a botanical extract obtained from the peppermint plant. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulas it is used mainly as a fragrance or refreshing agent, contributing a characteristic cooling, minty sensory note. It naturally contains menthol and other aromatic compounds, which can be a sensitivity concern for some people with reactive skin.
What does Peppermint Extract do in skincare?
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Extract is used mainly as a fragrance and refreshing agent, lending a cooling, minty sensory note to a formula. It naturally contains menthol and aromatic compounds that create the characteristic fresh feel. It is a sensory and scent ingredient rather than a UV filter or active treatment.
Is Peppermint Extract safe?
Peppermint Extract is widely used in cosmetics and is generally considered safe at the low levels used in formulas. Because it contains menthol and aromatic compounds, it can be irritating or sensitizing for some people, particularly those with reactive or sensitive skin. Patch testing is a reasonable precaution if you are prone to fragrance sensitivity.
Is Peppermint Extract natural or synthetic?
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Extract is a naturally derived ingredient obtained from the peppermint plant. As a plant extract it is typically suitable for vegan formulations, though the rest of the product should be checked. Its exact aromatic profile can vary with the source material and processing.
Sunscreens with Mentha Piperita Extract/Peppermint Extract
We rate 15 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily Uv Defense Aqua Gel Spf 50 Pa++++
94/100
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La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Repair SPF 50+
92/100
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Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily Uv Defense Spf 50 Pa+++
87/100
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Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 Pa++++
87/100
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Lancôme Uv Expert Milky Bright Spf 50 Pa ++++
83/100
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SkinCeuticals Brightening Uv Defense Spf 30
82/100
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Lancôme Uv Expert Aqua Gel Spf 50 Pa++++
82/100
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Lancôme Uv Expert Bb Complete Spf 50+ Pa++++
81/100
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Lancôme Uv Expert Tone Up Milk Spf 50+ Pa++++
79/100
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LANEIGE Light Sun Fluid Spf 50+ Pa+++
79/100