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Common Name(s): L-menthol,peppermint camphor,(-)-menthol

CAS Number: 89-78-1

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Activates trpm8 cold thermoreceptors for intense cooling sensation and analgesic activity.

Why It's Used: The most potent cosmetic cooling agent โ€“ direct trpm8 agonist providing cooling sensation without actual temperature reduction for refreshing and analgesic formulations.

How It Works: Potent trpm8 (menthol receptor/cold thermosensor) agonist โ€“ activation at room temperature mimics cold sensation without actual cooling. anti-pruritic via trpm8 activation competing with itch c-fiber signaling. antimicrobial via membrane disruption.

Typically Found In: Cooling products,scalp treatments,oral care,pain relief,foot care,after-sun

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient โ€“ cooling sensory terpenoid

Secondary Functions: Redness reduction,anti-inflammatory,calming

Application Areas:

Facial Skincare

Body Care

Hair Care

Beard Care

Color Cosmetics (Makeup)

Dietary/Oral Supplements

Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%โ€“2%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required

Halal Status: Unverified - supplier confirmation required

Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: status downgraded on audit. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 2/5 โ€“ low to moderate; potential sensitizer

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ€“ non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; ideal for reactive and sensitive skin.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Avoid near eyes. use with caution at concentrations above 1% for sensitive skin.

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Eu max 4.5% (leave-on); regulations vary by application site. avoid on infants' face.

Works Well With: Ceramides,panthenol,allantoin,hyaluronic acid,centella asiatica

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Menthol's exceptional cooling potency stems from its ec50 for trpm8 activation of approximately 10ฮผm (vs camphor's ec50 of ~5mm โ€“ 500ร— lower potency). this 500ร— potency advantage explains why even tiny concentrations of menthol provide intense cooling, while much higher concentrations of camphor are required for equivalent sensation.

Last Verified: 2026-03-12

Primary Sources: Cosing database,mckemy et al. menthol trpm8 discovery,cir safety assessment