Common Name(s): Menthyl nicotinate,menthyl nicotinate,ester of menthol and niacin,warming circulation niacinamide precursor
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides trpv1-mediated warming sensation combined with nicotinic acid-induced skin flushing (vasodilation) for enhanced local microcirculation โ the dual warming mechanism providing more pronounced and sustained warming than either component alone.
Why It's Used: Menthyl nicotinate's dual trpv1/vasodilation warming mechanism provides superior circulation stimulation to single-mechanism warming agents โ the menthol-initiated trpv1 sensory warming amplified by the nicotinate-mediated vascular flushing response.
How It Works: Menthyl nicotinate is hydrolysed in skin by esterases releasing both menthol (trpv1 agonist โ warming sensation) and nicotinic acid (prostaglandin-mediated capillary vasodilation โ visible flushing). the ester form provides sustained release versus direct application of either component โ hydrolysis rate determining warming onset and duration.
Typically Found In: Warming massage,anti-cellulite,circulation products
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient โ antioxidant
Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.01%โ0.5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Menthyl nicotinate warming is a classic ingredient in heat rubs and anti-cellulite products โ the nicotinic acid flush provides genuine visible skin redness (erythema) confirming vasodilation, providing the consumer-visible efficacy signal supporting circulation-improvement claims.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,menthyl nicotinate warming circulation anti-cellulite review