Menthol has gained popularity in the cosmetics industry for its ability to provide a cooling and soothing sensation on the skin. This organic compound, extracted primarily from plants such as mint and eucalyptus, has been used for centuries in both traditional medicine and personal care products. Today, menthol is a key ingredient in a wide range of cosmetic products due to its properties. Its impact extends beyond cosmetics, being an essential element in the food industry. In this blog, we will explore the benefits and limitations of menthol for skin care and its use in cosmetic and food products. At Chem Fluid we have incorporated this raw material into our portfolio to meet those market needs.

Benefits of Menthol on the Skin
Menthol is known for its ability to generate a cooling sensation when applied to the skin. This property makes it an essential ingredient in products such as creams, lotions, gels, and balms designed to provide relief to tired, irritated, or heat-exposed skin. Upon contact with the skin, menthol activates cold receptors, resulting in a cooling sensation that can last up to 70 minutes, according to some studies.

In addition to its cooling effect, menthol has soothing properties that help relieve skin discomfort. It is often used in after-sun products, post-workout gels, and lotions for tired legs. Its ability to improve blood circulation in the skin also makes it effective at revitalizing areas affected by fatigue or inflammation.
Current Cosmetic Uses of Menthol
Thanks to its cooling and soothing properties, menthol is used in a wide range of cosmetic products today. Some examples include:

Cooling gels and lotions: Products designed to relieve muscle tiredness or leg fatigue, very popular among athletes and people with jobs that require standing for long periods.
After-sun creams: Menthol is ideal for soothing the skin after sun exposure, relieving the sensation of heat and providing freshness.
Lip balms: This ingredient provides a refreshing sensation on the lips, as well as helping to soothe minor irritations.
Shampoos and hair products: In scalp products, menthol is used for its ability to deeply cleanse and leave a long-lasting feeling of freshness.
Massage creams: Products that combine menthol with other ingredients are popular for massages, as they provide a relaxing effect on both the muscles and the skin.

Use of Menthol in the Food Industry
In addition to its popularity in cosmetics, menthol is also widely used in the food industry. Its cooling properties and distinctive minty flavour make it an essential ingredient in a variety of products. Menthol is primarily used to add flavour and a cooling sensation to foods and beverages. It is commonly found in:

Gums and candies: In these products, menthol provides a cooling sensation that helps freshen breath and provides a pleasant taste experience. Mint gums and candies, in particular, are popular for this long-lasting cooling sensation.
Beverages: In cold beverages, menthol adds a hint of cooling that intensifies the refreshing sensation, especially in sodas and flavored waters. Its ability to activate cold receptors in the mouth creates an experience that many people associate with cooler hydration.
Baked goods and desserts: Menthol is also used in some desserts and baked goods, such as ice cream, cakes and mint pastries, to add a fresh, aromatic touch.

The versatility of menthol in the food industry is due not only to its taste, but also to its ability to create a cooling sensation without the need for low temperatures. This makes it a unique and highly valued ingredient for creating unique sensory experiences in food products.

Studied Effects of Menthol
Several studies have looked at the impact of menthol on thermal sensations, pain, and skin itch. In one study of 18 subjects, menthol was found to have a subjective cooling effect on the skin that can last up to 70 minutes in most participants. However, researchers also noted that menthol has no significant impact on thermal pain thresholds or hot and cold pain thresholds. That is, while the cooling sensation is real, it does not reduce the pain caused by extreme temperatures.

Another important observation from this study was the increase in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in the areas treated with menthol. This suggests that menthol may disrupt the skin's protective barrier, making it more permeable and, in some cases, more prone to irritation. Therefore, it is important to use menthol in appropriate concentrations and avoid applying it to sensitive areas, such as around the eyes.

Chem Fluid's Commitment to High Quality Menthol

With the inclusion of menthol in our portfolio, Chem Fluid seeks to strengthen its offering of high-quality ingredients, providing innovative and effective options for both the cosmetics and food industries. We offer menthol from a sustainable and controlled source to ensure that our customers obtain a safe and effective ingredient, ready to be incorporated into cutting-edge cosmetic and food formulations. We know that menthol is more than a cooling agent; it is a versatile tool to create unique sensory experiences in products that stand out for their freshness and soothing properties.