Have you ever experienced a refreshing, cooling sensation on your skin or scalp while making your way through your beauty routine? If so, then you probably have at least one product in your beauty cabinet that’s formulated with menthol. This minty ingredient offers a variety of benefits, and, not surprisingly, it has been popping up in many go-to skincare essentials lately. Ahead, we’re unveiling everything you should know about menthol in skincare products, including who should use it, which types of menthol-infused formulas to look out for, and what types of benefits it may offer your beauty regimen. Let’s dive in!
What Is Menthol?
If you’re up-to-date on the latest skincare trends, then you’re probably already aware that menthol is a peppermint-derived ingredient. But what many beauty enthusiasts don’t know is that menthol has actually been used since ancient times, dating as far back as two thousand years in Japan. This organic compound occurs naturally in peppermint and is usually extracted from peppermint oil, other mint oils, or created synthetically. The most popular species of mint used to produce menthol is known as mentha arvensis.
Why Is Menthol Used in Skincare?
So, we know you might be wondering: What’s menthol’s true claim to fame in skincare products? It’s the invigorating cooling properties and delicious peppermint aroma, of course! This seriously useful ingredient is most commonly found in detoxifying shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, ointments, shaving creams, or any products aimed at delivering an instantly refreshed, energized feeling to skin.
What Are Menthol’s Benefits For Skin?
If you need yet another reason to adore this skincare ingredient, there’s more—research has found that menthol may even act as an analgesic when applied topically. This makes menthol a popular choice in products targeting irritated or blemish-prone skin, as well as products formulated for scalp irritation, after-sun lotions, and cooling gels. In lip products, menthol is also making a huge splash in glosses and balms that create a temporary plumping effect by improving blood flow to the area. When you combine the appealing minty scent and flavor with the soothing properties of menthol, it’s easy to see why this ingredient deserves a place in your beauty line-up.
Kiehl’s Skincare Products With Menthol
This minty fresh ingredient is one that shines in many Kiehl’s skincare favorites. If you are already addicted to our Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatment or Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion, keep reading to discover the key benefits behind a few of these menthol skincare must-haves!
Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash
No matter who you are, every skincare routine needs a good cleanser—and our signature Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash is the perfect staple product for men. This gel face wash is formulated with menthol, caffeine, vitamin E to help effectively wash away dirt, debris, and oil from skin and give tired-looking skin a healthier appearance. Specially formulated for the unique needs of men’s skin, it also helps revive and awaken your skin for a complexion that feels less stressed post-shave. If you’re looking for an energizing way to start the day, this Kiehl’s customer favorite for men is here for you!
Simply wet your face in the morning and at night, lather the gel cleanser between your palms, and massage onto your skin in an upward motion before rinsing with lukewarm water.
Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatment
By now, you already know that menthol’s cooling sensation is pretty refreshing and great at soothing skin. This natural effect is the perfect addition to our Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatment, a foaming acne cleanser formulated to help clear blemishes and prevent new ones from forming. The perfect first step in any acne skincare routine, this cleanser helps purify pores and remove traces of dirt and oil. Plus, it’s inspired by our iconic Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion, another menthol-infused favorite that was originally formulated in 1964. Read on to learn more about this unique toner!
Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion
If you’re battling active breakouts, we recommend reaching for a targeted acne treatment, such as Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion. Featuring menthol and camphor for an instantly refreshed feeling, this unique facial toner is not to be missed in your acne-prone skin regimen. Simply put, this lotion is an iconic part of any Kiehl’s line-up. It helps remove any leftover dirt or oil after cleansing and effectively soothes and balances blemish-prone areas. Plus, you can even use your Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion as a wonderfully soothing aftershave lotion.
To apply, swipe a generous amount over your entire face, using a clean cotton pad, or simply use it as a spot treatment wherever needed to help address problem areas.
Facial Fuel Energizing Scrub
If you haven’t heard by now, exfoliation is important—both in women’s and men’s skincare. In fact, the right exfoliating product can effectively help remove dead skin cells and help keep your skin looking brighter and better able to absorb products. When it comes to exfoliating, you have two popular options to choose from: exfoliating cleansers, like our Age Defender Dual-Action Exfoliating Cleanser, or an exfoliating scrub. We recommend our favorite scrub, Facial Fuel Energizing Scrub, for an invigorating option infused with apricot kernels, caffeine, menthol, vitamin E, and citrus extracts. Another men’s skincare favorite, this efficient facial scrub also helps soften tough facial hair for a more comfortable, closer shave.
Use this scrub up to three times per week to slough your skin after cleansing. To apply, wet your face and gently massage onto your skin, avoiding the eye area, and rinse thoroughly.
Body Fuel Wash
Who doesn’t want their routine simplified? This all-in-one energizing hair and body wash for men cleanses and conditions; and really allows the minty goodness of menthol to take center stage. Formulated with vitamin E, vitamin C, and zinc (in addition to menthol, of course), this versatile hair and body wash is perfect for simple head-to-toe cleansing. Our Body Fuel Wash gently removes excess oil, sweat, and impurities from your skin and scalp, while kick-starting your senses for optimal performance.
Enjoy the uplifting aroma of this men’s hair and body wash by applying to damp skin or hair and working into a lather. Next, rinse well and move on to the next step in your routine.
Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream White Eagle
When following a men’s skincare routine, there are a few easy steps: You cleanse, exfoliate, and tone, and then it’s time to shave. But not so fast—it’s crucial to take extra care when removing facial hair to avoid any unwanted bumps, burns, or dryness. Avoid committing the common men’s skincare faux-pas of shaving dry skin by reaching for Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream White Eagle, a hydrating brushless shave cream. This cream helps your razor glide effortlessly over damp skin, keeping irritation to a minimum and leaving your skin primed for a close, comfortable shave. Of course, it includes menthol as well, for a wonderfully minty aroma!
Next: For a deeper look into another one of our must-have ingredients for healthy-looking skin, check out The Skincare Benefits Of Squalane.
Blue Herbal Acne Cleanser Treatment
