Best For Skin Types
All
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Mentha Arvensis Extract?
Mentha arvensis extract is derived from corn mint, a plant in the Mentha family native to Asia. The extract contains menthol and other naturally occurring compounds that have been used in skincare and cosmetic formulations for their sensory and conditioning properties.
In skincare products, this ingredient primarily functions as a skin conditioning agent and fragrance component, delivering a characteristic cooling sensation when applied to the skin.
How It Works
The cooling effect associated with Mentha arvensis extract is primarily due to its menthol content. Menthol interacts with sensory nerve receptors in the skin, creating a perceived cooling sensation without lowering actual skin temperature. This is a sensory response rather than a physiological temperature change.
The extract also appears to have mild conditioning properties that help support skin hydration, though the specific mechanisms in topical skincare remain understudied.
Clinical Evidence & References
Research into Mentha arvensis extract in topical skincare applications is limited. Some laboratory studies suggest the extract may have mild anti-inflammatory properties through mast cell modulation, but these findings come from non-topical or animal studies and their relevance to skincare use requires further investigation.
The ingredient is generally well-tolerated and recognised as safe for cosmetic use, though robust clinical evidence specifically evaluating its efficacy in skincare products remains sparse.
Published Research
How to Use
Mentha arvensis extract is typically used in small concentrations within formulations. If you enjoy the cooling sensation of minty products, look for it listed in the ingredient list; if you prefer to avoid this effect, check formulations carefully. Use as directed by the product instructions, and discontinue if irritation occurs.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizPart of a family
Mentha Arvensis Extract is a variant of Mentha Arvensis Leaf/Stem Oil, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
A minty herb extract that conditions skin and provides sensory freshness
Related Ingredients
Mentha Arvensis Leaf/Stem Oil
A minty herb extract that conditions skin and provides sensory freshness
Melaleuca Ericifolia Leaf Oil
A botanical essential oil with toning and fragrance properties
Melissa Officinalis Leaf Oil
A botanical oil traditionally used for its aromatic and skin-conditioning properties
Mentha Aquatica Extract
A mint extract traditionally used in herbal medicine with emerging skincare applications
Mentha Arvensis Powder
A naturally derived powder that refreshes and soothes the skin with a cooling sensation
Mentha Piperita Leaf
A botanical extract with cooling and soothing properties for topical skincare
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.