Menthol
A cosmetic ingredient used as denaturant, fragrance, refreshing in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-
What does it do?
Menthol is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Denaturant
makes ethanol in cosmetics unfit for drinking — required by regulation when alcohol is used
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Fragrance
provides scent or masks the natural odour of other ingredients
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Refreshing
provides a cooling, refreshing sensation on skin
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Soothing
helps calm irritated or sensitive skin
EU regulatory status
Menthol is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Menthol?
Menthol is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethyl)-
Is Menthol allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Menthol is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Menthol do in cosmetic products?
Menthol is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: denaturant, fragrance, refreshing, soothing.
What is the CAS number of Menthol?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Menthol is 1490-04-6 / 2216-51-5 / 89-78-1 / 15356-70-4.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010