If you're looking for a buzzy, minty-fresh ingredient that offers multiple scalp and hair benefits (yes, including hair-growth perks), peppermint oil is an affordable option that should be on your radar.
More specifically, "peppermint oil is great for hair because it stimulates circulation to the scalp, which can promote hair growth," says Mandy (Mandy B. Beauty) Buechner, a certified trichologist.
"It also soothes itchiness, reduces dandruff, and has antimicrobial properties that support a healthy scalp," she explains.
Along with Buechner, we spoke with two board-certified dermatologists as well as a medical esthetician to find out more about this trendy oil and how it nurtures both the hair and scalp.
Scroll down to score the best expert-recommended peppermint oils for hair from Gya Labs, Aveda, Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross and more. The best part? These popular picks won't break the bank, as they start at under $10.
The benefits of peppermint oil for your hair
"Peppermint oil has been used to treat scalp skin and hair follicles because it may increase circulation and improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to skin and hair cells," explains Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist.
"Peppermint oil contains menthol, which gives peppermint its characteristic cooling sensation and acts as a vasodilator, increasing blood flow," he suggests.
"Improved oxygen delivery offers antioxidant benefits, such as protecting hair from oxidative stress from pollution, UV radiation, and normal cellular metabolism," notes Camp.
Buechner adds that peppermint oil also adds natural shine to the hair. She advises users to mix it with a carrier oil before applying.
Kristin Gunn, a cosmetic injection specialist and medical aesthetician, recommends diluting the peppermint oil with jojoba or coconut oil before massaging into the scalp to help avoid irritation.
Does peppermint oil help with hair growth?
Yes, according to Gunn, peppermint oil can help stimulate hair growth.
“The menthol in peppermint oil is thought to increase blood flow to the scalp, which can help deliver more nutrients to hair follicles and potentially encourage growth,” she suggests.
“Peppermint oil also has antimicrobial properties that can help keep the scalp clean and free of buildup, which is especially beneficial for maintaining healthy hair growth,” Gunn adds.
Camp, on the other hand, makes clear that "hair oils do not directly cause hair growth but rather improve scalp conditions that may improve the health of scalp skin and hair follicles."
He further explains that hair oils repair dry, damaged hair "by restoring moisture, providing important vitamins and nutrients, and limiting shedding and breakage."
The best peppermint oils for hair, according to experts
Most budget friendly: Gya Labs Peppermint Oil
- Affordable
- Good quality
- Helps reduce itchiness
- Smell may be very strong
Size: 1.02 oz. | Other key ingredients: N/A
Buechner loves this budget-friendly peppermint oil, which should be mixed with a carrier oil prior to hair application. "Gya Labs is a trusted essential oil manufacturer and source," she suggests. "They always have high quality products that are affordable."
This Amazon's Choice hair care product is 100% natural and has 1,700+ five-star ratings.
Affordable expert pick: As I Am Rosemary Oil
- Very moisturizing
- Pleasant scent
- Bottle may leak
Size: 2 oz. | Other key ingredients: Rosemary oil, biotin
"Formulated with rosemary, peppermint oil and melatonin, this oil stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, reduces breakage, and soothes itchiness," suggests Gunn. "It’s suitable for all hair types and can be applied directly to the scalp without dilution," she explains.
"Pure and natural" oil: Soulflower Peppermint Essential Oil
Size: 0.5 oz. | Other key ingredients: N/A
This option is "a 100% pure and natural oil that gently cleanses the scalp, strengthens hair roots, and manages dandruff," notes Gunn. "It also moisturizes and conditions dry scalps, making it a versatile addition to your hair care regimen," she suggests.
Multipurpose pick: Aveda Peppermint Essential Oil + Base
- Nice smell
- Vegan
- Can be hard to find
Size: 1.0 oz. | Other key ingredients: N/A
“I love that this oil is versatile and can be used for many different purposes, in addition to on the scalp and hair,” suggests Dr. Marisa K. Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist. “It can also be used on the skin and may be applied onto the skin after bath or shower or can be added to the bath itself,” she adds.
This versatile oil also layers well with lavender or eucalyptus, according to the brand.
Great for all hair types:Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Scalp Serum
- Helps with itchy scalp
- Easy to apply
- Cooling
- May leave sticky residue
Size: 4.0 oz. | Other key ingredients: Glycerin, niacinamide, rosemary leaf oil, lavender oil
Camp is a big fan of this Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Scalp Serum. "Peppermint, rosemary and lavender oils soothe, calm, and tingle scalp skin and hair while conditioning to prevent flakes," he explains.
This dermatologist-tested scalp serum is designed for every "hair pattern" and absorbs quickly, according to the brand.
Very hydrating: Allpa Botanicals Peppermint Hair OilMade from hand-picked peppermint: Allpa Botanicals Peppermint Hair Oil
- Soothes scalp
- Smells nice
- Pricey for amount of product
Size: 2 oz. | Other key ingredients: Sacha inchi, maracuja and castor oil
Both Camp and Gunn recommend Allpa Botanicals Peppermint Hair Oil.
"Pure and organic, this peppermint hair oil is made from hand-picked peppermint farmed in the Andean highlands and can be used to sooth itchiness, hydrate hair and skin, and leave the scalp feeling clean and refreshed," explains Camp.
Splurge option: Philip B Peppermint Avocado Shampoo
- Smells great
- Cools scalp
- Cap may leak
Size: 7.4 oz. | Other key ingredients: Avocado oil, lavender flower extract
Garshick also recommends this hair care product from Philip B that is enriched with avocado oil. "This shampoo combines peppermint oil with 16 plant extracts to gently but effectively cleanse the scalp while also leaving the hair and scalp looking and feeling refreshed," she explains.
Frequently asked questions
Buechner says generally, yes — but she recommends those with sensitive skin or scalp conditions patch-test first.
Yes, it is totally normal. "The menthol in peppermint causes a refreshing tingling sensation as it boosts circulation," explains Buechner. "That cooling feeling is your hair follicles getting oxygen and nutrients from your blood supply which promotes healthier hair growth," she adds.
If pregnant, Buechner recommends consulting a healthcare provider before using essential oils.
Buechner recommends using peppermint oil on your hair one to three times per week. "Start slowly to see how your scalp reacts," she suggests.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best peppermint oils for hair by enlisting the recommendations of a certified trichologist as well as two board-certified dermatologists and a medical esthetician.
Meet the experts
- Mandy (Mandy B. Beauty) Buechner is a certified trichologist at Thairapy Wellness Center in Crescent City, California.
- Dr. Brendan Camp is a double board-certified dermatologist in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.
- Kristin Gunn BS, CLT, LMA is a cosmetic injection specialist and medical esthetician, and the owner of Beaux Medspa and Halcyon Skincare.
- Dr. Marisa K. Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist currently working in New York and New Jersey. She also works at Cornell as an assistant clinical professor of dermatology.
