Have you heard about using essential oils for hair growth and thickness? Peppermint oil is good for hair growth, plus it soothes an itchy scalp and balances oil production. It’s helpful if you have dandruff because it’s antimicrobial, too.
If you’re looking for the best peppermint oils for hair, you’re in the right place. Check out the reviews below to learn more:
| The best peppermint oils for the hair | Why we love them |
|---|---|
| Plant Therapy Organic Peppermint Essential Oil |
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| SVA Organics Japanese Peppermint Essential Oil |
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| NOW Foods Essential Oils Peppermint |
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| Well's Jamaican Black Castor Oil Original, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Rosemary Spray |
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| Design Essentials Scalp and Skin Care Anti-Itch and Tension Relief |
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| CB SMOOTHE Edge Growth Oil |
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| Peppermint Shampoo and Conditioner by Tree to Tub |
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How is peppermint oil good for the hair?
Peppermint causes a tingly sensation on the scalp because it speeds up blood circulation. In turn, the increased circulation stimulates hair growth. It also inhibits the growth of harmful microbes.
A study compared the benefits of peppermint oil (Mentha piperita) to the hair loss treatment minoxidil (also known by the brand name Rogaine) on mice. What’s interesting is that peppermint oil caused more hair growth than minoxidil. The skin ended up with more follicles that were seated deeper (leading to stronger hair) and the hair itself was thicker with the peppermint oil treatment. In scientific terms, the peppermint oil brought on a “rapid anagen stage” for quick hair growth (1).
How to use peppermint oil for hair growth
If you want to try peppermint oil for hair growth, you’ll need to dilute it with a carrier oil. Peppermint is an essential oil distilled from the mint plant and it’s very potent on its own. Diluting it doesn’t weaken the peppermint, but instead makes it safe for your skin.
For every tablespoon of carrier oil, you can add two or three drops of peppermint oil. Mix it well and massage it on the scalp. You can leave the peppermint oil in your hair overnight, or wait at least five minutes before shampooing.
How often can you use peppermint oil in your hair? It depends on your skin type. People with an oily scalp can use peppermint oil daily. Otherwise, those with dry skin may find that three times a week is enough. If you want to use it more often, combine peppermint oil with argan oil, which is an excellent moisturizing oil for both the skin and hair.
Side effects of peppermint oil for hair
We’re glad you asked about side effects. It’s normal for peppermint oil to tingle and feel cool on the skin. It may make the skin turn a little pink, too. The effects last for a few minutes after applying the oil then fade (2).
But if you notice that it burns or hurts or causes redness that doesn’t fade after a few minutes, you might be sensitized to peppermint oil. Even if peppermint oil has never caused this problem for you in the past, it’s always a risk if the oil isn’t properly diluted. Also, don’t apply peppermint oil to broken skin.
If you develop a rash or have trouble breathing, get medical help immediately.
Best Peppermint Oil for Hair in 2024
Now that we’ve covered the fine print, here are the in-depth reviews you’ve been waiting for.
Plant Therapy Organic Peppermint Essential Oil, 100% Pure
This peppermint oil is USDA-certified organic and non-GMO. It’s steam-distilled from Mentha piperita plants grown in India. It’s from one of our favorite brands of essential oils.
Each batch of the oil undergoes multiple tests for purity and quality. These are done by third-party laboratories. You can view the gas chromatography and mass spectrometry results for yourself. The oils are also assessed with an organoleptic test that checks how the oil smells, feels, looks, and so on.
Another advantage is that the manufacturer sells directly to the public instead of going through a multilevel marketing scheme. Therefore, the prices are reasonable.
Lastly, the company has certified aromatherapists available to answer questions about the peppermint oil and other products they offer.
Since you’ll be diluting this peppermint oil with a carrier, the 1-ounce bottle should last for months. You can also use a few drops in a diffuser for aromatherapy. Peppermint is great for waking up in the morning or helping to focus on schoolwork.
Pros:
- USDA-certified organic, Non-GMO pure peppermint oil from the Mentha piperita plant
- Each batch is scrutinized by third-party labs that perform GC/MS and organoleptic testing
- Test results are viewable by consumers
- Brand has certified aromatherapists available to answer questions
- Sales are direct to the public
Cons:
- None
Organic Argan Oil for Hair and Skin from Kate Blanc
Here’s the carrier oil we recommend for diluting peppermint oil. Why do we prefer argan oil instead of coconut oil or something else? It’s a proven remedy for dry skin and hair, but it won’t clog pores or cause oiliness. You can use it on your hair, skin, and nails as a moisturizer all by itself.
This particular argan oil comes from trees grown in Morocco. It’s USDA-certified and unrefined. The oil is cold-pressed, so it’s hexane-free, too. It comes in either light or nutty versions, and both are backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
The oil comes in a tinted glass bottle to protect it from sunlight, but it’s still a good idea to store it in a cool, dark place just like you would peppermint oil. It comes with a dropper so you don’t have to pour it.
SVA Organics Japanese Peppermint Essential Oil
How is Japanese peppermint oil different from other types of peppermint? It’s made from Mentha arvensis instead of piperita. This type of mint is also known as corn mint and wild mint.
Although the scent is slightly different, the effect is just is cooling and tingly. It’s steam-distilled from the plant leaves and bottled in the USA. It also comes with a satisfaction guarantee.
Why might you choose Mentha arvensis or corn mint oil for the hair? A study showed that this version of peppermint had “maximum antimicrobial activity” (3).
Of course, all the Mentha species are anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. They are a superior natural solution for treating everything from dandruff to diabetes and even cancer.
Pros:
- Steam-distilled from the Mentha arvensis plant with strong antimicrobial properties
- Bottled in the USA, comes with a satisfaction guarantee
- Slightly smoother scent, but strong tingle
Cons:
- None
NOW Foods Essential Oils Peppermint
This family-owned has been making nutritional supplements and essential oils for decades in America. They have an extensive testing process for each batch of naturally distilled oil to guarantee its purity and potency. They don’t include additives or diluents.
The advantage here is a larger bottle of peppermint oil at an affordable price. The 4 ounces will last a long time, and the included dropper is handy for measuring the right amount.
Pros:
- Large bottle of pure peppermint oil at an affordable price
- Comes with a dropper
- Reputable manufacturer with an extensive in-house testing process
Cons:
- Not certified organic
Well’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Original, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Rosemary Spray
Up until now we’ve discussed oils that you massage into the scalp. This can be a bit messy. Worse, if you don’t wash your hands thoroughly after putting on peppermint oil, then you rub your eyes, it’s going to hurt a lot.
What’s the solution? A peppermint oil spray like this one is perfect. Spritz it on your scalp and get on with your day.
But it’s not pure peppermint oil. It includes other hair growth stimulants like black castor oil, plus moisturizers like argan, jojoba, sweet almond, safflower, and vitamin E. Wait a minute – that’s the whole formula!
Happily, there are no artificial ingredients like alcohol, preservatives, fragrances, or mineral oil. It’s all-natural and good for the skin and hair.
Users say it smells great and absorbs well. Also, it seems to have helped many people grow back hair after traction alopecia. (That’s when your hair is pulled out from wearing braids, a weave, or extensions).
Pros:
- All-natural blend of peppermint, black castor, argan, and other plant oils with vitamin E
- No artificial preservatives, fragrances, alcohol, or mineral oil
- Packaged in a spray bottle for no-mess application
- Moisturizes the scalp and hair, stimulates hair growth
Cons:
- None
Design Essentials Scalp and Skin Care Anti-Itch and Tension Relief
If you’ve ever worn a wig, a weave, tight braids, or extensions, you know how itchy your scalp can get. What’s worse is when dandruff shows up. But this cooling liquid will calm irritation and keep the scalp comfortable. It’s packaged with a pointed nozzle for precise application.
The strong mint aroma might make your eyes blink, but the soothing tingle relieves the itching in moments. Moreover, the formula has tea tree oil, a potent anti-dandruff ingredient.
It’s appropriate for all hair types and safe for relaxed styles and color-treated hair. It contains no artificial fragrance or mineral oil.
What’s the downside? We checked the label and saw there are a few components that might irritate very sensitive skin. On the upside, you can use it on wet or dry hair.
Pros:
- Soothes irritation and itching caused by protective styles
- Features mint, tea tree, and clove oils
- Fights dandruff
- No artificial fragrance or mineral oil
Cons:
- Check the label if you have sensitive skin
CB SMOOTHE Edge Growth Oil
When paired with rosemary, castor oil, biotin, and zinc, peppermint oil is even more potent against hair loss. This nourishing formula features all of the above and more, like eucalyptus, tea tree, and coconut oil, plus moisturizers like grapeseed and olive oils. That’s not even the whole label, but you get the idea.
Furthermore, there are no nasty chemicals to worry about. There are no parabens, mineral oil, petrolatum, or formaldehyde releasers in the bottle.
Use it to restore moisture to your scalp while wearing dreadlocks or soothe itchy, dry skin with a pleasant tingle.
Pros:
- Natural formula packed to the brim with hair growth ingredients
- Peppermint, rosemary, castor, tea tree, and other nourishing oils
- Also has zinc, niacin, and biotin for healthy hair and scalp
- No parabens, mineral oil, petrolatum, or formaldehyde releasers
Cons:
- None
Peppermint Shampoo and Conditioner by Tree to Tub
What about peppermint oil in your shampoo and conditioner? After all, not everyone wants to put straight oil on their hair.
This shampoo and conditioner are based on organic ingredients that nourish the skin and hair. Although peppermint isn’t the main ingredient, it appears in both formulas. The shampoo has Mentha piperita and the conditioner uses Mentha arvensis. They leave the scalp cool and fresh and the hair soft and aromatic.
Instead of harsh sulfates and scary preservatives, the formula is mild and natural. It’s pH-balanced, vegan, and backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
Pros:
- Organic formulas featuring Mentha piperita and Mentha arvensis oils
- No sulfates, parabens, or harsh chemicals
- pH-balanced and refreshing for the scalp
- Comes with a satisfaction guarantee
Cons:
- None, although if you have type IV curly or coily hair, these may not be moisturizing enough
Conclusion
Peppermint oil is Nature’s treat for the hair and scalp. It’s helpful for calming itchy skin and reducing oiliness and flaking. It also stimulates thick, strong hair growth.
We hope these reviews helped you find the best peppermint oil today. We’d love to hear about your experience with it, so please drop us a comment below.
Source:
1. http://koreascience.or.kr/article/JAKO201402755363070.page Oh, Ji Young, et al. “Peppermint Oil Promotes Hair Growth without Toxic Signs.” Toxicological Research, vol. 30, no. 4, The Korean Society of Toxicology, Dec. 2014, pp. 297–304. Crossref, doi:10.5487/tr.2014.30.4.297., accessed September 1, 2021
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21144345/ Herro E, Jacob SE. Mentha piperita (peppermint). Dermatitis. 2010 Nov-Dec;21(6):327-9. PMID: 21144345., accessed September 1, 2021
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7923432/ Tafrihi, Majid et al. “The Wonderful Activities of the Genus Mentha: Not Only Antioxidant Properties.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 26,4 1118. 20 Feb. 2021, doi:10.3390/molecules26041118, accessed September 1, 2021