Menthol.
Also known as: L-menthol, levomenthol, mentha piperita extract, peppermint menthol
An organic compound derived from mint or synthesized artificially. Like camphor, it provides a cooling sensation in lip products but acts as an irritant that can dry out and damage the delicate lip barrier.
By the numbers.
1 = low concern, 10 = avoid.
Risk by usage.
How risk shifts depending on how often you use products with Menthol.
Low risk; temporary sensation without lasting harm.
Regular daily use on lips contributes to chronic dryness and barrier disruption.
Strongly contributes to lip balm addiction. Switch to menthol-free options.
What the research says.
Irritates the thin skin of the lips, causing dryness and peeling with repeated application.
Can trigger allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals.
Creates a lip balm dependency cycle similar to camphor, where users reapply to soothe the irritation caused by the product itself.
Global status.
How menthol is regulated in cosmetics around the world.
The reason brands include it.
Creates a pleasant cooling and tingling sensation. Also has mild analgesic and antibacterial properties.
7
products in our database
4
brands use it
2
product categories
Better alternatives exist. Brands choose menthol because it’s cheap and effective, but safer options like shea butter, vitamin E, chamomile extract deliver similar results without the health concerns.
Menthol in product types.
Click a category to see every product containing menthol.
Products Containing Menthol
These popular products list menthol in their ingredient labels. Tap any card to see the full breakdown.
Compared to Numbrrrz.
Here’s how the lowest-scoring product containing menthol compares.
Carmex Cherry Lip Balm
Carmex
Numbrrrz
Organic Lip Balm
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What to use instead.
What Numbrrrz uses instead
Numbrrrz delivers nourishing hydration without menthol or other irritants that damage lip skin.
Quick answers.
Is menthol bad for your lips?
Are natural mint lip balms better?
Does menthol cause lip balm addiction?
Can menthol cause allergic reactions?
What are other names for menthol on labels?
Does Numbrrrz use menthol or peppermint?
How these brands stack up.
Brands that use menthol — see how they compare.