Does Peppermint Oil for Hair Really Work? Experts Weigh In

With all of the different hair products on the market, it can be hard to keep up with what’s legit. So, when we started to hear the buzz about peppermint oil for hair, we had some questions. Like, can it actually boost hair growth and make strands healthier overall? And how does it compare to other popular hair oils like Argan and rosemary?

To answer all of these questions and more, we went straight to the experts. Trichologist, Kerry E. Yates, and dermatologist, Ryan Turner, MD, shared their honest thoughts about peppermint oil for hair, including its benefits, who should be using it, and how to use it.

Benefits of peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is a triple threat as it is “naturally antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory,” explains Dr. Turner. Because of these proven benefits, it makes for a “popular remedy to find relief from scalp concerns like dandruff and dermatitis.” In addition to its power to soothe the scalp, relieving tension and itchiness, Yates points out that peppermint oil can also be used on the hair as an emollient. “Not as common as other oils like jojoba, but Peppermint can help soften the hair, smoothing down the cuticle and improving pliability and suppleness.”

But, that’s not all. Yates adds that peppermint oil works well for sensory support, too. The “energizing oil is commonly used for aromatherapy and works brilliantly to help offset the unpleasant odor some oily consumers and dandruff sufferers experience.” If you’ve ever smelled peppermint oil or a formula that utilizes the ingredient, you know that there’s nothing subtle about its scent and it tends to have an overpowering presence, often in a pleasant way.

In terms of how it compares to other oils, more research has been done on rosemary oil for hair growth, though Dr. Turner says additional studies need to be conducted. But, there are formulas that combine both rosemary and peppermint oils for a two-pronged approach for hair health and growth.

How to use peppermint oil

The most important thing to note when it comes to using peppermint oil is that you shouldn’t be applying it directly to the scalp without diluting it, as it can be irritating. Yates recommends diluting the peppermint oil in water or your favorite product, like shampoo. “A good measure is a max of 5 drops of oil to 1 ounce of liquid (water/shampoo),” she says.

To minimize the risk of irritation, Dr. Turner recommends using a product that is formulated with peppermint oil rather than trying to DIY your own treatment. He also says that you should try spot treating a section of the hair for a week, along with patch testing on the skin/scalp, ahead of slathering on a new product. If you experience a burning sensation, he says to wash it off immediately.

Can peppermint oil be used on all hair and skin types?

Knowing that you should be using a diluted form of peppermint oil, there are different formulas to choose from. Some will be mixed with other oils that are gentler on the skin. Dr. Turner says to “consider your carrier oil carefully—lighter oils like jojoba can be suitable for most skin and hair types as it functions similarly to our own skin oils. Richer oils like coconut or castor can be very nourishing to dry skin and coarse hair types, but likely too heavy on oily skin or hair, or fine hair types.” For this reason, it’s important to scan ingredient labels before choosing the peppermint oil formula that’s best for you.

Can peppermint oil boost hair growth?

Like with most ingredients or products that are given the title of a hair growth miracle, there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach to hair loss. But, Dr. Turner says, “there is evidence, albeit limited, that peppermint oil can promote blood flow in the scalp, not only supporting a healthier scalp but stimulating hair growth and encouraging healthier hair follicle function,” referencing a 2014 study done on mice. He further explains the mechanisms of peppermint oil and its terpenes (active compounds found in plants) are partially responsible for its benefits, adding that its most dominant terpene is menthol.

And you know the refreshing cooling sensation that comes from menthol when applied to the skin? Well, Dr. Turner explains, “that is actually an indication of vasodilation (increased blood flow),” which can be beneficial in encouraging hair growth. He points to terpenes such as menthol aiding in the absorption of other ingredients, too, so peppermint oil can make a good addition to a product for that reason as well.

Yates cited the same 2014 study that determined the usage of peppermint oil could help grow/create new follicles, saying that this is impossible as in humans, “your body cannot create more follicles.” Dr. Turner echoed that sentiment, saying, “Once a hair follicle is dead, it cannot produce new hair.” So, while peppermint oil may contribute to healthier hair growth thanks to its multitude of benefits, including boosted circulation, it’s not going to make your scalp sprout new follicles. Turner also stresses the importance of knowing why you may be experiencing hair loss or hair thinning in the first place, as there are treatments that are better suited to each cause.

He says, “If you’re experiencing thinning hair, it is important to see a dermatologist to determine the cause and address it as quickly as possible.”

How long will it take to see benefits from using peppermint oil?

If you’re dealing with an inflamed scalp or dandruff, peppermint oil may yield results pretty quickly. But, in terms of your physical hair health and hair growth, Dr. Turner says it will take some time to observe. “In most cases, when using a product for hair growth, you’ll want to give it about three months to work before determining its efficacy (as long as you aren’t experiencing irritation).”

Peppermint oil products

Yates is a fan of the Malin and Goetz Peppermint Shampoo, and says it’s “perfect for anyone with fine or oily hair,” pointing out that it is designed as a clarifying shampoo, so it’s meant for a deeper cleanse. You wouldn’t want to use it every time you wash, but rather when you’re looking for a more thorough wash.

As for a treatment product, Dr. Turner recommends the Sunday II Sunday peppermint oil that’s already pre-blended with other hair-healthy oils such as tea tree oil and argan, so you don’t have to DIY. His other pick: OGX Extra Strength Rosemary Mint Scalp Treatment. He says that the “formula combines peppermint leaf extract with menthol, rosemary oil, and witch hazel to help invigorate, soothe, and clarify the scalp.”