When we think of peppermint, we tend to think of freshness, energy and renewal.

As time goes on, however, we're discovering that peppermint is actually so much more than a sweet and refreshing remedy.

As well as its distinct mint aroma, it can help relax muscles, scare away spiders, and even relieve stress.

One of the most up-and-coming benefits of peppermint oil has been its effectiveness on hair, which in recent years has been being studied more and more to prove its success against common issues like hair growth, hair loss, and scalp health.

But how exactly is peppermint oil good for hair? How does it compare to all the other numerous haircare remedies out there? We've decided to dive deeper into what really makes this oil so great for luscious locks.

How does peppermint essential oil benefit hair?

A common ingredient found in peppermint oil is menthol.

Responsible for the cooling and refreshing effect of the oil, menthol is the driving force behind the many benefits of peppermint, with its presence helping to stimulate and soothe various ailments in the body.

Though menthol can also be found in other oils, peppermint contains one of the highest concentrations, meaning its effects are strongest when using this oil.

Peppermint oil benefits for hair

We've narrowed down some of the most impactful benefits of peppermint oil for hair, including how and why it can turn your locks from dreary and lacklustre to long and shiny in no time.  

How do you use peppermint essential oil on your hair?

For the best results, application to the hair and scalp must be regular (preferably daily) and completed as part of your normal hair care routine.

If you're not sure how to go about actually applying it, here are some common techniques to help get you started:

Create your own hair treatment

Like pretty much all essential oils, peppermint is a highly concentrated substance. Therefore, if you're going to put it in your hair, you must dilute it first.

We recommend using a carrier oil like argan or jojoba, as these generally have some great benefits for hair too. Jojoba is a particularly good choice if you suffer from acne or an oily scalp as it won't clog up your pores.

Combine the peppermint essential oil with your chosen carrier oil and massage evenly into the scalp and across your midsection to the ends of your hair. Make sure you add no more than a couple of drops per teaspoon of carrier oil.

Leave in for a few minutes, and then wash out. It's normal to feel a slight tingle on your skin, so don't panic! But do be sure to wash it out immediately if it becomes too much or starts to hurt.

Add to your shampoo and/or conditioner

This one's pretty self-explanatory. Simply add 5 drops into your existing shampoo or conditioner and shake well. Use as normal in the shower or bath.

It may take a little longer for results to show up by applying it this way, however it's a great choice for those of us who don't really feel like adding anything drastic to our routines.

Peppermint itself is a very common ingredient in many shampoos and conditioners, mostly for its refreshing smell as well as its soothing feeling.

However, these products likely won't contain any actual essential oil in them, so the benefits to your hair would be limited in comparison.

Massage the scalp

Conducting a scalp massage with your peppermint and carrier oil mixture can be a great way to boost the hair follicles without having to wait around. 

It is also a good idea to perform this method if you're someone who frequently suffers from tension headaches, as the cooling scent is said to help relieve pain. 

What are the don'ts of peppermint oil?

Even though peppermint oil might be natural, it can still be incredibly dangerous if used incorrectly. 

Make sure that you always dilute your peppermint oil before applying it to your scalp or hair, as failure to do so could result in painful rashes and irritation.

The most popular and efficient way to do this is with a carrier oil, and you can check out our dilution guide for more tips on how to properly mix the two together. 

You should also never consume peppermint oil, as doing so could be extremely harmful to your internal organs - and it certainly won't benefit your hair. 

If you've never used peppermint oil on your hair before, or if you're trying out a new type of oil, make sure to always perform a patch test before implementing it into your routine. 

What are good essential oils for hair?

If you find you're not best getting on with peppermint oil, or would rather try a number of oils before committing to one, there are a few other natural remedies that may be worth exploring.

Rosemary oil has become infamous for its ability to boost hair growth, thickness, and shine, while classic lavender essential oil also boasts positive hair health credentials.

Even carrier oils like coconut oil have earned their rightful spot in the hair limelight, so it's definitely worth checking these out if you want a more well-rounded wellness experience. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can peppermint oil help with dandruff?

The soothing, anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint are incredibly effective for reducing dandruff, helping to cool the scalp as well as prevent further irritation. 

To feel the effects of peppermint oil for dandruff, simply add a few drops to your existing shampoo and use as normal. 

Can peppermint oil cause irritation on the scalp? 

Peppermint oil may cause irritation on the scalp if too much is used at one time. This is due to the oil's natural potency. 

Be sure to always properly dilute your peppermint oil with a carrier oil before use, and limit application to once a day at the most. 

Can peppermint oil damage your hair?

Peppermint oil shouldn't cause any damage to your hair, as long as you're using it correctly. 

Applying peppermint to your hair while it's still undiluted can be dangerous for a number of reasons - so as long as you're following the proper steps, you should be good to go. 

Can I mix peppermint oil with water for hair?

Simply massaging the oil into your hair with water sadly won't work, as oils naturally separate themselves from water and would therefore leave the peppermint at its undiluted strength. 

Adding the oil with water to a spray bottle, however, could be an effective solution if you shake the bottle well before every use. 

Does peppermint oil help with an itchy scalp? 

The cooling anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint can not only help see an end to your dandruff, but can also alleviate the unpleasant itchiness that comes with it. 

Peppermint's natural anti-bacterial and antifungal properties further contribute to this relief. 

Even though the science behind using peppermint oil for hair is still fairly sparse, the results so far have shown great evidence to suggest its effectiveness.

Like many beauty and lifestyle treatments, results to your hair won't happen overnight, but don't give up! Your hair will ultimately thank you for it.