How Peppermint Oil May Support Hair Growth

From TikTok hacks to wellness blogs, peppermint oil has earned a buzzworthy spot in the conversation about hair growth. With its refreshing scent and cooling sensation, many are curious whether this essential oil can do more than just tingle your scalp. But does peppermint oil actually stimulate hair regrowth or is it just another beauty myth?

Here’s what science (and experts) currently say about using peppermint oil for hair growth and what you should know before trying it.

What Is Peppermint Oil, Exactly?

Peppermint oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves and flowering parts of the Mentha piperita plant, a natural hybrid of water mint and spearmint. While it’s long been used for digestive relief and headaches, some animal studies suggest it might have potential hair-promoting properties but human data is still limited.

Can Peppermint Oil Promote Hair Growth?

Despite anecdotal claims, there is no strong scientific evidence that peppermint oil directly supports hair growth in humans. A 2024 review of alternative therapies for androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss) found insufficient clinical evidence to recommend peppermint oil as a treatment.

However, in lab research using mice, results were more promising:

• A 4-week topical application increased follicle depth, dermal thickness, and follicle count

• A blend of peppermint with chrysanthemum and licorice promoted regrowth and increased hair root numbers

These findings suggest peppermint oil may stimulate follicles in animals, but human trials are lacking so any benefits should be considered speculative at this stage.

Is Peppermint Oil Safe to Use on Hair?

For most adults, peppermint oil can be safe when diluted and used topically but there are important precautions:

• Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin or scalp; always mix with a carrier oil (such as jojoba, coconut, or argan oil)

• Avoid use on children, especially infants, as menthol (a key compound in peppermint oil) can cause serious breathing issues if inhaled or applied near the face

• Possible side effects include:
  

  • Skin irritation

  • Rashes or itching

  • Allergic contact dermatitis

Always do a patch test before using peppermint oil widely on your scalp or skin.

How to Use Peppermint Oil on Your Hair

If you're curious about trying peppermint oil as part of your hair care routine, here's how to do it safely:

• Dilute a few drops of peppermint essential oil in a tablespoon of carrier oil

• Massage gently into your scalp for 5–10 minutes

• Leave on for up to 20 minutes before washing out

• Repeat 1–2 times per week

You can also look for hair products infused with peppermint oil, such as shampoos, conditioners, or serums. These products often blend peppermint with other active ingredients and are formulated to minimize irritation.

Does Peppermint Shampoo Work?

One study suggests shampoos containing peppermint oil combined with other essential oils and traditional antidandruff ingredients may improve scalp health. This is likely due to:

• Antifungal effects, which can reduce dandruff and inflammation

• Menthol’s anti-inflammatory properties, which may soothe the scalp

That said, hair growth benefits from shampoo alone are unlikely unless clinically proven ingredients like minoxidil are included.

Alternatives with Proven Results

If you're dealing with significant hair loss, talk to a healthcare provider before relying on peppermint oil. FDA-approved treatments for hair loss include:

• Topical minoxidil (Rogaine)

• Oral finasteride (Propecia)

Other evidence-based options:

• Cortisone creams or injections, for inflammatory scalp conditions

• Phototherapy for autoimmune-related hair loss

• Antiandrogen medications (for hormonally driven hair loss)

• Iron supplements, if iron deficiency is present

• Hair transplants, for long-term restoration

Addressing the root cause of hair loss whether hormonal, nutritional, or autoimmune is key to choosing the most effective treatment.

The Bottom Line

Peppermint oil may offer a pleasant scalp sensation and has shown early promise in animal studies, but there’s no solid proof it promotes hair growth in humans. It’s not harmful when used properly and can be a refreshing addition to your hair care routine but it should not replace evidence-based treatments if you're dealing with hair loss.

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