We chew peppermint gum on the regular, brush our teeth with peppermint toothpaste and sip peppermint tea for an upset stomach. It’s kind of a jack of all trades, but can peppermint oil also stimulate hair growth? Short answer: Maybe. From the hair benefits to the potential side effects, here’s everything you need to know about using peppermint oil for hair growth—plus, six other natural oils to consider.
We Ask a Dermatologist: Does Peppermint Oil Help with Hair Growth?
Short answer: Maybe
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Published Aug 17, 2024
Sofia Kraushaar for PureWow
Meet the Expert
Dr. Kseniya Kobets is a board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in Manhattan and Westchester, New York. Dr. Kobets studied at Yale University School of Medicine before completing her medical internship at Yale New Haven Hospital and her dermatology residency at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Kobets also completed a yearlong ASDS accredited cosmetic surgery fellowship at University of Pittsburgh's Cosmetic Surgery and Skin Health Center.
What Is Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint itself is an aromatic herb in the mint family. Peppermint oil can be extracted from the leaves of the peppermint plant (see that process here) and is used in tons of different ways. Peppermint, in general is most notable for its taste, smell and cooling sensation, which are all thanks to a compound called menthol.
What Are the Benefits of Peppermint Oil?
According to Dr. Kobets, "Peppermint (aka mentha piperita) extract has long been known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal and antioxidant functions."
Can Peppermint Oil Stimulate Hair Growth?
While there hasn’t been enough research to say whether it can aid in hair growth for sure, there have been a few promising studies. One 2014 Korean study using mice found that peppermint oil led to more hair growth than minoxidil, a hair-growth commonly known as Rogaine that’s approved by the FDA. "This study showed that peppermint oil possibly increased the growth phase (anagen) of the hair cycle by raising blood supply at the roots and providing antioxidant activity," says Dr. Kobets.
Beyond potentially helping with hair growth, the oil can also be beneficial if your hair is on the greasier side. Why? It can help cleanse and clarify hair without stripping it of its natural oils, and balances your scalp's production of sebum.
How Do You Use Peppermint Oil for Hair Loss?
"I often recommend buying a pre-blended oil that contains peppermint oil, as well as other essential oils that can aid in hair growth like rosemary oil, grapeseed oil and castor oil," shares Dr. Kobets. (She's a fan of Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Blend.)
Are There Any Side Effects to Using Peppermint Oil?
This comes down to the type of peppermint oil you’re using. Undiluted versions (like most essential oils) can be super harsh on your skin and cause a burning sensation. If you’re working with undiluted peppermint oil, dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil, olive oil, argan oil or avocado oil to protect your skin. Also avoid getting essential oils in your eyes, and never consume undiluted essential oils.
Sofia Kraushaar
What Other Oils Can You Use in Your Hair?
1. Black Seed Oil
Also referred to as black cumin or nigella sativa, black seed oil is thought to naturally restore hair growth in thinning areas thanks to its high concentration of thymoquinone, a powerful antihistamine. Yep, antihistamines are often prescribed to alopecia patients to help regrow hair, and get this, it’s actually an essential oil. That means it’s not thick like olive or coconut oil, and it has added therapeutic benefits. It also means that 100 percent pure, unrefined and cold-pressed black seed oil has to be diluted in another carrier oil (such as coconut or olive), because it’s too potent on its own. And when diluted, it can be used directly on the scalp to reduce inflammation, stimulate hair growth and reduce flakiness and sensitivity. However, even if you don’t have any scalp conditions, it helps to make hair healthy, soft, hydrated and shiny with consistent use. Here’s everything you need to know about using black seed oil for hair growth.
2. Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is derived from, well, grapes. It’s mostly used for wine or as a replacement for vegetable oil in cooking, but most recently it has become a staple in the beauty community. At first glance, grapeseed oil is odorless, weightless and boasts a clear finish that works for any hair type. Can it make your hair grow faster? Yes and no. A Japanese study tested this theory on mice, but there aren’t many human studies that indicate that grapeseed oil helps with hair growth. However, the components found in the oil suggest that it might be a possibility. “Grapeseed oil has the potential to aid in healthier hair overall,” says Ebony Clark-Bomani, master cosmetologist & product educator for The Mane Choice. She highlighted that the oil contains antioxidants and omega-6 fatty acids that have been shown to boost hair growth. Key ingredients like linoleic acid, polyphenols, oligomeric proanthocyanidins (aka OPCS) and vitamin E stimulate circulation, improve elasticity and repair collagen. Learn more about using grapeseed oil for hair growth here.
3. Castor Oil
Because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties, castor oil is often used as a treatment for hair conditions like dryness and dandruff. And as Dr. Solomon previously told us, while the evidence surrounding castor oil for hair growth is lacking, it can "enhance and increase the absorption and effectiveness of other products," which can in turn provide "fertile ground" for hair to grow. So to be crystal clear, castor oil does not cause new hair growth on its own. However, incorporating it into your routine can help create a healthier environment for hair to grow.
4. Olive Oil
Although there’s no scientific proof that olive oil can boost hair growth, a 2015 study showed that oils like olive, coconut or jojoba can play an important role in protecting hair from damage and reducing scalp build up. The omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants found in olive oil in particular have been proven to help split ends, soften and strengthen hair, improve dullness and prevent breakage.
5. Coconut Oil
From removing makeup to preserving eggs, coconut oil can be adapted to do pretty much anything. So it should be no surprise that it’s the go-to natural beauty alternative, especially for hair. When your store-bought products just won’t do, try mixing up your own homemade hair mask instead to combat those issues—yes, frizz and dryness, we’re looking at you. Coconut oil’s benefits can solve just about any hair problem. Studies show that the oil has antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties to treat a variety of common concerns. For example, the lauric acid found in coconut oil is a triple threat. It works to moisturize dry areas, support hair growth and reduce protein loss due to coloring, bleaching or using heat tools overtime. Aside from the fatty acids, the oil is rich in vitamins to help smooth, nourish and get rid of excess oil in your hair.
6. Tea Tree Oil
Like many other essential oils, tea tree has been used for medicinal purposes in the Eastern world for hundreds of years. Also known as melaleuca oil, it was originally used by the aboriginal people of Australia who derived it from the leaves of the (quite pretty) flowering Australian tea tree via steaming, according to the Mayo Clinic. But you probably know it as that intriguing, trendy ingredient popping up in all of your favorite hair care products. While the Mayo Clinic points out that tea tree oil may be effective at treating acne, relieving symptoms of athlete’s foot and getting rid of lice (yikes), we’re here for its more general, everyday hair care benefits. “Its main property is that [tea tree oil] effectively helps to fight bacteria and fungus,” says Dr. Jenelle Kim, an expert in Chinese medicine and the founder and formulator of JBK Wellness Labs in San Diego. “It is a strong, natural ingredient that is great for sensitive skin and scalp. The scalp is very sensitive and is vulnerable to skin imbalances, itchiness and dandruff—which are usually caused by minor fungal infections.”
Bottom Line
Our hair craves oil in order to keep it healthy and balanced. And natural oils contain a combination of vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants which can help strengthen and moisturize our hair. While there’s no guarantee that peppermint oil will aid in hair growth, the other potential hair benefits and relative lack of side effects might make it worth a try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Apply Peppermint Oil Directly to My Scalp?
Yes, but you should dilute the peppermint oil first by adding just a few drops of it to a carrier oil (i.e., argan or avocado oil) or directly into your shampoo because it's too potent on its own. Once diluted, it can be used directly on the scalp to reduce inflammation, stimulate hair growth and reduce flakiness and sensitivity.
Is Rosemary Oil Better for Hair Growth?
"Both rosemary oil and peppermint oil have been shown to help with hair growth, which is why I like to recommend a combination of these oils to my patients," says Dr. Kobets.
What Happens If You Put Peppermint Oil on Your Skin?
Again, peppermint oil should be safe to use on the skin and on the scalp once it's been diluted. As always, Dr. Kobets advises doing a patch test on a small area (i.e., along your inner arm) to make sure you don't have any reactions to the ingredient before applying it all over.
How Long Should I Leave Peppermint Oil in My Hair?
"Depending on your lifestyle and what you have planned for the day, you can apply the peppermint oil blend to your scalp and leave it in for four to six hours before washing it out," says Dr. Kobets. "Alternatively, you can leave it in overnight and then wash it out in the morning if you have very dry scalp," she adds.
