What is Mentha arvensis essential oil
L'Mentha arvensis essential oil is obtained by distilling the leaves of Mentha arvensis, wild mint. It belongs to the essential oil family and should be distinguished from peppermint: it is the species with the highest menthol content, the one from which menthol has traditionally been extracted.
Why it creates a cooling sensation
The menthol acts on skin receptors that respond to cold: the cooling sensation is not caused by an actual drop in temperature, but by activating those receptors. That's why the effect is felt immediately and lasts for a few minutes. At the same time, the feeling of freshness accompanies the massage and makes it more enjoyable.
What it's used for in body treatments
In LeLang formulas, it features in body treatments, where it works alongside the other essential oils in the blend. Like all essential oils, it is used at very low concentrations and always diluted in the formula, never applied pure to the skin.
Precautions
Its high menthol content calls for care: it is an ingredient for body treatments, not the face, and should be avoided on damaged skin and on young children. Anyone with very reactive skin should test it first on a small area.
On our blog, you'll find the guide to using essential oils in cosmetics.
Frequently asked questions
Why does mint feel cool on the skin?
Menthol activates the skin's cold receptors without actually lowering its temperature. That's why the effect is felt immediately and lasts a few minutes.
Can peppermint essential oil be used on the face?
No, because of its high menthol content, it's an ingredient for body care, not the face. It should also be avoided on damaged skin and on young children.
What is the difference between Mentha arvensis and peppermint?
Mentha arvensis, or field mint, is the species with the highest menthol content, the one from which menthol has traditionally been extracted.
Can pure L mint essential oil be applied?
No, like all essential oils, it should always be diluted in the formula and never applied pure to the skin. Those with very reactive skin should test it on a small area first.
The selection of ingredients is curated by Elisa Avalle, founder of LeLang and a dermocosmetics specialist. Each formula is created and developed in LeLang laboratories.
