Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil
Cornmint oil
Genuinely relevant for some people, or depends on dose and pH.
Also written as: Cornmint Oil · Japanese Mint Oil · Field Mint Oil · Mentha Arvensis Oil
What it is
Mentha arvensis, or cornmint, yields an oil that is 70 to 90% menthol before dementholisation, making it the industrial source of most natural menthol. The remaining fraction, sold as dementholised cornmint oil, is still menthol-rich and is often used in place of true peppermint oil because it is cheaper. In face masks it produces a pronounced cooling effect.
What it does well
Delivers strong cooling at low inclusion levels
Its high menthol content means very little is needed for a noticeable effect. As with menthol itself, the cooling is a nerve sensation rather than a change in skin temperature.
Strong evidence
Worth knowing
Its high menthol content makes it a common cause of stinging
Cornmint oil is more menthol-heavy than peppermint oil and can sting or redden compromised skin. The tingling it produces is not evidence the mask is working.
Matters most toPeople with eczema, rosacea, dry skin or a recently exfoliated barrier.
Where the EU stands
No specific restriction
Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil is not itself named on the Annex III fragrance-allergen labelling list, which covers Mentha Piperita Oil (entry 361) and Mentha Viridis Leaf Oil (entry 362). Its menthol content must nonetheless be declared as Menthol, Annex III entry 338, above 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off products.
