Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil Ingredient Allergy Safety Information

What is it?

Peppermint oil is used as a fragrance in personal care products and as a flavoring in foods.

How can I avoid it?

Skin contact with peppermint oil is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing peppermint

oil should result in improvement and/or resolution of your dermatitis. By law, all products made in the U.S. for topical use have the

ingredients listed either on the product package or the box that contains it, so check the labeling of your skincare products for this

ingredient. If there is not enough information, ask your pharmacist or retailer, or contact the company directly. At work, request a

Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to help identify potential sources of exposure.

The avoidance of fragrances and flavoring agents such as peppermint oil can be difficult, since so many everyday products contain

these substances. Individuals allergic to peppermint oil often have sensitivity to other fragrances and flavorings, so it is recommended

that you should use only fragrance-free cosmetic and household products. “Unscented” products may contain low levels of a fragrance

to cover up an undesirable odor, so these should also be avoided. Products labeled as “hypoallergenic” do not assure that the product

is truly free of fragrance.

Direct contact with foods or products containing peppermint oil may cause symptoms, including burning, irritation, and redness.

Direct contact may occur on the skin, lips, or mouth. Although it is rare, since some fragrances are also flavors, foods that contain

peppermint oil can cause flare-ups of dermatitis in fragrance-sensitive individuals. If your healthcare provider has diagnosed you

with oral or lip allergies to fragrances or flavorings, you should avoid foods prepared with peppermint oil.

Uses:

Anesthetics
Antiseptics
Creams, ointments, solutions
Foot and other powders
Nasal decongestants
Herbal remedies, including traditional Chinese medications, teas, and liquid extracts
Wound dressings
Dietary supplements

Air fresheners/Aromatherapy/Potpourri
Cleaning products/Soaps/Detergents (A preferred household cleaner for fragrance-allergic individuals is dilute white vinegar.)
Furniture polish
Laundry care (detergent, softeners)