Menthyl lactate’s story starts in the evolving world of cosmetic chemistry. It popped up as product developers hunted for cooling agents that wouldn’t sting or fade quickly. Menthol had a reputation for that signature icy jolt, but plenty of people found it too harsh. So, companies began blending menthol with lactic acid. This fusion was more than about comfort—it marked a step away from the hit-or-miss approach of raw menthol crystals. By the late 20th century, research tilted toward improving skin feel and masking unwanted odors. Industrial labs in Japan seemed to spot the commercial value faster than Western markets. Their tweaks to menthyl lactate’s synthesis made large-scale production cheaper and more stable, which led the way for the modern personal care boom we see now.
Scan the back of any toothpaste, aftershave, or “cooling” lotion, and menthyl lactate probably pops up. It brings a gentle cooling effect without the bite of menthol, which opens doors for sensitive-skin products and oral care lines. Its scent lands close to clean mint, though softened. In showers, mouthwashes, and even wound gels, this compound pulls double duty—giving sensory lift and gentle relief. Some brands also lean into claims about redness reduction or post-shave relief, relying on menthyl lactate as a substitute for menthol in formulas where comfort takes priority over brute force.
In the lab, menthyl lactate shows up white and flaky or as a chunky powder, and it resists dissolving in water. Structurally, the molecule sits as an ester, formed from menthol and lactic acid. This shape locks in cooling properties while nudging aside menthol’s volatility, which keeps it from evaporating like peppermint oil. It melts at around body temperature, a clever trait that lets creams and balms deliver their “cool” right on the skin, not just in the jar. Chemists note its stability at normal room temp, but store it wrong—warm, damp, or in open air—and it starts breaking down.
Every batch of menthyl lactate comes with specs that matter to downstream users. Purity stays above 98% in most commercial forms, and you’ll see suppliers break down contaminants in the low single-digit percentages. Safety info—storage temps, handling notes, and standard lab warnings—usually lands on the cert sheet. For labeling, manufacturers point to recognized names, regulatory clearances, and ingredient declarations demanded by the EU, FDA, and other watchdogs. Forward-facing product literature sticks to INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) or simply “menthyl lactate,” with Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry numbers for traceability.
To make menthyl lactate, processes start by mixing natural or synthesized menthol with lactic acid. Labs drive the esterification reaction at controlled temperature, with water kept out to push it to completion. Purification steps follow—usually involving solvents to strip away leftover acids and reactants, and vacuum-drying to get the dry, pure ester. Some processing plants recirculate solvents to cut waste, which helps both the environment and bottom line. In my own work, watching chemists balance time, temperature, and solvent use hammered home that small changes in synthesis create big headaches downstream.
Beyond the base esterification, chemists tweak menthyl lactate’s properties with hydrogenation, saponification, or by grafting on extra side chains. For example, shifting its solubility profile lets manufacturers plug it into water-heavy formulas that plain menthyl lactate would cloud. Additives—sometimes antioxidants, UV stabilizers, or viscosity modifiers—get paired to stretch out shelf life or regulate cooling strength. These lab moves avoid banned ingredients while stretching product versatility.
Walk into a chemical supply shop and find menthyl lactate bottled under several pseudonyms: N-menthyl lactate, l-menthyl lactate, and racemic menthyl lactate, depending on the stereochemistry in question. Consumer brands favor softer names: “coolact 10,” “Frescolat ML,” and “Lactomenthyl.” Each version might carry subtle tweaks for performance, but the backbone chemical structure stays constant. International sellers use the name “menthyl 2-hydroxypropanoate” in paperwork for customs or regulatory submission.
Handling menthyl lactate in bulk calls for gloves, goggles, and dust control—not because it’s deadly but for comfort and respiratory protection. The European Chemicals Agency rates it as low-risk for irritation, so over-the-counter skin creams rarely trigger warnings, but manufacturers must keep formulas within safe use levels. The American Contact Dermatitis Society has flagged the menthol family as potential sensitizers, but real-world complaints remain low compared to traditional menthol. Factories operate under REACH and ISO 22716, which cover traceability, risk assessment, and documentation.
You’ll see menthyl lactate lifting products across personal care. Toothpaste leans on it to bring freshness without overkill burn. Razor-burn creams, men’s grooming lines, and foot sprays choose it for lasting cool that sidesteps the mild numbing menthol inflicts. Medicated topical rubs draw on that same “just enough” tingle for muscle relief formulas targeting sensitive types or chronic users. Outside the bathroom, flavorists slip menthyl lactate into chewing gum and mint candies, taking advantage of its stability and less aggressive flavor profile.
R&D teams keep poking at menthyl lactate, trying to push cooling further without the pain trigger. Some newer work focuses on microencapsulation—trapping molecules in microspheres for a slow-release effect. Patent filings hint at new blends with botanicals to tweak the cooling curve or tie it to anti-inflammatory effects. My own circles in product development argue about balancing “fresh” feel with consumer demand for short ingredient lists—formulators at natural brands want minimal processing, which drives new synthesis tricks and sourcing efforts. Competitive manufacturers push for “greener” bio-based syntheses to win over the sustainability crowd.
Years of safety checks put menthyl lactate squarely in the low-toxicity category for humans when used in personal care. Standard patch test studies report rare cases of skin irritation, mostly among those already sensitive to menthol or its relatives. Oral tests in rodents suggest low acute toxicity at gram-per-kilogram doses, far above topical human exposures. Regulatory agencies set conservative limits, but side effects stay rare in the wild. In environmental safety reviews, breakdown products follow natural metabolic paths with little risk of bioaccumulation under typical use patterns, though industrial spills would still need close cleanup protocols.
Menthol alternatives keep making headlines as brands scramble to set products apart and duck regulatory pushback on allergens. Menthyl lactate’s milder, more controlled effect aligns well with ongoing shifts toward comfort-driven, sensitive-skin offerings. Next-gen production aims for lower energy inputs and renewable feedstocks, which win points with investors and green-minded shoppers. Up-and-coming research draws connections between menthyl lactate and emerging needs—relief for aging skin, cooling for athletes or workers in hot climates, and even as a sensory trick in food-and-beverage applications. By betting on sustainable sourcing and innovative delivery, ingredient suppliers carve out new markets while staying in line with tightening safety rules worldwide.
Growing up with sensitive skin, I always searched for products that delivered soothing relief without stinging or leaving my face red. Menthyl lactate changed the game for me. Found in face washes, aftershaves, shampoos, and even cooling pain gels, menthyl lactate does more than just “refresh.” Unlike plain menthol, it offers a gentle, long-lasting cooling without harshness. That means fewer tears during shampooing, less redness after shaving, and a pleasant tingle rather than a burning sensation.
European and American beauty brands love menthyl lactate for its ability to smooth out strong products. It cools like menthol, but with less chance of irritation. When I tested minty lotions, some left my skin raw, but those with menthyl lactate worked gently. Toothpaste makers found similar results after consumers complained about that sharp mint bite. Natural deodorants and foot sprays use menthyl lactate to mask odor while leaving a clean feel.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel labeled menthyl lactate as safe for most skin types when used in recommended concentrations. At levels below 2%, the risk of redness and dryness stays low, making it a favorite among dermatologists for patients who react badly to alcohols and high-menthol blends. The American Academy of Dermatology published guidance noting menthyl lactate’s favorable track record, especially in products meant for children and people with eczema.
Years ago, I used an aftershave filled with menthol. It burned so much that I gave up shaving cream altogether. I eventually returned with products built around menthyl lactate. The cooling stayed, but the sting disappeared. Now, I turn to these formulas after running, shaving, and long days in hot climates. They take the edge off sun-exposed skin and help with the itch from bug bites. In my family, even the kids’ calamine gels include a small dose of menthyl lactate for relief without the fuss.
The applications go past skincare. Occupational therapists recommend menthyl lactate gels for joint pain since the long-lasting cooling helps with swelling. Dentists add it to mouthwashes for patients with sensitive gums. Sports brands rely on it because oil-based menthol can stain fabric, while menthyl lactate won’t. The ingredient also works for people wanting a vegan alternative to lanolin or beeswax-based formulas.
Product safety relies on clear labeling. Some brands push “cooling power” but skip information about concentration. Consumers should look for complete ingredient lists and do a small patch test. Dermatologists encourage people with allergies or compromised skin barriers to check in before switching to new products. Regulatory bodies, including the FDA, regularly review data and update usage recommendations.
Menthyl lactate’s rise in the personal care world didn’t happen by accident. Companies listened to real complaints about irritation, found safer alternatives, and proved their benefits with real studies. As more people want gentle, effective skincare, menthyl lactate keeps finding its way into new lotions, shampoos, gels, and beyond. The cooling comfort it brings isn’t a fad—it's the answer many sensitive skin types have been waiting for.
Menthyl lactate offers that cool, fresh feeling in everything from aftershave to moisturizers, but the real question many people have comes down to its safety. It helps soothe skin thanks to its direct link to menthol, but isn’t as aggressive or tingly. Skin care fans see it pop up on many ingredient lists, often billed as a less irritating alternative to pure menthol.
Menthyl lactate forms when menthol links up with lactic acid. Lactic acid itself helps skin shed dead cells, while menthol triggers those cooling nerves. Combining the two creates a compound that outlasts plain menthol without making skin feel raw or over-stimulated. In the real world, that usually means menthyl lactate brings a gentle, slow-release chill that feels nice on stressed or overheated skin.
Menthyl lactate stands out for offering less risk of irritation at usual concentrations. Regulatory agencies such as the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel have reviewed it for standard cosmetic use. Results show it works well within safety limits when customers stick to regular amounts. In research settings, concentrations of up to 1% for creams and lotions and even higher levels in rinse-off products haven’t set off many alarm bells for most users. Reports of severe reactions remain rare.
Allergic reactions still happen for some, but nearly every safe cosmetic ingredient produces occasional complaints. More common issues show up when menthyl lactate gets used in heavy doses or on especially sensitive skin, like broken or sunburned areas. At home, paying attention to how skin feels and patch testing new products helps head off most trouble. Dermatologists keep seeing menthyl lactate trigger fewer flare-ups than straight menthol, making it a favorite for products meant for calmer, gentler results.
That signature cooling impact seduces so many people who dream of relief from summer stickiness or post-workout redness. For some, it even helps distract from things like itchy bug bites or mild razor burn. The cooling doesn’t go overboard, which benefits users who don’t enjoy the blasting sensation pure menthol dumps on their skin.
Still, menthyl lactate shares the downside of nearly all fragrance-adjacent compounds. Sensitive or allergy-prone people sometimes notice tingling or rashes—especially if they combine several scented or active products. Kids’ skin and folks dealing with eczema or open wounds face extra risk. Creams and gels with menthyl lactate stall burning fast in most adults, but using them on inflamed or damaged skin stings (not in a good way).
More brands highlight transparency, listing menthyl lactate clearly on packaging and online details. Responsible manufacturers back up claims about concentration, pairing menthyl lactate with skin-protecting ingredients such as ceramides and panthenol. Customer reviews and dermatology input matter, but the final word comes from personal experience. No product earns universal praise or triggers zero reactions.
Anyone with a long track record of skin reactions or known menthol sensitivity does best steering clear or doing some real-world patch-testing on a small area before slathering cool gels or creams everywhere. Otherwise, most people with healthy skin can enjoy the cooling benefits of menthyl lactate without worry, especially if they check ingredient lists and use new items without mixing too many testers at once.
There’s something about that cool, tingly feeling you get after applying a fresh lotion or an aftershave gel. It wakes up tired skin, creates a sense of relief, and makes you feel a little more put together. In my experience, products that deliver this kind of sensory satisfaction always have an edge, especially in the warmer months or after physical activity. Menthyl lactate, derived from menthol and lactic acid, gives that gentle cooling effect without being too harsh or overwhelming.
Menthyl lactate offers a smoother experience than straight menthol. Menthol can make skin feel almost painfully icy, especially if you have sensitive skin. Manufacturers use menthyl lactate because it releases its cooling touch much more gradually. Unlike menthol, which can irritate and create a burning after-feel, menthyl lactate avoids that pitfall. This difference matters a lot for daily skincare routines, as nobody wants to compromise comfort for freshness.
In facial cleansers, foot creams, and even some medicated patches, menthyl lactate goes a step further than just feeling nice. The ingredient can trick the skin’s cold receptors, sending signals to the brain that create a cooling effect without dropping actual skin temperature. For people prone to redness, itch, or mild discomfort, this can offer real relief. As a runner, I reach for cooling foot balms after a tough workout, not only for the sensory reward but for their ability to calm inflammation without leaving my skin dry or raw.
Regulatory bodies such as the European Commission and the US Food and Drug Administration have approved menthyl lactate for cosmetic use. Brands benefit, as customers trust products with ingredients that carry a positive safety profile. Dermatologists often recommend it for folks who find pure menthol too aggressive. There’s also no strong lingering odor, which used to be a drawback of classic menthol products.
Some users still report a bit of tingling if they apply a large amount or use it on broken skin, so cosmetic chemists recommend patch tests for those with extra sensitivity. Balance means everything—proper concentration keeps the tingling pleasant instead of bothersome. Formulators can blend menthyl lactate with emollients and hydrating agents so products keep working for more people.
Coolants are getting smarter. Traditional mint oils often caused issues for people prone to irritation, so menthyl lactate opened new doors in product development. Its compatibility with a range of skincare ingredients lets brands design custom textures and multisensory experiences. I’ve noticed how more foot masks, eye gels, and sunscreens now feature menthyl lactate. Even makeup primers are starting to pick up on the trend, targeting that “just woke up refreshed” vibe people love.
Continued research will likely refine how and where menthyl lactate fits best. Lab tests show that combining it with plant oils or active extracts can help the skin feel even better, potentially reducing the need for synthetic additives. There’s also a move toward more transparent labeling—people want to know what cools their skin and why. This push from informed shoppers leads brands to publish study results and share ingredient stories, building stronger relationships and more effective skin solutions.
Spend a few minutes scanning the ingredient lists of lotions, aftershaves, or even lip balms and you'll likely spot menthyl lactate. This stuff shows up across products that promise a cooling, refreshing feel. For decades, companies favored menthol for that icy touch, but sometimes menthol burns or irritates. Menthyl lactate offers a gentler sensation, which sounds ideal. People get excited about that, but what about any drawbacks?
The first time I tried a lotion with menthyl lactate, my forearms felt cool without that sting menthol can cause. Most research supports this experience. Scientists have found the ingredient delivers a fresh, tingly feeling with less chance of unpleasant reactions compared to plain menthol. It sounds like a win, but the story doesn’t end with sensation alone.
Redness, stinging, and itching rarely turn up in healthy folks, but people with sensitive skin often react more easily. The concentration and how often someone uses it start to matter. Products that load on too much menthyl lactate can tip the scales from pleasant to prickly, especially if put on broken or sunburned skin. In my circle, a few friends with eczema report that some gels make them itch after a few minutes.
Clinical patch tests show most users tolerate menthyl lactate, even in higher concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel classed it as safe for most skin types. Still, they suggested not going overboard, especially near the eyes or mucous membranes. The reason is simple: eyes and lips stay delicate and might not handle the cooling chemical as well as tough forearms or legs.
Many brands rely heavily on European Union guidance, since the EU carries out strict safety screening. They limit menthyl lactate in leave-on face products, especially for kids. I’ve seen research testing up to 4% concentration in over-the-counter products, but the vast majority stick around 0.2% to 2%. In my experience, anything above 2% starts feeling less refreshing and more alarming—nose runs, eyes water, and skin tingles harshly.
Patch testing new products always pays off, especially for anyone prone to irritation. Use a dab on an inner arm and wait a day. If nothing happens, chances are the skin tolerates it. If there’s heat, tingling that grows, or visible redness, best to pass. Products with extra fragrances or alcohol often amplify reaction risks, and menthyl lactate can add to that mix.
Folks with skin diseases, allergies, or a history of flare-ups should talk to doctors before slathering on anything with extra coolants. Care teams keep up with reports about side effects, so they might point toward better choices. A brand willing to share its full ingredient list builds more trust—no hidden chemicals means users stay in the loop about what’s touching their skin.
Companies see demand for tingly, refreshing products, but cutting corners on testing sometimes brings complaints. Consumers who insist on transparency, ask for full ingredient lists, and check certifications put pressure on companies to keep things safe. As with any product, common sense and some self-knowledge go a long way. Staying aware of skin health, reading reviews, and approaching trends with a bit of caution keeps bathrooms stocked with products that feel good and cause fewer regrets.
Anyone who has ever used a minty personal care product has probably noticed the cooling effect these ingredients add. Plenty of people assume menthol and menthyl lactate are just two names for the same thing. More often than not, companies even market both as cooling agents in everything from toothpaste to skin creams. Still, they’re not identical twins.
Menthol comes from peppermint oil. It’s been part of familiar ointments and cough drops for ages, providing that fresh, tingling sensation that wakes up the senses. Menthyl lactate, on the other hand, takes things further. It’s created by combining menthol with lactic acid. Manufacturers love it because it lasts longer and feels a lot gentler, especially on sensitive skin. That means less risk of the strong, sometimes stingy feeling you get with pure menthol.
Ask anyone who has rubbed a little menthol ointment on their chest or used an old-school lip balm, and they’ll mention an icy blast that doesn’t quit. That’s menthol’s signature. Its instant punch clears the nasal passages and brings a chilly sensation that can border on overwhelming, especially for kids or people with delicate skin.
But overdoing it can bring irritation or even a burning feeling. Menthol itself can be a skin sensitizer. The intense tingle may suit muscle rubs, but it doesn’t always play nicely in cosmetics or leave-on facial products. The Food and Drug Administration keeps a close eye on concentrations in topical items. Rubbing pure menthol on your skin in large amounts or using it in strong percentages almost guarantees discomfort for many people.
Menthyl lactate steps in as a smoother operator. By tweaking menthol’s structure, chemists have worked out how to keep the chill while softening the edge. It stays active longer, so creams or lotions with menthyl lactate give a sustained coolness instead of a flash-in-the-pan knockout. It feels less harsh and rarely triggers redness or stinging. That’s a win for folks looking for a subtle, lasting freshness.
Think of menthyl lactate like coffee with cream instead of espresso. The same caffeine kick, just not as aggressive on the palate. That translates into wider appeal. Oral care products benefit because nobody wants the roof of their mouth on fire. Shampoos and sunscreens also get a cooling boost without the risk of eye-watering discomfort in the shower or on a sunny afternoon.
For consumers, understanding the differences helps make informed choices. Plenty of people have tried a deodorant, patch, or aftershave and regretted the harshness. Others find “cooling” marketing labels misleading when one product tingles and another soothes. The best option depends on skin type and personal preference.
The cosmetics industry keeps searching for safe, pleasant ways to deliver sensory benefits. Today’s regulations compel brands to make careful ingredient decisions. Menthol will stick around due to tradition and effectiveness, but menthyl lactate is winning ground in products meant for daily use or sensitive skin. Read labels, notice how your skin responds, and don’t be afraid to ask brands for more information. Your comfort and safety come from knowledge, not just packaging hype.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | (R)-2-Hydroxypropanoic acid (1R,2S,5R)-5-methyl-2-(propan-2-yl)cyclohexyl ester |
| Other names |
l-menthyl lactate menthyl 2-hydroxypropanoate menthol lactate lauryl lactate menthyl ester 3-p-menthyl-1-yl propanoic acid l-menthol lactic acid ester |
| Pronunciation | /ˈmen.θɪl ˈlæk.teɪt/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 592-46-1 |
| Beilstein Reference | 1867533 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:6876 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL3187882 |
| ChemSpider | 187538 |
| DrugBank | DB11248 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 14b4ffbf-6fff-4042-bbab-88cf2a223128 |
| EC Number | EC 245-366-4 |
| Gmelin Reference | 113393 |
| KEGG | C16760 |
| MeSH | D000599 |
| PubChem CID | 109185 |
| RTECS number | OJ8881000 |
| UNII | 56L4246TWD |
| UN number | UN1993 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C13H24O3 |
| Molar mass | Molar mass: 200.31 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Odor | mild mentholic |
| Density | 1.01 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Slightly soluble |
| log P | 1.8 |
| Vapor pressure | <0.01 mmHg (@ 25°C) |
| Acidity (pKa) | 15.07 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 8.74 |
| Magnetic susceptibility (χ) | -7.4×10⁻⁶ |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.451 |
| Viscosity | Viscous liquid |
| Dipole moment | 2.62 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 405.7 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | -763.7 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | D04AX |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Causes serious eye irritation. |
| GHS labelling | GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS07 |
| Signal word | No signal word |
| Hazard statements | H315: Causes skin irritation. H319: Causes serious eye irritation. |
| Precautionary statements | May cause eye irritation. |
| Flash point | Flash point: >100°C |
| Autoignition temperature | 175 °C |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): >5000 mg/kg (rat, oral) |
| NIOSH | Not Listed |
| PEL (Permissible) | 0.1 |
| REL (Recommended) | 0.2-1% |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Menthol Lactic acid Menthyl acetate Ethyl lactate Menthyl ether Isopropyl myristate |
