Menthyl Lactate shows up in the world of raw materials as a specialty chemical that brings more than just a cool touch. People often find it in cosmetics and personal care because of its naturally derived structure. The compound’s backbone includes menthol and lactic acid, which give it unique sensory qualities. The structure forms through the esterification of lactic acid with menthol, producing a molecule that lets consumers experience a gentle, persistent cooling sensation. This sensation separates it from simple menthol, especially for applications in creams, lotions, and even oral care.
Look closely at its chemistry, and Menthyl Lactate presents the formula C13H24O3. Its molecular weight sits at 228.33 g/mol. The compound carries two main functional groups: an ester moiety and a cyclohexane ring. The way these groups link makes all the difference for solubility and sensory effects. In a chemical illustration, the menthyl group connects directly to the lactic acid, so the molecule stays relatively hydrophobic. Experiencing the physical substance, it appears as white to off-white flakes, crystals, or sometimes fine powder, depending on purity and manufacturer. Rarely does it shift to a liquid state under ambient conditions due to its melting point, which usually lands between 38 to 42°C.
Menthyl Lactate comes in several forms—solid flakes, powder, or crystalline shapes—each one meeting different routes in manufacturing, but all deliver a mild cooling effect that outlasts simple menthol. Density falls in the range of 1.03–1.07 g/cm³. It does not dissolve readily in water, but it does show good solubility in oils and alcohol-based solutions. This property creates flexibility for emulsion systems found in body washes, scalp lotions, or lip balms. The product is usually supplied in 25-kilogram drums or smaller packaging for specialty formulations.
Trade and logistics rely on clear standards, and Menthyl Lactate is identified by the HS Code 2918199090 under “Carboxylic acids and their derivatives.” Knowing the HS code speeds up customs processes and helps buyers confirm regulatory compliance for worldwide shipping. As a chemical raw material, it falls under the general safety handling categories. Storage demands dry, cool conditions, with ventilation and separation from oxidizing substances.
Product safety always ranks high in the chemical supply chain. Even though Menthyl Lactate stands out for its use in consumer products, proper handling makes a difference. Contact may cause mild skin or eye irritation; safety data sheets recommend gloves and goggles when transferring or loading. Menthyl Lactate has not drawn the same level of hazard labeling as some flavor and fragrance compounds. That said, storage away from food or drink reduces risk, especially in facilities handling large volumes. The substance is not classified as a dangerous good for transport under UN regulations, which means it doesn’t trigger the same precautions as flammables or corrosives. As with most solid chemicals, dust generation in closed spaces poses inhalation hazards, so dust collectors or respirators come in handy during bulk processing.
What drives companies to choose this material starts with consumer comfort and product feel. Menthyl Lactate offers a cooling sensation that lingers longer than raw menthol, all without the burn or irritation. That mildness attracts formulators who want a signature touch for brands—think toothpaste, aftershave, or anti-itch creams. It blends smoothly into liquid and semi-solid matrices, surviving high-shear mixing during the manufacturing process. Particle purity above 98% guarantees consistent performance and lowers the risk of off-notes.
Safety regulations stop short of restricting Menthyl Lactate in typical cosmetic concentrations, but the industry watches closely for environmental effects tied to surfactants and solvents in finished goods. As a biodegradable ester, Menthyl Lactate does not persist in soil or water the way halogenated compounds can. The raw material follows REACH and FDA guidelines for exposure and purity, supporting safe disposal along traditional waste lines. Health experts continue to monitor possible allergies or rare sensitivities—any formulation needs full disclosure for end-users. Personal experience in ingredient selection shows that team buy-in hinges on such transparency and keeping up with new toxicological studies.
The push to cut synthetic cooling agents often leads teams to Menthyl Lactate—but challenges show up in scale and supply stability. Sourcing high-purity lactic acid and natural menthol keeps costs in check and ensures traceability for global certifications. One practical approach brings suppliers closer to manufacturing plants to trim shipping costs and maintain batch consistency. Adopting real-time analytical monitoring, such as FTIR or HPLC during production, catches off-spec batches early. Companies moving toward greener supply chains benefit from exploring bioreactor-based menthol production, which helps address natural resource limitations. As supply and demand continue to evolve, partnerships between chemical producers and brand owners speed up the journey from plant to product shelf.
