Mints, due to their ability to hybridise easily, encompass numerous species. However, peppermint is the most renowned and has been the most utilised since ancient times. Its hydrosol is commonly used in skincare, particularly for its astringent properties. This article provides all the information you need to know about this ingredient.
Everything you need to know about peppermint hydrosol.
Summary
Published on October 4, 2024, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 4 min of reading
Themes:
Peppermint: botanical description, myths and legends.
Peppermint is a herbaceous plant, obtained after the spontaneous hybridisation of watermint and spearmint. With a rather invasive cultivation, it propagates through its vigorous underground rhizomes. Among the numerous varieties of mint, it is the richest in volatile aromatic molecules, which gives it its characteristic refreshing scent.
Mint is embedded in Greek mythology. According to legend, Hades, the God of the underworld and darkness, fell in love with the river nymph, Mintha, and made her his mistress. Hades' jealous wife trampled Mintha under her heel, transforming her into mint. Furthermore, this plant is an integral part of many ancient rituals; for instance, it was used in black magic to alleviate fevers.
How is peppermint hydrosol obtained?
Peppermint hydrosol is obtained through hydrodistillation. This technique involves mixing and heating mint leaves with water in a still, then collecting the water vapour in liquid form. The essential oil, less dense than the water used for extraction, floats on the surface and this is nothing other than the hydrosol. Originating from the same plant, the two fractions have similar properties but the hydrosol is less concentrated in active species than the essential oil because the aromatic essences are present in smaller quantities.
What are the benefits of peppermint hydrosol in cosmetics?
When applied topically, the peppermint hydrosol has a purifying and astringent effect. Due to its slightly acidic pH, it visibly tightens the pores. It also stimulates blood circulation, making it effective against diffuse redness or to soothe razor burn and post-hair removal irritation. Moreover, its immediate cooling effect relieves sunburn and reduces feelings of discomfort. Thanks to its purifying properties, it is also recommended for problematic skin and reduces imperfections. Thus, peppermint hydrosol is suitable for all skin types, particularly combination to oily skin, with enlarged pores and/or blemishes.
Are there any dangers or contraindications to its use?
Generally, hydrosols can be used without contraindications by children and pregnant women, unlike essential oils. However, peppermint hydrosol may contain terpenic ketones (menthone). In this case, its use is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as children under 3 years old.
Note : Our peppermint hydrosol does not contain menthone, therefore it does not have any contraindications for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children under 3 years old.
The peppermint hydrosol from Typology.
This treatment is obtained through distillation from peppermint leaves sourced from organic farming, grown and harvested in France. We advise you to apply it to the entire face in the morning and/or evening, using a cotton pad or directly with your fingers, before the serum and/or face cream.
Source:
FAUCON M. "Traité d'aromathérapie scientifique et médicale, les hydrolats" (2018).
