Ingredient review
Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate
INCI: Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate
A synthetic cooling agent that provides a long-lasting, non-minty cooling feel, ideal for after-sun or refreshing skincare products.
In plain English
Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate is a lab-made ingredient that tricks your skin into feeling cool. Unlike menthol, it doesn't have a strong minty smell or evaporate quickly, so the cooling effect lasts longer. It works by interacting with the same receptors in your skin that sense cold, making you feel refreshed without actually lowering your skin's temperature.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic compound derived from menthol and oxalic acid, designed to provide a sustained cooling sensation on the skin without the volatility or strong odor of natural menthol.
How it works
It activates the TRPM8 receptor (the same cold-sensing receptor that menthol triggers) in the skin's nerve endings. This sends a signal to the brain that feels like cooling, even though no heat is actually removed from the skin. The effect can last for 30 minutes to several hours depending on the formulation.
Pros
Long-lasting cooling
Provides a cooling sensation that can last for hours, much longer than menthol, without the need for reapplication.
No strong odor
Unlike menthol or peppermint oil, this ingredient has very little scent, making it suitable for fragrance-free or lightly scented products.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
It is a lab-made compound, which may not appeal to consumers seeking exclusively natural or plant-derived ingredients.
Possible tingling
At higher concentrations, some people may experience a prickly or intense cooling sensation that can be uncomfortable rather than pleasant.
Best for
- People looking for a refreshing, cooling feel in their skincare routine
- Those who want a cooling effect without the strong scent of mint or menthol
Use caution if
- Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin, as the cooling sensation may feel uncomfortable or irritating
Usage tips
Safety summary
Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, though a small percentage of users may experience temporary tingling or discomfort. It is not known to be comedogenic.
Research notes
Studies show that Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate effectively activates the TRPM8 cold receptor with a longer duration than menthol. Human patch tests indicate low irritation potential. Most evidence comes from manufacturer data and cosmetic safety reviews rather than independent clinical trials.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. It is not a drug ingredient and is regulated as a cosmetic sensory modifier.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Sunscreens, After-sun products, Foot creams, Shaving products, Body lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental fate is not as well studied as natural alternatives. It is not known to be bioaccumulative, but specific ecotoxicity data is limited.
Good to know
- Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate is often used in combination with other cooling agents like menthol to create a layered cooling experience.
- It is heat-stable and works well in both leave-on and rinse-off products.
Common questions
What is Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate in beauty products?
Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate is a lab-made ingredient that tricks your skin into feeling cool. Unlike menthol, it doesn't have a strong minty smell or evaporate quickly, so the cooling effect lasts longer. It works by interacting with the same receptors in your skin that sense cold, making you feel refreshed without actually lowering your skin's temperature.
What does Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate do in a beauty product?
It activates the TRPM8 receptor (the same cold-sensing receptor that menthol triggers) in the skin's nerve endings. This sends a signal to the brain that feels like cooling, even though no heat is actually removed from the skin. The effect can last for 30 minutes to several hours depending on the formulation.
Is Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate safe for most people?
Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, though a small percentage of users may experience temporary tingling or discomfort. It is not known to be comedogenic.
Who should be careful with Menthyl Ethylamido Oxalate?
Individuals with very sensitive or reactive skin, as the cooling sensation may feel uncomfortable or irritating
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.