Ingredient review
Menthyl Succinate
INCI: Menthyl Succinate
Menthyl Succinate is a gentle, synthetic cooling ingredient that provides a refreshing sensation without the strong minty smell or irritation potential of menthol.
In plain English
Menthyl Succinate is a lab-made ingredient that feels cool on your skin, like a gentle breeze, but without the strong minty smell or stinging that menthol can cause. It's often used in products like foot creams, after-sun lotions, or shaving creams to give a pleasant, refreshing feeling.
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 Succinate 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 Succinate.
- 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
Menthyl Succinate is a synthetic ester derived from menthol and succinic acid. It is designed to provide a cooling sensation on the skin without the strong odor or potential irritation associated with pure menthol.
How it works
When applied to the skin, Menthyl Succinate interacts with temperature-sensitive receptors (TRPM8) in the skin, tricking them into feeling a cooling sensation. Unlike menthol, it does not have a strong volatile odor and is less likely to cause stinging or irritation.
Pros
Gentle cooling
Provides a noticeable but mild cooling effect that is less likely to sting or irritate sensitive skin compared to menthol.
Low odor
Has little to no minty smell, making it ideal for unscented or lightly fragranced products where a cooling sensation is desired without altering the fragrance profile.
Cons and cautions
Milder effect
The cooling sensation is generally less intense and shorter-lasting than menthol, which may not satisfy users seeking a strong, long-lasting cool feeling.
Synthetic origin
As a lab-made ingredient, it may not appeal to consumers who prefer exclusively natural or plant-derived ingredients in their skincare.
Best for
- People who want a cooling sensation without strong minty smell
- Those with sensitive skin who find menthol irritating
- Users looking for a refreshing feel in foot or after-sun products
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to synthetic esters (rare)
- Those seeking very intense cooling (may prefer menthol)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Menthyl Succinate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, making it suitable for sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Research notes
Research on Menthyl Succinate is limited but consistent with its role as a cooling agent. Studies indicate it activates TRPM8 receptors similarly to menthol but with lower potency and irritation. It is widely used in cosmetic formulations with a good safety profile.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and other major markets. It is not a drug ingredient and is regulated as a cosmetic ingredient.
- Common uses
- Body lotions, Foot creams, After-sun products, Shaving creams, Lip balms
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental impact is generally low, but it is not biodegradable in all conditions. Standard cosmetic manufacturing practices apply.
Good to know
- Menthyl Succinate is often used in combination with other cooling agents to create a layered cooling effect.
- It is stable in most cosmetic formulations and does not require special storage conditions.
Common questions
What is Menthyl Succinate in beauty products?
Menthyl Succinate is a lab-made ingredient that feels cool on your skin, like a gentle breeze, but without the strong minty smell or stinging that menthol can cause. It's often used in products like foot creams, after-sun lotions, or shaving creams to give a pleasant, refreshing feeling.
What does Menthyl Succinate do in a beauty product?
When applied to the skin, Menthyl Succinate interacts with temperature-sensitive receptors (TRPM8) in the skin, tricking them into feeling a cooling sensation. Unlike menthol, it does not have a strong volatile odor and is less likely to cause stinging or irritation.
Is Menthyl Succinate safe for most people?
Menthyl Succinate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and sensitization potential, making it suitable for sensitive skin. No significant safety concerns have been reported in regulatory reviews.
Who should be careful with Menthyl Succinate?
Individuals with known allergies to synthetic esters (rare) Those seeking very intense cooling (may prefer menthol)
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.