The summer season is upon us, and while it’s a time to enjoy the sunshine, it’s also a time when many people experience the pain and discomfort of sunburn. Sunburn can be caused by overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and it can be painful, itchy, and even blistering in some cases.
Fortunately, there are several ways to treat sunburn, and one of the most effective is using peppermint oil. Peppermint oil has a cooling effect that can help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. In this article, we’ll explore the cooling benefits of peppermint oil for sunburn.
What is peppermint oil?
Peppermint oil is a type of essential oil that is extracted from the leaves of the peppermint plant (Mentha piperita). Peppermint has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy for various ailments, including digestive problems, headaches, and respiratory issues.

Peppermint oil contains menthol, a compound that has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin. When applied topically, menthol can help reduce inflammation, ease pain, and provide a refreshing sensation.
How does peppermint oil help soothe sunburns?
Sunburn is a type of inflammation that occurs when the skin is exposed to too much UV radiation. The skin becomes red, tender, and may even blister in severe cases. Peppermint oil can help soothe sunburns in several ways:
- Cooling effect
Peppermint oil has a cooling effect that can help reduce the heat and pain associated with sunburn. When applied to the skin, menthol activates cold-sensitive receptors, which triggers a sensation of coolness.
- Anti-inflammatory properties
Peppermint oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness, swelling, and inflammation caused by sunburn. When applied topically, peppermint oil can help calm the skin and reduce the production of inflammatory molecules.
- Analgesic properties
Peppermint oil has analgesic properties that can help ease the pain associated with sunburn. Menthol acts as a local anesthetic, which means it can numb the skin and reduce the sensation of pain.
- Antimicrobial properties
Peppermint oil has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent infections in sunburned skin. Sunburned skin is more vulnerable to bacterial and fungal infections, and peppermint oil can help protect the skin and prevent infections from developing.
How to use peppermint oil for sunburn
Peppermint oil can be used in various ways to soothe sunburns. Here are a few methods to try:
- Dilute with a carrier oil
Peppermint oil is very potent and should be diluted with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin. Some good carrier oils to use include coconut oil, olive oil, and almond oil.
To dilute peppermint oil, mix a few drops with a tablespoon of carrier oil. Apply the mixture to the sunburned skin and massage gently.
- Add to a cool bath
Adding peppermint oil to a cool bath can help soothe sunburned skin and provide relief from pain and inflammation. Fill a bathtub with cool water and add a few drops of peppermint oil. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes.
- Use a peppermint oil spray
Mix peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz the affected area for a refreshing and cooling effect. Be sure to shake the bottle well before each use.
- Make a cooling compress
To make a cooling compress, mix a few drops of peppermint oil with cool water in a bowl. Soak a clean cloth in the mixture and wring out excess water.