Are menthol and camphor in warming balms safe?

Menthol and camphor — what are they and where do they come from?

Menthol (INCI: Menthol) is an organic chemical compound naturally present in the essential oils of peppermint (Mentha piperita). Camphor (INCI: Camphor) comes from the camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora), although in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries it is also produced synthetically. Both ingredients have been used for centuries in folk medicine and pharmaceutical preparations for their properties.

In warming balms and massage products they serve several functions:

• Menthol — produces a cooling sensation by activating the TRPM8 receptors (cold/menthol receptors) and then, through a contrast effect, a sensation of warmth. It has a local anaesthetic and anti-itch action.
• Camphor — stimulates the heat receptors (TRPV1) and the cold receptors (TRPM8), creating a simultaneous sensation of warmth and freshness. It has analgesic, local anaesthetic and mild anti-inflammatory properties.

EU regulations on menthol and camphor

Both menthol and camphor are subject to the provisions of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. Camphor appears in Annex III (substances permitted with restrictions):

• Camphor is permitted in lip products up to 0.08%
• In other cosmetic products (leave-on) — up to 11%
• In rinse-off products — up to 11%
• Prohibited for use in children under 12 without specific labelling

Menthol is not listed in the annexes as a restricted substance; however, because of its pharmacological properties and irritant potential, it is governed by the general safety rules. The SCCS has assessed menthol on several occasions; in its opinion on products for infants it pointed to the risk associated with application around the face in young children.

Camphor toxicity — what you should know

Camphor can be toxic if swallowed or if applied to open wounds. The toxic oral dose in children is as low as 0.5–1 g/kg of body weight. That is why it is critical that products containing camphor are stored out of the reach of children and never used near the mouth or nostrils of infants.

Are menthol and camphor safe for children?

This is the most important question, and the answer is clear: products containing menthol and camphor should not be used in children under 2 years of age, and in particular should not be applied around the face, nose and neck of infants and young children.

Cases of laryngospasm and breathing difficulties have been documented in infants following the application of menthol products around the nose. European paediatric societies and paediatric dermatologists recommend avoiding these ingredients entirely in children up to 2 years of age, and using them with great caution in children up to 12 years of age.

• Infants and children under 2: an absolute ban on applying products containing menthol and camphor to the face, neck and chest
• Children aged 2–12: only products with a low concentration, kept away from the face and eyes, on a doctor's recommendation
• Adults: safe at the typical cosmetic concentrations when used as directed

Note: this article is for information purposes only and does not replace medical or paediatric advice. If you have any doubts about using products containing menthol and camphor in children, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

How to use balms with menthol and camphor safely?

For adults, used as directed, warming balms with menthol and camphor are safe and effective. A few rules for safe use:

• Do not apply to damaged skin, open wounds or mucous membranes
• Avoid contact with the eyes
• Do not use under an occlusive dressing (risk of irritation)
• Wash your hands after applying
• Store out of the reach of children

If you are looking for safe massage products for the whole family, it is worth browsing the offer in the body lotions category and checking each product's composition for its menthol and camphor concentrations.

How to read labels — menthol and camphor concentrations

An ingredient's position on the INCI list indicates its relative concentration. In sports balms, menthol and camphor are usually listed in the top half of the list, which suggests a concentration above 1%. Our ingredient encyclopaedia contains detailed profiles of both ingredients, with information on safe concentration ranges.

You can also use the product search to filter for balms without menthol and camphor — which can be useful for parents of young children looking for safe alternatives.

Summary

Menthol and camphor are safe for adults when products are used as directed and at the concentrations permitted by the EU. However, they pose a real risk to infants and young children, particularly when applied around the airways. Always check a product's composition, and never use warming balms containing these ingredients in children under 2 years of age without consulting a doctor.

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