Effects of Peppermint Oil on Hair Growth and Antibacterial Activity

This study investigated the hair growth promotion and anti-dandruff effects of 3% peppermint oil (PEO) on male C57BL/6 mice. The mice were treated with 100 μL of PEO topically, 6 times a week for 4 weeks. Results showed that PEO promoted hair regrowth more effectively than 3% minoxidil, a standard FDA-approved treatment. PEO also demonstrated superior antibacterial activity against Pityrosporum ovale, forming a 34.0 mm inhibition zone and showing significant activity at a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.046%. Additionally, PEO-treated mice exhibited lower mast cell counts and higher safety profiles compared to the minoxidil group. These findings suggested that 3% PEO could be a practical option for promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.