Carvone

What is it?

Carvone is a naturally occurring organic compound in the terpene family, found in essential oils such as spearmint (Mentha spicata) and dill. It appears as an oily liquid with a fresh, spicy, and slightly sweet scent.

What does it do in cosmetics?

Carvone is mainly used for:

Fragrance: it is widely used as a scent component in perfumes, aromatic waters, toothpastes, and oral care products due to its minty aroma.

Refreshing and aromatherapeutic effect: contributes to a fresh, stimulating sensory experience, especially when combined with essential oils.

Natural antimicrobial: several studies attribute antibacterial and antifungal properties to carvone, making it suitable for natural skincare products.

Did you know?

Carvone is the compound responsible for spearmint’s typical “chewing gum” scent.

It is present in many certified natural formulations and is generally well tolerated.