This Design Essentials Scalp Tonic smells like a cup of peppermint tea, and it soothes my scalp like no other

Published January 23, 2025

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I take pride in my hair, no matter the hairstyle I’m wearing, and that includes keeping my scalp healthy and moisturized. Over the years, I’ve tried a plethora of scalp treatments and oils, and while some have gotten the job done, I always find myself reaching for this Design Essentials Soothing Scalp Tonic. Whether I’m wearing my hair in braids, styled in a silk press or natural, this oil works like an absolute charm and keeps my scalp moisturized. It has become a tried and true staple in my haircare routine, and it happens to be under $20! Here’s why I love it.

Design Essentials Peppermint and Aloe Soothing Scalp Tonic, $15.99

photo of the Design Essentials Peppermint & Aloe Therapeutics Soothing Scalp Tonic
Amazon

Infused with peppermint, aloe and natural oils, this scalp tonic is like a minty refresher for my scalp. It calms, soothes and stimulates my scalp, and it smells just like a cup of peppermint tea. It also helps remove impurities, particles and excess oils that contribute to skin and scalp irritation.

If your scalp gets dry during the day due to exercising, irritation or the cold winter weather (like mine does), this Design Essentials scalp oil instantly works to moisturize it and prevent flakiness. The small nozzle makes it easy to get into every crevice of your scalp, and it works with practically any hairstyle, whether that’s braids, locs, wigs, sew-ins, silk presses, blowouts or natural styles. I have 4B and coily hair, but this oil works well for many other hair textures and types, as well. Plus, it’s cruelty free and dermatologist tested, and it’s also free of mineral oil, fragrance, dye and gluten.

After spending months looking for a product that provides the right amount of moisture to my scalp, I can say that this is the only oil I’ll use from now on. Even Amazon reviewers agree that this is a haircare staple, regardless of texture and style. “I didn’t know what was going on with my scalp, but it was inflamed and shedding. I used it directly on my scalp [and it] worked instantly,” says one reviewer. “The part I love about it is that it’s not oily/heavy and absorbed directly in my scalp. My beautician even noticed a difference!”

So, if your scalp is prone to dryness or irritation like mine, then I highly recommend getting your hands on this hair oil. It’s the only one that has touched my scalp in months, and I love the fresh peppermint scent. I also like to pair it with other Design Essentials products like the peppermint and aloe shampoo or the agave and lavender detangling conditioner for even better results. Grab it while it’s on Amazon for under $20, and get ready to elevate your haircare routine.

Lauryn Jiles is a Content Commerce Assistant at McClatchy. She is based in South Carolina and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism. Lauryn has written for numerous brands and is well-versed in the fashion, beauty, health, and lifestyle verticals. She enjoys yoga, coffee, fashion museums, sushi, and traveling.