Menthol is sometimes used as a topical ingredient to relieve symptoms associated with dermatitis, particularly itching (pruritus). Its use is primarily supported by its ability to activate cold-sensitive TRPM8 receptors in the skin, which produces a cooling sensation and can distract from or reduce the perception of itch. Several small studies and reviews have indicated that menthol-containing preparations can provide symptomatic relief from pruritus in conditions such as atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and other itchy dermatoses. However, the evidence is moderate in quality and typically based on relatively small clinical trials or case series, rather than large-scale randomized controlled trials.

Menthol is included in some over-the-counter creams and lotions for its antipruritic effects, and it has a long-standing history of use in topical therapies for itch. That said, menthol does not address the underlying inflammation or immune response in dermatitis; it is used primarily for symptomatic relief. Additionally, menthol can, in some individuals, cause skin irritation or allergic contact dermatitis, especially in higher concentrations. Thus, its use should be cautious in sensitive populations.

Overall, while menthol is not a primary treatment for dermatitis, its role as an adjunct for itch relief is supported to a limited extent by scientific evidence, hence a moderate rating of 2 on the evidence scale.