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mint leaves with liseterine

LISTERINE® Ingredients

When you rinse with LISTERINE® you reach virtually your entire mouth to help protect against plaque and bad breath causing germs. Below you can learn more about the essential oils in LISTERINE® that do this.

OUR ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oils are at the very core of our formulation. No other branded mouthwash offers this unique, four-ingredient formula that penetrates biofilm to reduce plaque and helps keep your mouth feeling clean and healthy.

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THYMOL

Identical to the thymol in natural thyme, research continues to demonstrate this essential oils effectiveness against bacteria.

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EUCALYPTOL

Derived from trees usually found in Australia, this essential oil acts as an antibacterial agent to help soothe inflammation.

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MENTHOL

Identical to the menthol found in natural corn mint, this essential oil is known for its germ killing properties.

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METHYL SALICYLATE

Identical to the methyl salicylate in natural wintergreen, this essential oil is known for its fresh-flavouring properties.

COMMONLY USED INGREDIENTS

In addition to our powerful essential oils, LISTERINE® uses a variety of other ingredients within each swish!

one

Water

The essential base of all of our products.

two

Alcohol

Helps dissolve the oils in some of our mouthwashes.

three

Sodium Benzoate

Adjusts the pH of the product to ensure the strength is just right.

four

Benzoic Acid

Prevents microbial growth and helps adjust pH in the product.

five

Sorbitol

Provides hydration and sweetness to enhance the flavour.

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Sucralose

Provides sweetness to enhance the flavour of your swish.

seven

Sodium Saccharin

Provides sweetness to enhance the flavour of our mouthwash.

eight

Poloxamer 407

Key in helping mix the oils and water in our mouthwashes.

LET'S TALK ABOUT ALCOHOL

We include alcohol in our ingredients as it helps disperse our essential oils contained within the formulation. For some people it may also provide a strong taste when they swish. For those who prefer a less intense taste, we have several milder taste variants which are alcohol free.

Explore our alcohol-free range here

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This site is published by Kenvue UK Limited which is solely responsible for its contents. It is intended for a UK audience.

Site last updated on: 31 March 2025

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