Icy Hot, Extra Strength
Main Ingredients: Methyl Salicylate and menthol
Best For: Temporary relief of arthritis pain, simple backache, bursitis, tendonitis, muscle strains and sprains, bruises and cramps
Smell: Very strong, wintergreen
Color: White
Texture: Waxy
Feels slightly greasy where applied and the smell hangs around. Takes very little rubbing to apply. Go to www.chattem.com for more details on use and where to buy.
Blue-Emu, Super Strength
Main Ingredients: Aloe, Glucosamine and emu oil
Best For: Temporary relief of joint and arthritis pain, injury with swelling, and burn pain; also speeds wound and scar healing
Smell: Very little smell, almost odorless
Color: Light blue
Texture: Creamy
Blue-Emu is greasier than Icy Hot. It takes very little to cover an area of skin and absorbs fast. Leaves a cool sensation where applied and doesn't stain clothing. For details, go to www.blue-emu.com.
Mineral Ice
Main Ingredient: Menthol
Best For: Arthritis, sports injuries, strains, sprains, bruises and backache
Smell: Strong and medicine-like, reminiscent of Vicks VapoRub
Color: "Ocean" blue
Texture: Gel
The greasiest of the three, but this gel absorbs into the skin the fastest. It tingles where applied so you definitely know it's there and it feels like it's working. The cooling effect seems to last longer than the others. The gel can be used with wet or dry bandages, or ice packs. For more information, go to www.walgreens.com and search for Mineral Ice.
