8 Best Muscle Relaxant Cream from Top Brands for Pain Relief
For short-term relief, a muscle relaxant cream is your go-to solution. When muscle pain hits from a tough workout, stress, or an injury, a muscle relaxant cream offers quick and effective comfort. It’s easy to apply and works fast, helping you get back to your day.
Among the most popular muscle pain relief creams, many also offer a cooling sensation, which adds an extra layer of soothing comfort.
Whether you choose a cooling muscle cream or another favorite, having a reliable muscle relaxant cream in your home ensures you’re always ready to tackle muscle pain head-on.
Affiliate Disclosure
We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, this website contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you from the links on this page. Your support is appreciated!
Why Use a Muscle Relaxant Cream?
Muscle relaxant creams are a great choice for anyone experiencing muscle pain. They are easy to apply, work quickly, and can target specific areas of discomfort. These creams often contain ingredients like menthol, camphor, and other natural pain relievers that help soothe and relax sore muscles.
Top Brands for Muscle Relaxant Creams
Penetrex Joint & Muscle Therapy
On Amazon
Active Ingredients
- Arnica
- Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
- MSM / DMSO2 Methylsulfonylmethane
- Boswellia Serrata
- Capsaicin
Features
- Effective Whole-body Relief: Penetrex offers effective relief for joints and muscles, trusted by over 2 million users, with a proprietary blend of natural ingredients like Arnica, Vitamin B6, and MSM that penetrates deeply to address discomfort at its source.
- Non-irritating Formula: The cream is non-greasy, non-sticky, non-staining, and free from parabens, with a vanishing scent, making it pleasant and easy to use without any residue.
- Versatile and Safe Application: Penetrex can be applied to various body parts such as the back, neck, knee, hand, and foot, and is safe to use alongside other therapies like heating pads, ice packs, and massagers.
- Ethical Standards: The product is vegan and cruelty-free, ensuring it has never been tested on animals and adhering to high ethical standards.
- Targeted Soothing Benefits: Unlike many other products, Penetrex provides soothing benefits without burning or freezing sensations, enhanced by additional ingredients like Glucosamine, Choline, and Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense), and comes with a 100% satisfaction pledge.
Pros
- Effective joint and muscle relief.
- Natural ingredients: Arnica, Vitamin B6, MSM.
- Non-greasy, non-sticky, non-staining, with a vanishing scent.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
- No burning or freezing sensations.
Cons
- Requires frequent applications.
- Varied effectiveness may not work for severe pain.
- Higher cost than some alternatives.
- It provides temporary relief and needs continuous use.
Tiger Balm White
On Amazon
Active Ingredients
- Camphor
- Dementholised Mint Oil
- Eucalyptus Oil
- Menthol
- Clove Oil
Features
- Natural Ingredients: This product is crafted with a blend of natural, herbal ingredients, including Camphor, Dementholised Mint Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Mint, and Clove Oil. It offers a secure and efficient remedy for different types of aches and pains.
- Versatile Application: Our product is a versatile solution that is suitable for a wide range of uses. From relieving headaches and muscle pains to easing joint discomfort and minor skin irritations, it’s an essential item in any first aid kit.
- Cooling Sensation: Upon application, the balm delivers a soothing, cooling sensation, helping to calm inflamed areas and provide immediate relief from discomfort.
- Compact and Portable: Our product is designed for your convenience. Tiger Balm White comes in a small, portable container that can easily fit into your pocket or bag, making it perfect for on-the-go relief.
- Non-Greasy Formula: The non-greasy, easy-to-apply formula ensures quick absorption without leaving a sticky residue on the skin, enabling you to carry on with your daily activities comfortably.
- Effective Pain Relief: This balm offers fast-acting and long-lasting relief from a variety of pains, making it a reliable solution for everyday aches and pains.
Pros
- Natural ingredients ensure a safe and effective natural remedy.
- Cooling sensation reduces inflammation quickly.
- Non-greasy formula
- Portable and convenient
Cons
- The strong scent may not be suitable
- Potential skin sensitivity
- Temporary relief requiring frequent application
- Not suitable for all types of pain
Charlotte’s Web CBD Muscle Balm
On Amazon
Active Ingredients
- Full-spectrum hemp extract
- Menthol
- Arnica
- Peppermint oil
Features
- Full-Spectrum CBD: Charlotte’s Web CBD muscle relaxer contains high-quality, full-spectrum hemp extract with naturally occurring CBD. It supports muscle recovery and alleviates discomfort with 150mg of CBD muscle cream in a small tin and 450mg in a larger tin.
- Natural Ingredients: Infused with menthol, arnica, and peppermint oil, this balm provides a cooling sensation that enhances relief. It is made from natural ingredients, ensuring it is allergen-free, gluten-free, and vegan, making it safe for all users.
- Non-Greasy Formula: The balm absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. This feature makes it ideal for use at any time and in any place, ensuring that it won’t stain clothes or leave an oily feel.
- Calming Scent: It has a light, pleasant fragrance derived from natural essential oils. This calming scent is soothing and not overpowering, making it comfortable to use regularly.
- Portable and Convenient: The product is compact and easy to use, perfect for on-the-go relief. Its small size makes it ideal for targeting specific areas like knuckles and convenient to carry during any adventure.
Pros
- Warming and cooling sensation
- Natural ingredients
- Pleasant citrus aroma
- Long-lasting relief
- Alcohol-free, non-staining
Cons
- The strong citrus scent may not suit everyone
- Potential skin sensitivity for some users
- Temporary relief requiring frequent reapplication
- It may not be effective for severe pain conditions.
Sombra Warm Pain Relief
On Amazon
Active Ingredients
- Aloe vera
- Capsaicin
- Menthol
- Camphor
Features
Warming and Cooling Sensation: Provides a comforting heat that penetrates deeply to relax muscles and ease pain, along with cooling ingredients for dual relief.
Natural Ingredients: Formulated with aloe vera, capsaicin, menthol, and other natural ingredients to soothe and heal, free of NSAIDs and gluten.
Non-Greasy Formula: Absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for use anytime and anywhere.
Pleasant Citrus Aroma: Features a refreshing orange-citrus scent that is invigorating and not overpowering, enhancing the overall experience.
Long-Lasting Relief: Offers extended pain relief, making it ideal for chronic pain management and minor aches and pains associated with arthritis and simple backaches.
Ethical and Convenient: Alcohol-free, non-staining, animal-free, and made in the USA, ensuring high-quality standards and ethical production practices.
Pros
- Warming and cooling sensation
- Natural ingredients
- Pleasant citrus aroma
- Long-lasting relief
- Alcohol-free, non-staining
Cons
- The strong citrus scent may not suit everyone
- Potential skin sensitivity for some users
- Temporary relief requiring frequent reapplication
- It may not be effective for severe pain conditions.
Voltaren Arthritis Pain
On Amazon
Active Ingredients
- Diclofenac Sodium (1%)
Features
- Targeted Relief: Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is applied directly to the skin. Offering targeted relief at the source of arthritis pain.
- Clinically Proven Effectiveness: Clinically proven to relieve joint pain, reduce stiffness, and improve mobility, providing powerful arthritis pain relief.
- Over-the-Counter Availability: No prescription is required, making it accessible for those seeking arthritis pain relief without needing a doctor’s visit.
- Non-Greasy and Clean Scent: The gel absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue and has a clean, odor-free scent, enhancing the user experience.
- Easy Open Cap: It is designed with an easy-to-open flip cap that can be opened with just one hand, making it convenient for users with limited mobility.
- Versatile Packaging Options: Available in multiple sizes, from 50g to 150g, this product offers flexibility for various needs and usage durations.
- Paraben and Dye-Free: The formulation contains no parabens or dyes, making it a safer option for individuals with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Direct, targeted pain relief.
- Fast-absorbing and non-greasy.
- No strong odor.
- OTC (over-the-counter) and easy to use.
Cons
- It may cause skin irritation.
- Not for use with other NSAIDs.
- Slower to show full effects.
Boiron Arnicare Cream
On Amazon
Active Ingredients
- Arnica montana 1X HPUS
Features
- Natural Arnica Montana: Arnica Montana is a natural medicine that is known for reducing inflammation and minimizing pain.
- Multi-Purpose Use: Effective for joint pain, muscle pain, soreness, stiffness, and swelling from injuries, overexertion, and falls.
- Non-Greasy and Unscented: Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue or strong scent, making it ideal for daily use.
- Homeopathic Formula: Free from parabens, dyes, and artificial fragrances, ensuring a safe and gentle solution for pain relief.
- Dermatologist Tested: Safe for use on sensitive skin and can be applied to bruised or broken skin without irritation.
- Plant-Based Active Ingredient: The Arnica montana plant is a natural pain reliever that works without causing drowsiness or drug interactions, backed by the Boiron promise of quality and satisfaction.
Pros
- Non-greasy and unscented
- Homeopathic formula
- Dermatologist tested
- Plant-based active ingredient
Cons
- Temporary relief requiring reapplication
- Requires consistent application for best results
- Not suitable for all types of pain conditions
- Limited availability in some regions
Hempactive Hemp Relief Cream
On Amazon
Active Ingredients
- Hemp Oil
- Menthol
- Arnica Montana Flower Extract
- MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
Features
- High-Quality Hemp Extract: Contains potent hemp extract known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, combined with MSM, arnica, and menthol for enhanced relief.
- Natural Ingredients: Made with natural botanicals like aloe vera, arnica, and menthol, providing a soothing and effective solution for muscle soreness, joint pain, and inflammation.
- Non-Greasy Formula: Lightweight cream that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for daily use anywhere on the body.
- Long-Lasting Cooling Effect: A strong and potent formula delivers a long-lasting cooling sensation, offering comforting and soothing relief.
- Calming and Pleasant Scent: Features a light, refreshing fragrance from natural ingredients that is not overpowering, ensuring a pleasant user experience.
- Hempactiv Promise: The product comes with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and great customer service to make sure you are happy with every buy.
Pros
- High-quality hemp extract
- Natural ingredients
- Non-greasy formula
- Long-lasting cooling effect
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- Temporary relief requiring reapplication
- Potential skin sensitivity for some users
- It may not be effective for severe pain
- Requires consistent application for best results
Tylenol Precise Pain Relieving Cream
On Amazon
Active Ingredient
- Lidocaine
Features
- Maximum Strength Lidocaine: Contains 4% lidocaine to block pain signals, providing numbing relief from muscle aches and minor joint pains without a prescription.
- Targeted Pain Relief: Designed for use on the back, shoulders, legs, hips, knees, elbows, ankles, and other small joints, offering precise treatment with a massaging rollerball applicator.
- Fast-Absorbing and Non-Greasy: The cream absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue, ensuring it won’t stain clothes or leave a sticky feeling.
- Fragrance- and Dye-Free: Designed not to contain any scents or colors, it can be used by people with sensitive skin and at any time when you want to avoid strong smells.
- Clinically Proven Formula: Contains effective active ingredients like menthol and methyl salicylate to provide rapid and long-lasting pain relief.
- Convenient Application: It comes in a 4-ounce tube with a mess-free, massaging rollerball applicator for easy and precise application and is suitable for adults and children 12 years and older.
Pros
- Maximum strength lidocaine
- Fast-absorbing and non-greasy
- Fragrance- and dye-free
- Clinically proven formula
- Convenient rollerball applicator
Cons
- Temporary relief requiring reapplication
- Potential skin sensitivity for some users
- It may not be effective for severe pain
- Requires consistent application for best results
Benefits of Muscle Relaxant Creams
- Quick Relief: Muscle relaxant creams provide fast-acting relief, often within minutes of application.
- Targeted Treatment: Unlike oral medications, creams can be applied directly to the affected area.
- Easy to Use: Apply the cream to the skin and massage it in.
- Portable: Most muscle relaxant creams come in small tubes or bottles, making them easy to carry with you.
How to Choose the Right Muscle Relaxant Cream
With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right muscle relaxant cream for your needs. Here are some suggestions that help as you make your choice.
Ingredients
Look for creams that contain effective pain-relieving ingredients such as menthol, camphor, and other natural extracts. These ingredients help to cool and numb the pain, providing fast relief.
Application Method
Consider how you prefer to apply the cream. Some people find roll-on pain relief products more convenient, while others prefer traditional creams or balms. Choose the method that works best for you.
Scent
Some muscle relaxant creams have strong scents due to their active ingredients. If you are sensitive to smells, look for a cream with a milder scent.
Sensitivity to skin
If you have sensitive skin, pick a cream that is made to be gentle and won’t cause allergic reactions. Don’t use products that have strong chemicals that could make your skin irritated.
How to Use Muscle Relaxant Creams
Using muscle relaxant creams is simple. Follow these steps to get the best results:
- Clean the Area: Wash the area where you will be applying the cream to remove any dirt or sweat.
- Apply the Cream: Apply a small amount of cream with your fingers and rub it into the area that causes discomfort.
- Massage: Massage muscle relaxant cream in gently circular motions. As a result, the cream works better because it can get deeper into the skin.
- Wash Your Hands: To keep the cream from getting into your eyes or mouth by mistake, wash your hands appropriately.
Legal Disclaimer
The FDA has not evaluated muscle relaxant products, and they are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any sickness or health problem.
Conclusion
Muscle relaxant creams are a fantastic solution for anyone dealing with muscle or joint pain. With so many great options available from top brands, you’re sure to find a product that works for you. These creams provide fast and effective relief, allowing you to get back to your daily activities without the distraction of pain.
Whether you prefer a cooling muscle cream, a muscle pain relief balm, or a roll-on pain relief product, there’s something out there for everyone. Remember to consider the ingredients, application method, scent, and your skin sensitivity when choosing the right muscle relaxant cream for your needs.
Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a more active and pain-free lifestyle with the help of these top-rated muscle relaxant creams.