Cream, roll-on, stick or balm. Same idea, different mess.

Plus’s topical shelf is an applicator decision. Menthol and camphor do the work you can feel. The format decides coverage and whether you will actually use it twice.

01 · Best first try

Cooling roll-on

Localized, less messy, easy in a bag. The cleanest way to judge menthol and camphor on skin.

02 · Larger area

Massage cream

Hands-on coverage for a shoulder or thigh. Wash hands after. Easy to over-apply.

03 · On the go

Sport stick

A targeted swipe, similar to a deodorant stick. Small coverage, tidy in a gym bag.

Before you pick

Patch test. A cooling film is just a skin sensation.

External use only

Thin layer. Keep it off eyes, mouth and broken skin. Wash hands after.

Roll-on for a first trial

A rollerball keeps gel off your palms. Shake if the formula separates. The ball can clog.

Cream spreads; balm lingers

Cream is for a larger area. Balm is thicker and greasier. A screw cap beats an open tin in a bag.

No heat pack on a strong gel

Do not pair a warming or strong gel with a heat pack or tight wrap. Stop if skin stays sore.

The full review ranks roll-on, cream, stick and balm, with a use checklist and a side-by-side table.

Read the Plus topical review