4 Best Cooling Gels for Skin and Body: Instant Refreshment and Relief

What Are Cooling Gels for the Skin and Body, and How Do They Work?

Cooling gels are products designed to create a cooling effect on the skin surface by drawing heat from the skin.

They often contain ingredients like menthol, camphor, peppermint, or eucalyptus oil, which create a refreshing, cooling effect.

These ingredients work by stimulating cold receptors in the skin and constricting blood vessels, helping to reduce inflammation, redness, and minor discomfort from sore muscles or skin irritation.

The Best gel for skin also includes moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, so your skin stays hydrated and soft instead of dry. They’re perfect for post-workout recovery, tired feet after a long day, or just when your muscles and skin need a little relief.

Basically, cooling gels are a simple, effective way to soothe discomfort while keeping your skin happy and refreshed.

Comparison Table

Products	WOWMD Polar Flex Cooling Gel	Organic Aloe Vera Gel	Fast-Acting TIMLIFE Soothing Cooling Gel	Foot SPA - Massage Cooling Gel
Third-party tested	Yes	No	No	No
Highlights	A refreshing solution formulated to boost both your pre- and post-workout routine	Powerful formula featuring organic aloe vera designed to help deliver deep hydration, reduce sun damage, soothe sunburns, and moisturize the skin	Menthol and frankincense-infused gel designed to relieve sore muscles, cool tension	Natural menthol, camphor, peppermint, and eucalyptus oil formula designed for foot and leg massage, pedicure treatments
Customer Rating	4.9/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.2/5
Shipping	Free shipping in the USA	Shipping fee applies	Vary depending on the seller	Vary depending on the seller

When Will I Start Seeing the Results?

How long it takes to see results depends on the brand you are using and the consistency of use.

• Many users feel a cooling or soothing sensation instantly after applying the gel.
• Relief from muscle tension, foot fatigue, or soreness can often be noticed within the first few uses.
• Consistent application over days or weeks may improve overall comfort and reduce recurring discomfort.
• Regular use, as directed on the label, ensures the best results and longer-lasting effects.

Cooling gels: Myth vs Facts

What to Consider Before Buying a Cooling Gel for Skin and Body?

• Ingredient combination: Check to see if the product contains the right combination of ingredients. Cooling gel containing a combination of ingredients like menthol, aloe vera, and essential oils is great for pain relief and skincare.
• Brand reputation/Transparency: Choose a product from a reputable brand with a high level of transparency. Products from such companies are usually of high quality, authentic, safe, and efficient.
• Expert recommendation: Opt for expert-recommended products because they have been reviewed and their efficiency and safety determined.
• Customer reviews: Checking out customer reviews increases your knowledge about a product’s safety and efficiency.
• Storage: Select a shelf-life product over products that require refrigeration or special storage.

How We Tested Cooling Gels?

• We reviewed active ingredients: We took time to review the active ingredients contained in each cooling gel to confirm if they have enough scientific backing and the right ingredients for skin care and pain relief.
• Checked on all skin types: To ensure safety, we went an extra mile to conduct a patch test on different skin types and observed reactions before adding it to our top picks.
• User experience: We also analyzed the product’s effectiveness and overall user experience before adding it to our list of the best cooling gels.

When to use cooling gels?

Checklist For Buyers:

Dosage Instructions: Follow the recommended usage on the label to achieve the best results.

Non-GMO: Choose cooling gels made with non-GMO ingredients for optimal safety.

Third-Party Testing: Opt for products tested by independent labs to verify purity and effectiveness.

Fragrance-Free Options: Consider fragrance-free gels for sensitive skin to avoid irritation.

Customer Reviews: Always check customer feedback to gauge product effectiveness.

Natural Ingredients: Look for gels with natural soothing ingredients like menthol, aloe vera, and essential oils.

Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, says that

Look for cooling gels formulated with aloe vera and glycerin. Aloe vera is nature's soothing balm with anti-inflammatory properties, while glycerin acts as a powerhouse humectant, drawing moisture into the skin for long-lasting hydration.

Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Cooling Gel for Your Skin and Body

• A cooling gel that allows the use of an emollient allows additional moisturization.
• If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test before applying the gel to your entire body. For sensitive skin, we recommend going for lightweight and non-scented options.
• Refrigerate the gel to boost its cooling effect

Did You Know?

DYK? Applying a menthol cooling gel on the thigh can lower muscle temperature by about 1.9 °C and skin temperature by about 4.2 °C within 80 minutes, while also boosting blood flow to the skin.

DYK? Depending on the formula, certain cooling gels give a stronger cooling effect, some even more than the higher 10% menthol gel.