My husband laughed when I first brought a jar of Penetrex home and put it on my bedside table. Yes, I know – the name, not to mention I like to keep it next to my bed to make it seem like something more exciting than aching muscles and joints. Over the years, I’ve tried many other muscle-relieving topicals with different active ingredients and more demure names, but I always seem to come back to Penetrex for my regular back and neck pain. I’m starting to think of it as my (naughty-sounding) secret weapon. That’s why I was both surprised and validated when I realized it had over 70,000 positive reviews on Amazon. Not only that, but you can now get up to 37% off on Amazon’s Big Sale Day.
Here’s information about how Penetrex works and what other reviewers have to say about it.
What is Penetrex?
Quick facts:
- Designed to help relieve muscle and joint pain
- Safe for daily use, according to the brand
- Available in cream and roll-on formulas
- Active ingredients include arnica, vitamin B6, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and frankincense oil
- Cruelty-free and dermatologist-tested
- Currently up to 37% off on Amazon
Designed to provide immediate and long-term relief for muscle and joint pain, Penetrex features a primarily plant-based formula that the brand considers safe for daily use. This makes it a good alternative to prescription and over-the-counter creams that contain more heavy-duty ingredients.
“Many topical pain relievers contain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (or ‘NSAIDs’), such as ketoprofen or diclofenac,” says Knoxville physician Igor Smelyansky said he is dual board certified in neurology and pain management. “These drugs can have serious side effects when used long-term.”
Dr. Smelyansky adds, “Penetrex Joint and Muscle Treatment Cream, on the other hand, does not contain these drugs and is much safer. I often recommend [it] In my pain management practice, I have patients who suffer from musculoskeletal pain.
One of the key ingredients in Penetrex is Arnica, a perennial plant that has been used medicinally for over 500 years. When used topically, it can help relieve muscle pain and minimize inflammation (it’s also often used to treat sprains and bruises). Penetrex also contains vitamin B6 and frankincense oil.
Of course, if you’re not already experiencing any chronic or unusual pain, or you’ve been injured (don’t just slap some Penetrex on it), you should see your doctor. You should also consult your doctor before trying a new muscle relief cream – especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. And, while Penetrex is generally considered safe, it’s best to do a small patch test before trying it to make sure it won’t irritate your skin.
How to use Penetrex?
Sometimes I feel guilty for not reading the instructions carefully (especially when I’m not feeling great). Turns out I had been using Penetrex incorrectly. I just apply it once a day when needed, but the brand actually recommends applying it three to four times a day for the first 7 to 10 days. Other than that, you can apply it only as needed.
While my lazy usage habits are still somewhat of a quick fix, many reviewers stress that you’ll get the most out of Penetrex if you use it exactly as directed. Now that I know better, I’m doing it the “right” way, and I’m really seeing a difference in applying it repeatedly throughout the day. I didn’t feel ready to do cartwheels yet, but it eased my pain and made them less distracting.
I haven’t tried the Penetrex roll-on yet, but what I love about this cream is that it absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue or causing a burning sensation. And, while some muscle relief topicals may have a strong medicinal scent, Penetrex Cream has a mild, minty scent that gradually wears off. With its fluffy, whipped texture, a little goes a long way (which is a good thing, because it means reapplying it multiple times a day for the first week).
What are the critics saying?
Everyone is different, which means there is no guarantee that Penetrex will work for you. That said, the consensus on Amazon is overwhelmingly positive. Some reviewers even state that they have tried all other topical creams and found Penetrex to be the best topical cream for pain.
Here are some examples of what some reviewers have to say about Penetrex:
“Really works! Feels great, no burn. Cooling. Smells great. Not overpowering. Definitely recommended for muscle stiffness and soreness. — Tiro
“I’ve tried them all: Blue Emu, Ice Heat, Asper Cream, Benga, Salon Pass, etc. This also helps for an hour or two. Penetrex is by far the best [best]! […] My issues got some relief the first time I applied and it gets better and better with each application [subsequent] one. — Michelle Shepherd Mom
“The smell goes away quickly. I use this 2 times a day. This is the first joint and muscle treatment that really works [for me]”. — Maggie S1
“I followed the instructions and wore it 4 times a day. Wow! After three days I was shocked! […] I can go all day without taking too many breaks! i was completely stunned […] This is the greatest joint relief I have ever had in my life. — Stephanie
expert:
Igor Smelyansky, MD, is dual board certified in neurology and pain management. He is the owner of Omega Pain Management, a private pain management practice located in Knoxville, Tennessee.
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