Are Bengay and Icy Hot the same? A Detailed Pharmacological Comparison

October 10, 2025 •

5 min read

Globally, approximately 1.7 billion people suffer from musculoskeletal conditions, making topical analgesics a cornerstone of pain management [1.8.5]. When asking 'Are Bengay and Icy Hot the same?', the answer lies in their similar yet distinct pharmacological profiles and active ingredients.

Quick Summary

Bengay and Icy Hot are not identical, though both are topical counterirritants. Key differences in their active ingredients and concentrations lead to varied primary uses for muscle aches, strains, and arthritis pain.

Key Points

Not Identical: Bengay and Icy Hot are both counterirritants but use different concentrations of active ingredients like menthol, methyl salicylate, and camphor [1.2.2, 1.3.2, 1.4.1].
Different Sensations: Icy Hot is known for its 'icy to hot' sensation, while Bengay products often provide a primary warming effect, especially 'Ultra Strength' versions [1.5.2, 1.3.2].
Mechanism of Action: They work by creating a cooling or warming feeling on the skin, which distracts the brain from deeper muscle or joint pain [1.5.2, 1.7.4].
Ingredient Focus: Bengay Ultra Strength has a high concentration of methyl salicylate (30%) for deep heat, while some Icy Hot versions prioritize higher menthol levels (16%) for a stronger cooling effect [1.3.3, 1.4.1].
Safety is Crucial: Never use either product with a heating pad, as this can cause serious skin burns [1.10.1, 1.10.3, 1.10.5].
Use Case Varies: Icy Hot's cooling effect may be better for acute injuries like sprains, while Bengay's warmth can be better for chronic muscle stiffness or arthritis [1.4.2, 1.9.4].
Consult a Doctor: Individuals with aspirin allergies should be cautious with products containing methyl salicylate and consult a healthcare provider before use [1.5.1].

Understanding Topical Analgesics and Counterirritants

When you're dealing with minor aches, muscle soreness, or joint pain, you might reach for an over-the-counter (OTC) topical analgesic. These are medications applied directly to the skin to provide localized pain relief [1.6.2]. Among the most popular are Bengay and Icy Hot, which fall into a category known as counterirritants.

Counterirritants work by creating a minor irritation on the skin's surface [1.7.5]. This action produces a cooling or warming sensation that distracts your brain from the deeper, more intense pain in your muscles or joints [1.5.2, 1.7.4]. The key ingredients that produce these sensations are typically menthol, methyl salicylate, and camphor [1.2.2]. By stimulating nerve endings in the skin, they effectively 'gate' or block pain signals from reaching the brain, providing temporary relief [1.7.5]. As of 2024, over 68% of patients with chronic pain in the U.S. and Europe report using topical analgesics as an alternative to oral medications [1.8.2].

The Core Pharmacology: How the Ingredients Work

To understand the differences between Bengay and Icy Hot, it's essential to look at their primary active ingredients and how they function:

Menthol: Derived from mint oils, menthol provides a cooling sensation by stimulating the skin's cold receptors (TRPM8) [1.6.4, 1.7.3]. This initial cooling distracts from pain and can lead to a desensitization of the nerve endings [1.7.3]. It also causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which can improve blood flow to the area [1.5.1, 1.9.4].
Methyl Salicylate: Also known as oil of wintergreen, this ingredient provides a warming sensation [1.5.1]. It is a salicylate, chemically similar to aspirin, and can have mild anti-inflammatory effects by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation [1.4.2, 1.5.1]. It works by widening blood vessels, increasing blood flow and warmth to the affected tissue [1.5.4].
Camphor: Obtained from the camphor tree, this ingredient can produce both warming and cooling sensations [1.5.4]. It contributes to the counterirritant effect and also has mild local anesthetic properties [1.5.4].

Bengay vs. Icy Hot: A Head-to-Head Comparison

While both brands utilize the same core ingredients, they do so in different combinations and concentrations across their product lines, which is the fundamental difference. The name 'Icy Hot' itself describes its mechanism: the menthol provides the 'icy' cooling sensation, followed by the 'hot' warming feeling from methyl salicylate [1.5.2]. Bengay products often lead with a warming sensation, particularly in their 'Ultra Strength' formulations which have high concentrations of methyl salicylate.

Active Ingredient Breakdown

The specific formulation is what truly separates one product from another. A product's primary effect—be it cooling, warming, or a combination—depends entirely on the concentration of its active ingredients.

Bengay Ultra Strength Cream: This popular formulation contains Camphor 4%, Menthol 10%, and a high concentration of Methyl Salicylate at 30% [1.3.2, 1.3.3]. This makes it a potent warming agent, often preferred for deep muscle aches.
Icy Hot Advanced Relief Cream: This product contains Menthol 16% and Camphor 11% [1.4.1]. The higher percentage of menthol delivers a strong initial cooling sensation.
Icy Hot Balm: This formulation contains Menthol 7.6% and Methyl Salicylate 29% [1.4.1, 1.4.3]. This combination is designed to provide the classic 'icy to hot' sensation.
Bengay Arthritis Extra Strength: This version contains 30% methyl salicylate and 8% menthol, focusing on the warming and anti-inflammatory properties of the salicylate for joint pain [1.3.1].

Comparison Table: Bengay vs. Icy Hot


Feature	Bengay (Ultra Strength Cream)	Icy Hot (Advanced Relief Cream & Balm)	Primary Mechanism
Primary Sensation	Deep Warming	Icy (cooling) followed by warming	Counterirritation [1.5.4]
Key Active Ingredients	Methyl Salicylate (30%), Menthol (10%), Camphor (4%) [1.3.2]	Cream: Menthol (16%), Camphor (11%) [1.4.1]. Balm: Menthol (7.6%), Methyl Salicylate (29%) [1.4.3]	Stimulation of thermal receptors in the skin [1.7.5]
Best For	Deep muscle aches, strains, backaches, and arthritis pain where warmth is desired [1.3.4, 1.9.4].	Acute pain, sprains, and bruises where initial cooling is beneficial to reduce inflammation, followed by warmth to relax muscles [1.4.1, 1.4.2].	Temporary relief of minor aches and pains of muscles and joints [1.3.4, 1.4.1].
Formulations Available	Creams, Gels, Patches [1.3.1]	Creams, Balms, Patches, Roll-ons, Sprays [1.2.3, 1.4.1]	Topical application for localized effect [1.6.2].

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between Bengay and Icy Hot often comes down to personal preference and the type of pain you are experiencing.

For Immediate Injury (Sprains, Bruises): Many professionals recommend an initial cooling effect to help reduce inflammation, similar to applying an ice pack. In this case, an Icy Hot formulation with a high menthol concentration might be preferable [1.4.2].
For Chronic Muscle Soreness or Stiffness: The deep, penetrating warmth from a product like Bengay Ultra Strength, with its high methyl salicylate content, can be very effective at relaxing tense muscles and soothing persistent aches [1.9.4].
For Arthritis Pain: Both brands offer products specifically marketed for arthritis. Bengay's arthritis formula has high levels of methyl salicylate, which can help with joint pain and stiffness [1.3.1, 1.9.1]. The effectiveness can vary by individual, and some people may prefer the cooling/warming distraction of Icy Hot.

Important Safety Precautions

While generally safe when used as directed, there are critical safety considerations for all topical analgesics.

Do Not Use with Heat: Never use a heating pad, hot water bottle, or any form of external heat with these products. Doing so dramatically increases the risk of serious skin burns [1.10.1, 1.10.2, 1.10.3].
Do Not Bandage Tightly: Tight bandaging can trap heat and active ingredients, increasing absorption and the risk of skin irritation or burns [1.5.1, 1.10.5].
Avoid Damaged Skin: Do not apply to wounds, rashes, or damaged, irritated skin [1.10.5].
Wash Hands Thoroughly: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth, or other sensitive areas after application [1.6.5].
Aspirin Allergy: If you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates, consult a doctor before using products containing methyl salicylate [1.5.1].

The FDA has issued warnings about rare cases of serious first- to third-degree chemical burns associated with products containing menthol and methyl salicylate, especially when used with heat [1.2.2, 1.10.1]. If you experience pain, swelling, or blistering where the product was applied, stop use and seek medical attention immediately [1.2.4].

Conclusion

So, are Bengay and Icy Hot the same? The answer is no. While they belong to the same class of drugs (topical counterirritants) and use a similar palette of active ingredients, they are not interchangeable. The key differences lie in the specific concentrations of menthol, methyl salicylate, and camphor in their various products. Icy Hot typically emphasizes an initial cooling sensation followed by warmth, making it a popular choice for acute injuries. Bengay, particularly its Ultra Strength formula, is known for its powerful, deep-heating effect, which can be ideal for chronic muscle soreness and arthritis. Ultimately, the 'better' product depends on the specific type of pain and the user's personal preference for a cooling or warming sensation. Always read the label and follow safety precautions, especially the warning against using these products with a heating pad.

For more information on topical pain relief, a helpful resource is the Mayo Clinic's guide to treatments absorbed through your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, they are not the same. While both are topical pain relievers called counterirritants, they have different formulations and concentrations of active ingredients like menthol, methyl salicylate, and camphor, leading to different primary sensations (e.g., more heat vs. 'icy to hot') [1.2.2, 1.5.2].

Both brands make products for arthritis. The choice is often based on personal preference. Bengay's arthritis formula has a high concentration of methyl salicylate (30%) for warmth [1.3.1], while some may prefer the distracting cool-then-warm sensation of Icy Hot. Both can provide temporary relief for minor arthritis pain [1.9.1].

No. You should never use a heating pad with Bengay, Icy Hot, or similar products. Doing so can trap heat and lead to serious skin burns. The FDA has issued specific warnings against this practice [1.10.1, 1.10.3, 1.10.5].

The main active ingredients are typically a combination of menthol, methyl salicylate, and camphor [1.2.2]. Menthol provides a cooling sensation, while methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) provides warmth. The percentage of each ingredient varies by product [1.3.1, 1.4.1].

They work as counterirritants. By creating a sensation of coolness or warmth on the skin, they stimulate sensory nerve endings. This stimulation distracts your brain and blocks it from recognizing the underlying pain signals from your muscles or joints [1.5.2, 1.7.4].

For most products, you can apply a thin layer to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily. Always read and follow the specific directions on the product label [1.3.4, 1.4.4].

While generally safe, rare but serious side effects can include chemical burns, especially if used with heat or on broken skin [1.2.4, 1.10.1]. If you experience excessive irritation, blistering, or worsening pain, stop using the product and consult a doctor.

For an acute injury like a sprain, a product with a strong cooling effect is often recommended initially to help reduce inflammation. An Icy Hot formulation with a higher percentage of menthol might be more suitable in this case [1.4.2].