Ingredients & Mechanisms

Menthol vs Camphor

Menthol and camphor are common counterirritant ingredients. They can alter how the skin feels and may temporarily change the perception of minor aches and pains.

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Menthol

Menthol typically creates a cooling sensation. Biofreeze cream lists menthol 10% as its active ingredient.

Camphor

Camphor is used in some counterirritant formulas and can create a distinctive warming or cooling sensory effect depending on the formulation.

Read the active ingredient panel

Do not compare products by brand name alone. Check the active ingredient, concentration, warnings and intended uses on the exact product label.

Related guides

Sources & further reading