Although an effective pain reliever, Biofreeze gel can cause a few side effects, which in most cases are not serious. Some individuals using the gel may experience skin irritation or develop a rash. This HealthHearty article tries to delve further to understand the possible side effects and their intensities.
When the skin is damaged, say with a cut or a puncture wound, one should refrain from using Biofreeze gel as it can cause irritation.
Biofreeze gel is commonly used to mask pain associated with sprains, strains, and joint problems. Just apply it, and rest assured, you will experience immediate relief from the discomfort. Menthol, the active ingredient added in Biofreeze acts as a cooling agent. The cooling action numbs the site of application, which helps relieve pain. It is essentially a topical analgesic that has been effective to provide instant relief. However, the pain-relieving gel is not free from side effects, which in most cases are not a cause for concern but can be quite bothersome. They are discussed below.
Changes in Skin Color
Skin turning red after applying the product may indicate an allergic reaction to the pain reliever. The skin may also become inflamed. People with sensitive skin experience this side effect.
Cough and Breathing Trouble
Although inhaling Biofreeze gel is not a concern; however, accidental excessive inhalation can trigger bouts of cough and breathing problems. This excessive inhalation of Biofreeze can irritate the upper respiratory tract, which may also cause a sore throat. Asthma patients should also ensure that they do not inhale too much of the product. You should be very careful when using the product. If you mistakenly dab it near the nose, it is likely to irritate the nasal passages and trigger a bout of cough.
In case these side effects occur even after inhaling small amounts of Biofreeze gel, it may indicate an allergy to its main ingredients―camphor, menthol, etc. Side effects after long-term use can make you sick. So daily exposure to its ingredients by breathing the vapors may eventually cause the same upper respiratory tract problems. If you are sensitive to the smell of menthol, then certainly, the use of Biofreeze gel can cause these side effects.
Headache
This is one of the immediate side effects that can occur from overexposure to its vapors. So unknowingly breathing its vapors in high concentration can cause headache, which may be followed by feeling of dizziness.
Rash
There have been reports of rash and mild skin irritation occurring after applying Biofreeze gel. This too may indicate minor allergy or sensitivity to the product.
Lacerations
This is an extremely uncommon but an adverse side effect. Formation of laceration is an indication of extreme sensitivity to the product. Lacerations may be wide or narrow, depending on the quantity of application and severity of allergic reaction.
Severe Allergic Reaction
Those severely allergic to menthol, the active ingredient in Biofreeze gel may experience widespread rash, intense itching, severe irritation at application site, swelling of the face, lips and tongue. This may be followed by chest discomfort or tightness and breathlessness.
Skin Allergy Test
Whether you are allergic to this gel can be determined by performing this skin test. This is a diagnostic method that helps detect signs of allergy. So before you use it, Apply a miniscule amount of the gel on healthy skin away from the painful area. In case, you experience an itchy sensation, develop a rash, or notice any other allergic reaction on the application site, it is best to stop using Biofreeze gel. The reaction may occur immediately or a few days after application. However, in case you do not observe any negative reaction, there is no harm in using the product.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
