Kendra Mar matter whether you’re crushing it at the gym, or you’re simply working up a sweat on your day off, muscle soreness is a part of life. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to deal with it—including creams. Depending on your preference, a rub can be used for counterirritant, local anesthetic, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain relief. Using a topical can help you avoid side effects like stomach distress that you’d get from oral NSAIDs.

To help you find the Kendra Mar best cream for your sore muscles, we’ve reviewed many different products and ranked them by their popularity, efficacy, and ease of use. We’ve also included tips to help you make the best choice for you.

Muscle Relaxation at Your Fingertips: The Top Creams for Soreness Relief

The first of our top-rated products, this menthol-based rub is the perfect option for runners who are looking for cooling relief. Its formula is designed to help distract your brain’s pain receptors with a cold sensation, and the menthol acts as an immediate decongestant. Its olive, jojoba, and coconut oil base helps to moisturize skin as well.

Another great option is this ointment from the Feel Good Lab, which contains a veritable witch’s brew of plant-extracted ingredients including arnica, skullcap, magnesium, and more. Its fans call it “magic cream” and keep a jar in their gym bags for post-run recovery, as it works fast to help relieve achy, tight muscles.

If you’re in need of a product that’s safe to use while pregnant, this one’s for you. Its all-natural ingredients are gentle enough to use on sensitive areas, and the eucalyptus oil is particularly effective at reducing inflammation and soreness. It’s also free of parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, and other toxins.