THERMAL RELIEF CREAM
TRP targeted warming therapy
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Thermal Relief Cream is a modern, luxuriously cushioned take on traditional dit da jow—the herbal preparations long used by martial artists to care for bruised, overworked muscles and post-impact soreness. Instead of relying on folklore alone, this formula is built on contemporary research into TRP channels (Transient Receptor Potential channels), the molecular sensors that let us perceive temperature, touch, and pain—a discovery recognized with the 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
At the heart of the cream is capsaicin, the active compound found in chili peppers and a potent activator of the TRPV1 heat-sensitive TRP channel. When applied topically, capsaicin interacts with this receptor in three key ways:
Activation – Capsaicin strongly activates TRPV1, creating a focused warming sensation at the application site.
Counter-irritation – That warmth can feel more intense than the underlying discomfort, temporarily distracting the nervous system from deeper pain signals.
Desensitization – With repeated exposure, TRPV1 channels become less responsive to subsequent stimuli, which can lead to a longer-term reduction in perceived pain.
Thermal Relief Cream translates this pathway into a controlled, skin-comforting warming experience that helps muscles relax after workouts, long days, or minor strains. The base is enriched with botanicals and hydrating lipids to buffer the heat and support tissue comfort, while a refined essential-oil blend of vetiver, copaiba, ginger, amber, and sweet orange creates a warm, velvety, grounding scent—never harsh or medicinal.
Result: A luxurious, slow-building warmth that relaxes overused muscles, supports post-workout recovery, and complements the cooling step of the ICY–HOT sequence for deeper, more sustained relief.
Housed in a 100% plastic-free aluminum tube with an aluminum cap, designed for full recyclability and reduced environmental impact. Outer carton is FSC-certified and printed with vegetable-based inks.
Aqua ( Distilled Water ), Caprylic / capric triglyceride, Cetyl alcohol, Glycerin, Squalane, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Cannabis Sativa (seed) Oil, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Laureth-23, Laureth-4, Xantham Gum, Lecithin, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Decyl Glucoside, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Pentylene Glycol, Polysilicone-11, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Maltodextrin, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed Extract, Adansonia Digitata Seed Oil, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Vitamin B5 (D-panthenol), Tocopherol, EO Blend , Vanillyl Butyl Ether, Benzyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.
KEY ACTIVES
Potent activators of the TRPV1 heat receptor, stimulating a warming signal that competes with pain pathways. Repeated activation can desensitize TRPV1, reducing discomfort over time.
Devil's Claw is rich in harpagoside, traditionally used to support joint mobility and relieve sensations of stiffness or tightness—particularly beneficial after activity or repetitive strain.
Naturally high in aescin, which helps support venous tone and reduce sensations of heaviness—particularly beneficial for legs and areas exposed to repetitive strain. Support microcirculation, help reduce feelings of heaviness, and complement the warming cascade triggered by capsaicin.
Provides warming phenolics that enhance circulation and amplify the cream’s heat-based effects.
HOW TO USE
Apply generously to areas of tension or discomfort.
Allow to absorb—do not rub vigorously.
Use only on intact skin; avoid the eye area.
Wash hands well after application.
Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Use a generous layer, adjusted to area size and symptom intensity. Re-apply when needed.
A rich, cushioning cream that melts into the skin with a slow-building warmth.
Grounding vetiver, warming ginger, anti-inflammatory copaiba, amber, and sweet orange—an elegant, velvety scent.
TIPS FROM THE SPA
Thermal Relief Cream was one of the first three formulas ever developed in our spa lab -created for the many clients we treat for muscular tension, sports-related strain, or chronic tightnessm or the simple but real soreness of a weekend warrior lifestyle. Its role quickly expanded from targeted treatment to an essential step in our bodywork protocols, where TRP-based therapies enhance comfort, circulation, and muscular recovery.
Combined with Cooling Relief Gel- this dual-activation method is the cornerstone of our bodywork treatments, especially for clients recovering from athletic strain, chronic tension, or repetitive stress.
This is the same contrast-therapy approach used in sports medicine and our spa’s deepest therapeutic treatments—making the Cooling + Thermal duo the most effective pairing in the topical remedies category. The result: a deeper, more sustained release.
The combination of Cooling Relief Gel followed by Thermal Relief Cream is one of the most effective recovery techniques used in our spa. This pairing works because it engages two distinct TRP receptor pathways—the same neurobiological mechanisms recognized in the 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
First, Cooling Relief Gel activates TRPM8, the cold receptor responsible for sensing cool temperatures and moderating pain signals. This creates an immediate counter-irritant effect that helps soothe discomfort and relax tight muscles.
Then, Thermal Relief Cream stimulates TRPV1, the heat receptor involved in warmth perception and deep tissue response. This warming cascade supports circulation, encourages muscle relaxation, and helps the tissues soften more rapidly.
When used together, these opposing—but complementary—signals create a neurological push-pull effect that:
- Intensifies the perception of relief
- Helps muscles release tension more efficiently
- Supports circulation and metabolic activity in the treated area
- Provides faster, longer-lasting comfort than either step alone
Apply before cupping or gua sha to boost TRP activation.
Mechanical pressure enhances circulation and improves the gel’s cooling impact.
Apply immediately after exercise to help muscles unwind and ease tension.
Allow to absorb before stretching for additional comfort.
For desk-related tension or repetitive strain, use across shoulders, traps, or lower back to melt tightness and restore ease.
Apply Thermal Relief Cream before activity to gently pre-warm muscles and support easier movement—especially helpful for cold-weather days or early-morning training. It’s a favorite at the spa for feet before a day on the slopes: massage a thin layer into soles and around ankles before putting on socks and ski boots to help keep them feeling warm and more comfortable in tight footwear.
Because capsaicin activates the TRPV1 heat receptor, warmth can reactivate the sensation throughout the day. External heat—like hot water bottles, heated car seats, or a warm shower—can briefly intensify the comforting warmth and extend the feeling of relief.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Capsaicin activates the TRPV1 heat receptor, creating a warming signal that competes with pain pathways and can reduce discomfort over time through receptor desensitization.
Yes—use daily as long as the skin is intact and not irritated.
This formula pairs TRPV1-targeted capsaicin with devil’s claw, white willow bark, arnica, horse chestnut, and hyaluronic acids for a refined, multi-pathway recovery effect.
Either - Both.
Before: supports comfort during exertion.
After: helps ease post-activity tightness.
It is deep and steady—not a superficial or overwhelming heat. Apply gradually to gauge your comfort level.
No. A grounding aromatic blend of vetiver, copaiba, ginger, amber, and sweet orange creates an elegant, velvety scent profile.
Yes. Gentle tools like gua sha or cupping can enhance circulation and TRP activation.
Absolutely—layering Cooling Relief Gel first, then Thermal Relief Cream, creates the full ICY–HOT synergy for the most comprehensive relief.