PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Health
First Aid and Emergency Health Care
Soft Tissue Injuries
How to Wash Icy Hot off Download Article Co-authored by Jonathan Frank, MD and Hannah Madden
Last Updated: July 24, 2025 Fact Checked
Download Article
How to Wash Icy Hot off Quickly
|
How long does Icy Hot take to wear off?
|
Is using too much Icy Hot dangerous?
|
How to Prevent Future Irritation
|
Video
|
Expert Interview
|
Warnings
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Jonathan Frank, MD and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Dr. Jonathan Frank is an Orthopedic Surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California, specializing in sports medicine and joint preservation. Dr. Frank's practice focuses on minimally invasive, arthroscopic surgery of the knee, shoulder, hip, and elbow. Dr. Frank holds an MD from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. He completed an orthopedic residency at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and a fellowship in Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Hip Preservation at the Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. He is a staff team physician for the US Ski and Snowboard Team. Dr. Frank is currently a scientific reviewer for top peer-reviewed scientific journals, and his research has been presented at regional, national, and international orthopedic conferences, winning several awards including the prestigious Mark Coventry and William A Grana awards. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 167,689 times.
Icy Hot is great at tackling muscle aches and pains, but what about when it hurts more than it helps? If you applied Icy Hot and it’s itching or burning, getting it off quickly is probably your top priority. In this article, we’ll tell you exactly how to wash Icy Hot off fast for instant relief. We’ll also share some safety information and general facts about Icy Hot to prevent irritation in the future.
Things You Should Know
Wash Icy Hot off quickly by using soap and warm water. If that doesn’t help, dip a cotton ball in olive oil and use it to neutralize the Icy Hot.
Icy Hot usually lasts for 2 to 3 hours.
Using too much Icy Hot can have adverse effects, so be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the package.
Limit applications to 3-4 times daily. Avoid putting Icy Hot on sunburned or irritated skin.
Steps
Section 1 of 4:
How to Wash Icy Hot off Quickly
Download Article
Wash the area with warm, soapy water. Use warm, not hot, water, to quickly rinse off the Icy Hot. Add soap to fully remove the product and get it off your skin.[1]X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
Hot water opens up your pores, which can cause more pain and irritation. Stick to lukewarm water to remove Icy Hot quickly without any pain.
Some people have had success with dipping a cotton ball into olive oil and rubbing it over the affected area to neutralize the Icy Hot. While this isn’t an expert-backed method, rubbing olive oil onto your skin won’t make the pain worse, so it’s worth a try if soap and water doesn’t work.
Similarly, some people use petroleum jelly to neutralize the burning sensation of Icy Hot after they’ve washed it off. If you’re still feeling pain after washing off Icy Hot, put a thin layer of petroleum jelly onto your skin.
Advertisement Section 2 of 4:
How long does Icy Hot take to wear off?
Download Article
Icy Hot usually wears off after 2 to 3 hours. Since you can reapply Icy Hot 3 to 4 times per day, the effects will only last a few hours at a time. If you’re wearing an Icy Hot patch, the effects will last for 8 to 12 hours.[2]X Expert Source Jonathan Frank, MDSports Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Preservation SpecialistExpert Interview [3]XResearch source
Section 3 of 4:
Is using too much Icy Hot dangerous?
Download Article
Using too much Icy Hot for long periods of time can be dangerous. While adding too much Icy Hot to your skin once or twice is fine, using a lot of Icy Hot for long periods of time can give you adverse effects. When you use too much Icy Hot, your body absorbs a lot more of the medicine inside than you need, which can lead to poisoning.
Since Icy Hot is a topical medication, swallowing it is very dangerous. If you or your child have swallowed Icy Hot, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Advertisement Section 4 of 4:
How to Prevent Future Irritation
Download Article
1 Apply a thin layer of Icy Hot 3 to 4 times per day. Always read the instructions on your Icy Hot, and follow the directions carefully. Spread a thin layer of Icy Hot on your skin, and rub it in until it’s fully absorbed. Don’t use Icy Hot more than 3 to 4 times per day.[4]XResearch source
2 Avoid using Icy Hot on sunburns or irritated skin. If your skin is already red, rashy, or irritated, Icy Hot will only make it worse. Only use Icy Hot on clear skin that isn’t sunburned to avoid any pain.[5]XResearch source
Try to avoid using Icy Hot after a hot shower, too. Since hot water opens up your pores, applying Icy Hot right afterwards can be too much for your skin, which can cause irritation.
3 Don’t use other topical medicines when using Icy Hot. Other topical medications can have adverse effects when mixed with Icy Hot. If you’re using a topical medication on your skin, talk to your doctor before using Icy Hot.[6]XResearch source
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement Did this article help you? Say thanks with a small tip. $1 $3 $5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything.
Video
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Warnings
In rare cases, Icy Hot can cause chemical burns. If your skin is red, blistered, or rashy for more than a day, make an appointment with your doctor. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 1
Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How toRemove Hot GlueHow toRemove Bandage Adhesive from SkinHow to Treat a Hot Glue BurnHow toRemove a Band AidHow toTreat an Oil BurnHow to Get Rid of a Nair Rash or Burn (Plus Preventative Tips!)How toTreat Wax BurnsHow toRemove a Band Aid PainlesslyHow to Get Rid of Veet Wax on Your Skin QuicklyHow toRemove a Liquid BandageHow toGet Jalapeno Off Your HandsHow toRemove Super Glue from Your Skin (Petroleum Jelly Method)How toStop the Burning in First Degree Burns TemporarilyHow toTreat an Ice Burn Advertisement
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about healing injuries, check out our in-depth interview with Jonathan Frank, MD.
Co-authored by: Jonathan Frank, MD Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Specialist This article was co-authored by Jonathan Frank, MD and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Dr. Jonathan Frank is an Orthopedic Surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California, specializing in sports medicine and joint preservation. Dr. Frank's practice focuses on minimally invasive, arthroscopic surgery of the knee, shoulder, hip, and elbow. Dr. Frank holds an MD from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. He completed an orthopedic residency at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and a fellowship in Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Hip Preservation at the Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. He is a staff team physician for the US Ski and Snowboard Team. Dr. Frank is currently a scientific reviewer for top peer-reviewed scientific journals, and his research has been presented at regional, national, and international orthopedic conferences, winning several awards including the prestigious Mark Coventry and William A Grana awards. This article has been viewed 167,689 times. 16 votes - 78% Co-authors: 4Updated: July 24, 2025 Views: 167,689 Categories: Soft Tissue Injuries
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
Read More...
In other languages Italian Spanish Portuguese Indonesian Dutch Czech Japanese
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 167,689 times.
Reader Success Stories
Kim M.
Sep 14, 2023
"I took a shower after using icy hot and didn't know why it hurt so bad! I'll never take a hot shower after putting it on again!!"..." more
Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Jonathan Frank, MD Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Specialist 16 votes - 78% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 4Updated: July 24, 2025 Views: 167,689
Kim M.
Sep 14, 2023
"I took a shower after using icy hot and didn't know why it hurt so bad! I'll never take a hot shower after putting it on again!!"..." more Share yours!
Quizzes & Games
What Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizDo I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizTake QuizOCD TestTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toRemove Hot GlueHow toRemove Bandage Adhesive from SkinHow to Treat a Hot Glue BurnHow toRemove a Band Aid
Featured Articles
What 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends Better40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & MoreHow toMake Friends
Trending Articles
What Female Body Shape Are You? How to Identify YoursWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouWhat JJK Character Am I Quiz
Featured Articles
The Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupAn Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?From Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male Personalities
Featured Articles
7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in MinutesHow to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHow toHypnotize SomeoneThe Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try?How to Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesHow toWhistle with Two Fingers
Watch Articles
How toEat GuavaHow to Get Yellow Stains Out of White ShoesLeft Eye Twitching for Females: What Astrology Says About Eye Twitching50 First Date Conversation Starters to Spark a ConnectionHow to Make a Mask Out of Paper (for Kids or Adults)How to Put Jibbitz on Crocs
Trending Articles
Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Finish the Lyrics QuizHow to Read Face Moles: Lucky and Unlucky PlacementsHow to Make the Magna-Tile Hologram from TikTokWhich Hunger Games District Would I Live In QuizCan Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?
Quizzes & Games
Am I Giving Someone the Ick QuizTake QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizWhat Skincare Products Should I Use QuizTake QuizSkin Picking Disorder TestTake QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizTake QuizAm I Chronically Online QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Health
First Aid and Emergency Health Care
Soft Tissue Injuries
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Co-authored by Jonathan Frank, MD and Hannah Madden 
$1 $3 $5 Leave a Tip Support our mission to help everyone in the world learn how to do anything. 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Jonathan Frank, MD Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Specialist This article was co-authored by Jonathan Frank, MD and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Dr. Jonathan Frank is an Orthopedic Surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California, specializing in sports medicine and joint preservation. Dr. Frank's practice focuses on minimally invasive, arthroscopic surgery of the knee, shoulder, hip, and elbow. Dr. Frank holds an MD from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. He completed an orthopedic residency at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and a fellowship in Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Hip Preservation at the Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. He is a staff team physician for the US Ski and Snowboard Team. Dr. Frank is currently a scientific reviewer for top peer-reviewed scientific journals, and his research has been presented at regional, national, and international orthopedic conferences, winning several awards including the prestigious Mark Coventry and William A Grana awards. This article has been viewed 167,689 times. 16 votes - 78% Co-authors: 4 Updated: July 24, 2025 Views: 167,689 Categories: Soft Tissue Injuries 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
622 
Wash the area with warm, soapy water. Use warm, not hot, water, to quickly rinse off the Icy Hot. Add soap to fully remove the product and get it off your skin.[1] 
Icy Hot usually wears off after 2 to 3 hours. Since you can reapply Icy Hot 3 to 4 times per day, the effects will only last a few hours at a time. If you’re wearing an Icy Hot patch, the effects will last for 8 to 12 hours.[2] [3] 
Using too much Icy Hot for long periods of time can be dangerous. While adding too much Icy Hot to your skin once or twice is fine, using a lot of Icy Hot for long periods of time can give you adverse effects. When you use too much Icy Hot, your body absorbs a lot more of the medicine inside than you need, which can lead to poisoning. 
1 Apply a thin layer of Icy Hot 3 to 4 times per day. Always read the instructions on your Icy Hot, and follow the directions carefully. Spread a thin layer of Icy Hot on your skin, and rub it in until it’s fully absorbed. Don’t use Icy Hot more than 3 to 4 times per day.[4] 
2 Avoid using Icy Hot on sunburns or irritated skin. If your skin is already red, rashy, or irritated, Icy Hot will only make it worse. Only use Icy Hot on clear skin that isn’t sunburned to avoid any pain.[5] 
3 Don’t use other topical medicines when using Icy Hot. Other topical medications can have adverse effects when mixed with Icy Hot. If you’re using a topical medication on your skin, talk to your doctor before using Icy Hot.[6] Advertisement 