Espa is known for its wellness products, ranging from candles and diffusers to moisturisers and face masks. I’m a huge fan of the overnight hydration therapy, for being an intensive skincare product that offers a serious boost in hydration. My other favourite product is something that provides pain relief.
I have an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain and inflammation. While I take medication and have used Ibuprofen gel in the past, it can be hard to get quick relief. From ice packs to Epsom salt baths, I’ve tried pretty much everything.
So when Espa’s muscle rescue balm launched in 2018 (just as I was in the middle of a flare-up), I was intrigued to try it. While technically aimed at soothing tired and achy muscles, I quickly found it helped take the edge off my joint pain, too.
It contains an essential oil blend of eucalyptus, clove bud and peppermint. But what makes this muscle balm so good that I’d say it’s better than other topical pain relief? Keep reading to find out.
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Espa muscle rescue balm
Rating: 5/5
Size: 70g
Key ingredients: cocoa butter, coconut oil, beeswax, essential oil blend of clove bud, eucalyptus and peppermint
Why we love it
- Soothing
- Moisturising
- Refreshing
Take note
- Formula can stick to clothes
The balm is presented in a signature Espa-branded bottle with a twist-off lid. Although it takes a bit of effort to squeeze some of the product out, due to its thick consistency, a tiny amount goes a long way.
Its essential oil scent, a bracing blend of eucalyptus, clove and peppermint, is immediately noticeable. I like the fragrance and find its overpowering nature both refreshing and reviving. Plus, I sometimes put a tiny dab of it under my nose or on my temples, as this invigorating effect can also help ease a headache. However, it’s worth noting that the potent fragrance may not suit those who don’t like the individual scent elements.
I tend to use it most at night, for an unwinding ritual before bed. Thanks to the inclusion of cocoa butter and coconut oil, the balm is deeply moisturising and leaves a glossy layer on skin. My skin looks softened and nourished, which adds another element of comfort to tight or achy limbs.
Owing to its richness, the balm can leave a slight residue that may make clothes stick to you. So if I do use a bit during the day, I’m more sparing with the amount I apply to skin. However, the fact that it lingers is the reason I see long-lasting relief.
Once applied, it offers an intense, tingling feeling that makes the raw ache of my sore joints feel quickly comforted. Its invigorating scent brings a calming element, too, creating an almost-sleepy feeling of relaxation. This soothing relief helps calm that achy tiredness you can get after a long walk, workout or a busy day at the office.
I find its warmth helps to dull the impact of pain and this effect lasts for a few hours. I’d even go so far as to say that in my experience, Espa’s muscle rescue balm is better than Ibuprofen gel for easing aches and pains and offering uplifting comfort.
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Is Espa’s muscle rescue balm worth it?
Espa’s muscle balm is a staple in my routine that I regularly use for pain relief, headaches and to soothe tired muscles. A small amount of the balm goes a long way, offering a potent yet moisturising layer of calming skincare – and I think it’s well worth the price (especially now it’s reduced). Its essential oil scent provides an invigorating spa-like experience, and the formula is warming and comforting. If you’re looking for a multi-tasking product to help with aches and pains, I’d highly recommend this natural and luxurious alternative to medicinal options.
How I tested
I’ve been using Espa’s muscle rescue balm for eight years now. During this time, I’ve applied the balm to sore muscles and joints, and used it for a soothing boost on tired days or after a workout. In this time, I’ve taken note of its formula, consistency and the benefits the balm brings.
I’ve been using Espa’s muscle rescue balm for several years and during this time I’ve assessed:
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
IndyBest tests thousands of products to bring our readers genuine reviews and honest verdicts that help inform a purchase. Our skincare reviews are the result of hands-on testing by beauty experts, following specific criteria. We only publish first-hand praise for a product when it’s been tried, tested and approved by one of our reviewers.
Helen Wilson-Beevers is a beauty journalist with more than a decade of experience testing a wide range of skincare products. The brands she has tested in this time include Perricone MD, The Inkey List, Laura Mercier and The Body Shop. Helen is a busy mum in her forties who looks for skincare solutions that easily slot into a daily routine. But she also has an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain and inflammation, making her the perfect candidate for this review. It’s a product that she swears by.
