Introduction to Hydrogel Cooling Patches

The hydrogel cooling patch is a novel drug-delivery system based on hydrogel technology and is classified as a Class I medical device. It consists of a backing layer, a gel layer, and a release liner; the gel layer incorporates a next-generation hydrogel formulation alongside natural juniper essential oil.

 

The patch induces vasoconstriction through physical cooling while simultaneously delivering analgesic and anti-swelling effects via the transdermal absorption of juniper essential oil. Clinically, it is used for the physical cooling of closed soft-tissue injuries, providing an immediate temperature reduction of 4.2°C that is sustained for 6 to 8 hours. It also offers adjunctive therapeutic benefits in managing swelling during the acute phase of fractures, alleviating post-laser procedure pain, and supporting burn wound healing.