Smart Topicals 101 | Where to Apply Horse Care Products | Draw It Out®

 

 

Draw It Out® — Use Smarter, Ride Better

Smart Topicals Guide

Grab the right product in seconds—and layer it the right way. This guide breaks down gel vs. barrier cream vs. skin therapy & kinesiology support, so your routine stays calm, clean, and show-friendly.

Shop 16oz High Potency Gel Rapid Relief Restorative Cream SilverHoof EQ Therapy® EQUINE | DEFENDER

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Goal

Pre/Post-Ride Comfort

Use: 16oz Gel — sensation-free, odorless, wrap-friendly once absorbed. Stays where you put it.

Goal

Wet, Dirty Conditions

Use: Rapid Relief Cream — water-resistant barrier mindset for cannon crud, mud, rub zones.

Goal

Skin Support Mindset

Use: SilverHoof EQ Therapy® — targeted skin support per label (not on open eyes/mucosa).

Goal

Movement Support

Use: EQUINE | DEFENDER — apply after gel absorbs; intact skin only; follow tape directions.

Layering Rule of 3: Thin Gel → Absorb → (Optional) Barrier Cream on problem spots → (Optional) Tape on dry, intact skin. Avoid adding product directly under high-friction tack if it could reduce security.

Smart Layering (2–3 Minutes)

  1. Prep: Brush clean and dry; quick scan for heat/fill/rubs.
  2. Gel First: Thin, even layer on fronts/shoulders, back/SI & loins, and hindquarters/hamstrings. Massage in; allow full absorption.
  3. Barrier Where It Matters: If turnout is wet/muddy, add Rapid Relief Cream only to exposed problem zones.
  4. Tape Last (as directed): Apply EQUINE | DEFENDER to dry, intact skin; no wet product underneath.

Wraps? Intact skin, full absorption, wipe excess, correct tension. Monitor heat.

Do / Don’t

  • Do use sensation-free gel for sensitive horses and tight show barns.
  • Do keep products off eyes, mucosa, and open wounds.
  • Do avoid slick layers under saddle/girth panel contact.
  • Don’t stack heavy products under wraps.
  • Don’t tape over wet product or compromised skin.

Quick Comparison: Sensation-Free vs. Menthol/Capsaicin

Sensation-Free (e.g., 16oz Gel)

Calm, Clean, Show-Friendly

  • No sting/hot–cold tingle; fewer surprises.
  • Odorless, colorless—no perfume cloud or dye transfer.
  • Wrap-friendly once absorbed; stays where you put it.
  • Built for daily programs and sensitive routines.
Menthol/Capsaicin

Perceived Cool/Warm & Scented

  • Noticeable tingle; not ideal for every horse.
  • Often scented; may leave residue or dye.
  • Can slide more when warmed under gear.
  • Preference- and program-dependent.

Fix-it Fast

“It feels greasy under tack.”

Use less gel; allow full absorption; wipe excess. Keep product off exact saddle/girth contact if it reduces security.

Fix-it Fast

“Wraps got hot.”

Use thinner application, ensure dry skin before wrapping, recheck tension, shorten duration, and monitor.

Fix-it Fast

“Horse is reactive.”

Stop, rinse with water, and reassess fit/workload. Consult your vet for medical concerns.

Safety first: Topicals are part of a grooming comfort routine—not a treatment for disease. See your veterinarian for diagnosis and medical care. Intact skin only.

FAQ

Can I gel, then apply barrier cream, then tape?

Yes—thin gel first, let it fully absorb, spot-apply barrier cream, let it set, then apply EQUINE | DEFENDER per directions on dry, intact skin. Avoid building slick layers under high-friction tack.

Under polos or standing wraps?

Yes—after full absorption. Keep layers thin; monitor heat and tension; avoid open skin.

Travel-day routine?

Light gel on fronts and hamstrings before loading (absorb fully). After hauling, walk out, rescan legs/back, and reapply thinly as needed.

How often?

Many riders use gel pre- and post-ride and on travel days. Stop if irritation occurs; discuss persistent issues with your veterinarian, farrier, saddle-fitter, and trainer.


Use smarter. Layer cleaner. Ride better.

Build a routine that fits real barns and real schedules—no sting, no smell, wrap-friendly once absorbed.

Shop Draw It Out® 16oz Gel Rapid Relief Cream SilverHoof EQ Therapy® EQUINE | DEFENDER

Not a drug. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Always confirm tack security and follow your discipline’s rules.