I didn't get this exact brand but it's exactly the same setup. I don't know what's inside of it, I mean exactly what type of gel, but it is probably cold enough for most people without even putting it in the freezer.When you do put it in the freezer it is EXTREMELY cold! The only thing you have to be cautious about is when you're going around my neck. I have short hair and the first time I used it I didn't pull my hair back and it snagged my hair in it when it was going around...so make sure you get your hair out of the way so it doesn't give you an unexpected trim at the same time. I wouldn't call it a negative it's just a preparation thing. I'm going to get this set because I had a set of two and already lost one to a friend of mine when I was showing it off and he tried it on his bum knee. It's fun to see somebody use it for the first time because it blows their mind at how cold it is when it didn't come out of the icebox.Just be prepared if you go showing it off you're going to lose one. I have Degenerative Disc Disease in my neck. I know you're not supposed to crack your own neck, but after 30 plus years I don't think I'm going to stop now. I usually take a cold soda bottle and leave it against my neck and after a few minutes I can crack it...now I use this and I just really work the muscle for a little bit and I don't even feel the need to crack it afterwards ...it's pretty cool! I also shattered my knees in a car accident and it helps just to have the cool on it without pressing down too hard. I can't handle a really cold ice pack ion my knees...it's just too much, but using these at room temperature is perfect.I have seen ones with handles on them... if you have a hard reach spot on your back they do sell attachment handles or you can buy them already on it. I don't know what this company has but for your neck and other areas this is better I think. I hope you like it as much as I do!