Understanding Skin Numbing Creams

Whether you’re getting a tattoo, microneedling, or treating a painful sunburn, skin-numbing creams can offer relief by dulling pain right at the source. These topical anesthetics are designed to block nerve signals and reduce sensation in a targeted area of skin. But while they’re easy to find at drugstores or online, not all numbing creams are created equal and improper use can carry serious risks.

Here’s what you need to know before using a skin-numbing cream, from how it works to when it’s time to call your doctor.

What Are Skin-Numbing Creams Used For?

Skin-numbing creams are versatile and used in both medical and cosmetic settings. Some of the most common uses include:

1. Before minor surgeries or procedures (e.g., skin biopsies, mammograms, injections)

2. Prior to cosmetic treatments, including:

   • Microneedling

   • Dermal filler injections

   • Laser hair removal

   • Waxing

   • Tattoos and piercings

3. For everyday skin discomfort, such as:

   • Sunburn

   • Scrapes and cuts

   • Insect bites

   • Cold sores

   • Rashes or irritation

   • Hemorrhoids

   • Sore throat (in spray or lozenge form)

Keep in mind numbing creams reduce pain, but they may not eliminate it entirely. You might still feel pressure or discomfort during procedures involving needles or heat.

Understanding the Active Ingredients

The most well-known active ingredient in numbing creams is lidocaine, which works quickly to block pain signals. Prescription formulas often contain 5% lidocaine, while over-the-counter versions may include 4% or less.

Other active ingredients include:

• Benzocaine – Found in products like Solarcaine and Lanacane

• Pramoxine – Found in Sarna Sensitive and Proctofoam

• Dibucaine – Found in Nupercainal

• Tetracaine – Used in Ametop gel and Viractin

Some prescription creams combine anesthetics with hydrocortisone, which helps reduce inflammation and itching.

OTC vs. Prescription Numbing Creams

Over-the-counter creams are convenient but usually contain lower concentrations of active ingredients. Prescription-strength options like Lidoderm patches or compounded creams are stronger and may be recommended for more intense or targeted pain relief.

Important to know:

• Not all OTC creams are FDA-approved.

• Some are considered FDA-compliant, meaning they follow certain guidelines but haven’t gone through formal approval.

• Prescription creams may be necessary for large treatment areas or specific procedures.

How to Use Numbing Cream Safely

To avoid side effects or potential complications, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions or the product’s packaging. General application steps include:

1. Clean the area with mild soap and warm water.

2. Gently dry the skin with a soft towel.

3. Apply a thin layer of cream, only as directed.

4. Avoid applying to broken, swollen, or irritated skin.

5. Keep away from the eyes, and wash hands immediately after applying.

6. Do not exceed the recommended amount or time doing so can lead to dangerous side effects.

If your provider recommends using a cream before a procedure, apply it exactly when instructed. Using it too early or for too long can cause over-absorption and increase risks.

Storage Tips

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and humidity.

• Keep the cap tightly closed.

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Potential Side Effects

When used correctly, side effects are usually mild. But you might notice:

• Temporary skin discoloration

• Mild burning or stinging

• Itching or rash

To soothe discomfort, rinse the area with cool (not cold) water and pat dry gently.

When to Call a Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider right away if you or your child experience:

• Severe burning or irritation

• Bruising or purple discoloration

• Dizziness or drowsiness

• Blurred vision or ringing in the ears

• Swelling or redness

Seek emergency care (call 911) if you notice:

• Hives, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing (signs of an allergic reaction)

• Confusion or loss of consciousness

• Rapid heartbeat

• Seizures or convulsions

Overuse or applying large amounts of numbing cream can lead to systemic absorption, which may cause life-threatening complications including respiratory failure or coma.

Bottom Line

Skin-numbing creams can be effective tools for easing discomfort from medical and cosmetic procedures, as well as everyday skin irritations. But they’re powerful medications that should be used with care. Always follow application instructions closely, and don’t hesitate to talk to your provider if you’re unsure about which product is right for you or how to use it safely.

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