One area of concern for most folks is the pain.
Meet the Experts
What Are Numbing Creams?
Skin-numbing creams are topical anesthetic creams that can be applied to help to numb an area of skin.
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Compounded and prescription topical numbing agents also contain other anesthetics.
When compounded and used in-office, Gee says lidocaine is often combined with benzocaine or tetracaine for maximal effect.
These ingredients together are much stronger at anesthetizing than when used alone," she adds.
Numbing Creams for Tattoo Treatments
Tattoos are notoriously painful both during and after their utility.
Second, opt for a prescription numbing cream applied in the office as they are most effective.
The first and most obvious is the strength of the formulation.
“The maximal lidocaine concentrations in over-the-counter formulations is four percent.
The maximal lidocaine concentration in a prescription dispensed by physician for home program is five percent.
Zubritsky agrees and adds that prescription numbing creams are significantly more potent and effective.
“These contain other ingredients or are compounded with stronger percentages of active anesthetics,” she says.
So why not just give the strongest possible numbing creams to patients to bring to their tattoo appointment?
It’s unfortunately not safe, shares Gee.
They need to be used in caution in children.”
There are some mild side effects that may accompany numbing cream use.
Gee adds that side effects may also include ringing of the ears, lightheadedness, blurry vision and nausea.
But since tattoos can be large and take up large surface areas, this is applicable here too."
Severe toxicity includes seizures, hallucinations, and even death, cautions Gee.
“Lidocaine toxicity at high doses can be fatal.
