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The best numbing creams for microneedling at home should be strong enough to lessen the sting of an at-home treatment.
The problem is finding one strong enough to work that doesn’t require a prescription.
Personally, I use Zensa Numbing Cream because it starts working within about 20 minutes, has a nice smooth texture, and is easily absorbed into the skin. You also don’t need much of it, which is good because it is a little pricey.
Keep reading and discover the best numbing creams for microneedling, why you don’t need prescription strength, how to use the cream properly and safely (without wasting a bunch of it), and where to order the cream online.
I’ve also included information on pain perception and microneedling expectations when performing the procedure at home versus at a clinic.
Disclaimer
The use of numbing creams for microneedling procedures should be done with caution. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any topical anesthetic, especially products containing lidocaine or similar ingredients. Overuse or misuse can lead to serious side effects. This product is intended for cosmetic use only. Do not attempt deeper microneedling or apply numbing agents without proper guidance or training.
You Don’t Need a Prescription Strength Numbing Cream for Microblading at Home and Here’s Why!
If you’re thinking about microneedling at home, chances are you’ve already searched for the best numbing creams for microneedling. It makes sense.
Nobody wants to feel like they’re dragging tiny needles across their face without something to dull the sting.
I agree that good-quality numbing creams for microneedling will make the process more comfortable, I don’t believe you need to spend hours searching for a prescription-grade cream.
The Reason Might Surprise You
The reason you don’t need prescription strength numbing creams for microneedling at home has to do with the needle length. For example, someone authorized to perform microneedling services in a clinical setting uses needles that range from 1.0 – 3.0 mm in length.
Longer needles penetrate deeper into the dermis, causing more pain than at home-devices.
Even the best quality at-home microneedling device should only have needles that reach the superficial layers of the skin. These are typically around .25 mm, which is considerably shorter than a medical grade device.
Why You Shouldn’t Use Medical Grade Microneedling Pens At Home
Even if you have access to a medical grade microneedling pen, don’t be tempted! Longer needles are more effective for treating deep scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks, but performing the service on yourself leaves you at high risk of injury and serious infection.
Using a medical grade microneedling pen on yourself can result in:
- nerve or blood vessel damage
- infection
- scarring
- post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Read: Who Can Perform Microneedling (American Med Spa Association)
The Risks of Using Prescription-Grade Numbing Creams for Microneedling At Home
Before researching this article, I wouldn’t have known that a prescription grade numbing cream could cause any harm. In my mind, it would just work better at numbing my skin.
I couldn’t have been more wrong!
They can affect the central nervous system and the heart
Lidocaine, prilocaine, and similar anesthetics are designed to block pain nerve signals. However, if too much is absorbed into the bloodstream, it can negatively impact your central nervous system and heart.
High concentrations of lidocaine (5% or more) can cause serious side effects including seizures, cardiac arrest, and even death.
Read: Lidocaine Can Cause Harmful Effects by Poison Control
You could easily overdo an at-home microneedling without the safety mechanism of a pain response
Pain is nature’s way of telling us to pay attention. If you’ve used a strong numbing cream, you may not feel any discomfort at all during your at-home microneedling session. In theory, that sounds great! No pain!
Unfortunately, without those warning signals, you can easily do too much. The results could include:
- skin barrier damage by pressing too hard or going too deep
- microneedling for too long
- using it on already irritated or inflamed skin without noticing
- creating microtears on your skin
- broken capillaries
- raw or wounded skin
- increased sensitivity or permanent skin damage
- increase the risk of serious infection
Why can it be used in a clinical setting if it’s so dangerous?
Clinics can safely use higher-strength numbing creams because they’re applied by trained medical professionals.
These people have been trained to dose based on patient’s weight, treatment area, and health history. It’s also performed in a controlled, sterile environment with precise timing and removal to minimize the risks of absorption.
In addition, clinicians can recognize early signs of lidocaine toxicity and have emergency protocols and medications on hand if needed.
Is It Safe to Use Over-The-Counter Numbing Creams for Microneedling at Home?
Even the best numbing creams for microneedling at home have their risks. However, they are considered a safer alternative because they contain less lidocaine (typically no more than 5%).
That said, you still have to be careful. Over the counter numbing creams for microneedling still do an amazing job of numbing the skin.
Here’s what happened to my skin after using an OTC numbing cream
I used an OTC numbing cream once before using an at-home laser hair remover. Both the laser and the numbing cream are safe when used as directed. However, it didn’t occur to me that just because I couldn’t feel any pain didn’t mean I wasn’t burning my skin.
Within 24 hours of using the laser remover over the same spot (many times), I ended up with red, burned, itchy skin. I didn’t go to a doctor for treatment (another no-no!) and there weren’t any lasting damages that I can see.
My point is that you can seriously hurt yourself without that spark of pain telling you to call it quits. I didn’t use a prescription numbing cream and I still ran into trouble.
LEARN EVERYTHING YOU CAN ABOUT YOUR COSMETIC TREATMENTS!
The more information you have about your cosmetic treatments, the better positioned you’ll be to ask smart questions. Read these posts before your consultation:
5 Pros and Cons of Microneedling vs a Chemical Peel
5 Advanced Benefits of Aquagold vs Microneedling
4 Best Dermal Fillers for Over 50 – Expert Guide
13 Aftercare Issues Of Getting A Massage After Botox
Why You May Not Need OTC Numbing Creams For Microneedling At Home
When you go to a spa, the technician uses devices that go deeper into the skin, usually around 1.0 to 2.5 mm. Clearly, this is going to cause a fair amount of discomfort (in my opinion).
The deeper the needle, the more effective the treatment, but also the more intense the pain. Numbing cream becomes essential once you go past 0.5 mm. It helps you sit through the process without flinching or giving up halfway.
In most countries (including the U.S., Canada, UK, and EU nations), microneedling pens for at-home use are limited by needle depth of 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm. Yes, you’ll still feel discomfort, but it may not be enough to warrant a numbing cream. Ultimately, the choice is yours.
Pain perceptions vary from person to person. A mild sting to one person could feel like an unbearable pain to someone else. The important thing is to remember that just because you can’t feel pain, doesn’t mean your skin isn’t being affected. Be careful!
SOURCE: FDA.gov – Microneedling Devices: Getting to the Point on Benefits, Risks and Safety
How to Properly Use Numbing Cream Before At-Home Microneedling
Using numbing cream the right way makes a huge difference. Start by cleaning your face thoroughly. You don’t want any dirt or makeup interfering.
Apply a thick layer of numbing cream to the target area. Some people cover it with plastic wrap to help it absorb more effectively. Wait about 20 to 30 minutes. You should start to feel a tingling or numb sensation. That’s your sign it’s working.
Before you start microneedling, wipe the cream off completely with a clean cloth or paper towel. You don’t want to push the cream into your skin with the needles. That can cause irritation. Follow your microneedling routine as usual, then apply a gentle, hydrating serum after you’re done.
Important safety tips:
- Don’t use numbing cream on broken or irritated skin.
- Always patch test a small area first.
- Avoid going overboard just because you can’t feel anything.
Carefully read and follow the instructions on your microneedling pen and the numbing cream you choose to use.
Can OTC Numbing Creams for Microneedling Cause Allergic Reactions?
Yes, numbing creams can cause allergic reactions ranging from mild to life-threatening. It’s always a good idea to test a small amount on a patch of skin and wait 24 hours to see if or how you react.
Seek Medical Advice (Non-Emergency) If You Experience:
- Persistent skin redness, itching, or swelling that doesn’t improve
- Blistering or peeling of the skin
- Numbness lasting longer than expected (especially if >2–3 hours)
- Headache, nausea, or confusion after using a topical anesthetic
- Tingling or burning sensations beyond the treated area
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Show Signs of a Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis):
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Hives or rash spreading rapidly
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness or fainting
- Tightness in the chest or throat
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
5 Best Numbing Creams for Microneedling You Can Buy OTC
The following numbing creams for microneedling are available to purchase over the counter. They are considered safe to use as directed. Always follow the instructions on the container.
1. Ebanel Numb 520
Ebanel Numb 520 contains 5% lidocaine and kicks in fast. Most users feel numb in under 20 minutes. It also includes aloe vera and vitamin E to soothe the skin, which is helpful post-treatment. It’s non-oily, easy to spread, and widely available online.
How to use: Apply a thick layer to clean skin, wait 20 to 25 minutes, then wipe off before microneedling.
2. Dr. Numb
Dr. Numb is another 5% lidocaine cream that’s popular for tattooing and microneedling. It has a good track record for numbing effectiveness and doesn’t leave behind a greasy residue. It’s also FDA-certified for over-the-counter use.
How to use: Clean and dry the skin, apply the cream generously, wait 30 minutes, then remove before treatment.
3. LMX 4 or LMX 5
LMX is available in both 4% and 5% lidocaine versions. It’s a bit pricier but backed by clinical testing. It absorbs quickly and works well for sensitive skin. Many users report strong numbing with minimal irritation.
How to use: Apply to the skin for about 30 minutes before microneedling. Remove thoroughly.
4. Zensa Numbing Cream (MY FAVE)
Zensa contains 5% lidocaine and is designed with sensitive procedures in mind, including microneedling and laser treatments. It’s made with natural ingredients like vitamin E and is known for being gentle on the skin.
I’ve used this and it works really well. My skin was numb within 25 minutes of applying.
How to use: Apply a thick layer to clean skin. Leave on for 30 to 40 minutes. Wipe off before starting.
5. Numb Master
Numb Master is fast-acting and also contains 5% lidocaine. It’s a favorite for at-home treatments because it’s budget-friendly and effective. It’s water-based and spreads easily without a strong chemical smell.
How to use: Apply a visible layer, cover with plastic wrap if desired, and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes. Remove before using your device.
Summary
The best numbing creams for microneedling shouldn’t contain more than 5% lidocaine. Over the counter numbing creams can still cause problems if not used properly.
When using numbing creams, make sure to follow the instructions on the package. It’s also a great idea to do a patch test and wait 24 hours to see if you have a reaction to the cream. Allergic reactions range from mild to life-threatening.
And finally, when using numbing cream for microneedling at home, remember that just because you can’t feel any pain doesn’t mean you’re not hurting your skin. Be careful not to push too hard on the microneedle or spend extensive times covering one area of your face.
With these safety tips in mind and a little common-sense, your at-home microneedling sessions should be safe and pain-free.
Sources:
- FDA guidelines on topical anesthetics: fda.gov
- Microneedling safety overview: American Academy of Dermatology (aad.org)