Emla Article

The Dos and Don’ts of Numbing Cream

by | May 12, 2025

emla numbing cream on skin

Skin numbing creams – such as Emla – are a great way of making minor superficial cosmetic procedures and common needle procedures more comfortable.

Why? Because numbing creams contain local anaesthetics that help block nerve signals in your skin. When you use a topical local anaesthetic, you only lose sensation in the area of skin where the cream is applied – but don’t worry the numbing effect is only temporary!

Emla skin numbing cream contains a mixture of two commonly used local anaesthetics – lidocaine and prilocaine – that work together to help numb your skin quickly and for longer than when applied individually.

While numbing creams offer a convenient way to ease pain and discomfort, it’s important to use them correctly to get the maximum benefit. So, here are a few dos and don’ts to help ensure you get the best results.

Dos – some tips for using skin numbing cream correctly

application of numbing cream
  • Always read the instructions carefully before applying your numbing cream: Different products may use different anaesthetic concentrations or recommend different application methods and timings – so it’s important to get it right for your cream to ensure it works as it should.
  • Test your cream on a small area of skin first: Some people may be allergic to the local anaesthetic or one of the other ingredients in the cream, or perhaps the adhesive dressing used to cover the cream – so it’s a good idea to first patch test your cream ahead of time.
  • Make sure your skin is clean and dry: Before applying the cream, make sure the area is clean and dry to ensure the cream can work properly.
  • Apply the cream directly to the target area and cover: Apply the recommended amount of numbing cream directly from the tube onto the skin so that it covers the target area. Then place a waterproof dressing (such as cling-wrap) over the area to keep the cream in place. Make sure the dressing is firmly fixed, especially on young children.
  • Remember to follow the recommended timings: Be patient and follow the recommended application times – Emla skin numbing cream, for example, generally needs to be applied at least 1 hour before your procedure.

Refer to the Emla pack insert for more information or to learn more about how to apply Emla correctly.

Don’ts – some mistakes to avoid when using skin numbing creams

  • Do not rub the numbing cream into your skin or spread it out – just apply it directly to the target skin area, for example, where the injection is going to be or over the tattoo that is going to be removed.
  • Do not apply to broken skin.
  • Do not apply numbing creams near your eyes or other sensitive areas – unless the product specifically states it’s safe to do so – as this can cause irritation and serious problems, especially in children.
  • Do not rush things – skin numbing creams take time to work.
  • Do not apply skin numbing creams to large areas of your body (except on the advice of your healthcare professional). Using too much skin numbing cream may mean too much anaesthetic is absorbed which can cause unwanted side effects. Some of these can be serious.

For most procedures, it is very difficult to use too much Emla but be careful if you are having a treatment or procedure where larger amounts may be required, such as laser hair removal. Always follow the instructions in the pack insert which will guide you on the maximum amount of cream to use.

Learn more about how to apply Emla correctly.

Watch out for side effects

Skin numbing creams are generally well tolerated when used correctly, but like all medications some side effects can occur.

  • Side effects mainly occur when you use too much or you ingest the cream.
  • The most common side effect is mild skin irritation, which may include redness or swelling. If skin irritation does occur, stop using the cream immediately and seek medical attention.
  • If too much numbing cream is absorbed into the bloodstream, you could experience dizziness, blurred vision, or other serious symptoms such as breathing difficulties or seizures. This is why following the instructions and only using the recommended amounts of numbing cream is crucial.
  • Allergic reactions are rare but can sometimes be serious. If you experience breathing difficulties, swelling of your lips, tongue or throat, seek medical attention immediately.

If you have any concerns when using a skin numbing cream talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

Selecting the right numbing cream for you

woman using numbing cream

How do you ensure a skin numbing cream is the best fit for you? Choosing the right skin numbing cream involves various factors directly related to your particular needs, so make sure the numbing cream ticks all your boxes.

First, consider if it’s appropriate for your procedure. Then think about things such as how long you need the numbness to last, the area to be treated, and (if needed) whether it’s suitable for children.

Tick the boxes with Emla:

✔ Suitable for a range of common minor superficial cosmetic procedures and common needle procedures

✔ Contains two local anaesthetics for quick and lasting effects

✔ Ready to use, easy to apply

✔ Comes in both 5g and 30 g tubes – so handy for small or large areas

✔ Suitable for all the family – from newborns* to adults

Learn more about Emla skin numbing cream

*excluding premature babies