If you're looking for a way to make laser hair removal less painful, look no further!
We've updated our list of the best topical numbing creams for laser hair removal that will help take the edge off the pain in a flash!
With a little bit of skin numbing cream, you'll be able to tolerate the procedure much better, achieve better results, and control pain after treatment.
Before you scroll through our favorite topical creams, watch this short video about being prepared with 5 facts about planning for laser hair removal.
In addition to FAQs about numbing creams, you'll also find some extra FAQs about the laser hair removal process at the end of this article.
How We Choose Our Favorites
Laser hair removal gets more and more popular as technology advances, but many people still have pain and discomfort following their procedures.
When we are choosing a quality numbing cream, it's important to select a topical anesthetic that is strong enough to block the pain signal that the nerves are sending to the brain.
We're also looking for something that is hypoallergenic and absorbs quickly without a lot of oily residue.
It needs to be formulated to numb quickly and provide a lasting effect.
So, how do you find all that without hours scrolling through the internet?
You scroll through our favorites instead!
When it comes to pain, we know you need the best product possible! We've spent hours researching and learning from people like you to bring you these 4 recommendations.
All of these favorites are affordable, readily available, and do not require a prescription, so read on to see which will be best for you!
An important note: With all recommendations in this post, please refer to the product packaging and discuss usage instructions with your laser treatment provider who will have the best recommendation based on your specific treatment needs and health conditions.
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Why It's A Winner
Numb Master is a safe and effective way to numb your skin before laser hair removal procedures. Liposomal technology is used to enrich this cream with soothing Aloe Vera, Lecithin, and Vitamin E.
This doctor recommened product is great for all skin types. This cream is a water-based formula that is non-irritating, non-sticky, non-oily, and non-greasy, ensuring a comfortable experience.
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This 4-ounce jar of maximum strength 5% lidocaine formula is safe to use on sensitive skin and starts numbing in just 3-5 minutes.
You'll reach the maximum numbing effect within 20-25 minutes, and the pain relief will last for 1-2 hours. No prescription is needed!
If interested, be sure to check out Numb Master reviews!
Numb Master is also great for reducing pain during tattoo removal, waxing, or other cosmetic procedures. If you're looking for fast, effective pain relief, try it today!
View Up-To-Date Verified Purchase ReviewsVisit the Clinical Resolution Laboratory Store
Introducing NUMB520 Cream with maximum strength topical lidocaine for fast-acting, long-lasting pain relief.
This unique formula is enhanced with Liposomal Technology for deeper penetration and maximum efficacy.
It begins numbing in 3-5 minutes, peaks after 20-25 minutes and lasts for up to 1 hour from its peak.
The cream is infused with Aloe Vera and Vitamin E to soothe and protect the skin from irritations. It is also odor-free, oil-free, and non-greasy. Best of all, it is water-based for easy application and no-mess removal.
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The NUMB520 Spray is formulated with 5% lidocaine and 0.25% phenylephrine. This topical anesthetic spray temporarily relieves pain, itching, soreness, and burning, and reduces swelling, and protects irritated skin.
It numbs in 2-3 minutes; peaks after 20-25 minutes; lasts for 1 hour from its peak. Odor-free, oil-free & non-greasy. Water-based numb spray for easy, no-touch application.
View Up-To-Date Verified Purchase ReviewsVisit the Ebanel Laboratories Store
Why It's A Winner
Looking for a topical anesthetic that is fast-acting and long-lasting? Dr. Numb topical anesthetic is 100% hypoallergenic and a great solution.
It starts to work in about 15 minutes and will continue working for somewhere between 2 to 4 hours.
Formulated with maximum potency in mind, our cream is perfect for those who need relief from pain or discomfort.
Made with lidocaine 5% and vitamin E, our cream is gentle on the skin while producing temporary numbness.
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If you're looking for the best numbing cream for laser hair removal, this fast-absorbing numbing formulation is 100% cream-based for a soft, moisturizing feel, and you won't have to worry oily skin.
Best of all, this reliable cream is recommended by healthcare professionals.
View Up-To-Date Verified Purchase ReviewsVisit the Dr. Numb Store
Why It's A Winner
Looking for a painless laser hair removal experience?
Numbskin numbing cream is your solution! This fast-acting cream will numb the area to be treated in 15-30 minutes, so you can enjoy a comfortable, pain-free session.
Made with natural ingredients, Numbskin is safe and gentle on your skin. It's the perfect way to achieve the smooth, soft body of your dreams!
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This cream is cruelty-free; no animals were used for testing. This product has a child-resistant cap, ensuring that your family is kept safe.
When it comes to laser hair removal, you can be confident that you are getting a product that is both an effective and safe way to get rid of unwanted hair.
View Up-To-Date Verified Purchase ReviewsVisit the NumbSkin Store
Numbing Cream FAQs
It seems like there's an awful lot you need to know to choose the best numbing product for your laser hair removal!
Sometimes, you don't even know what to ask!
We've included some of our most frequently asked questions to provide you as much information as possible!
We want to know that you are making the right choice for you!
What kind of numbing cream can I use for laser hair removal?
There are many over-the-counter numbing creams containing 4-5% Lidocaine which is the primary active ingredient to help reduce pain signals. A few contain additional ingredients to soothe and moisturize treated skin.
You can also find a numbing gel for laser hair removal. The gel form is less common, but can often be found containing 4% lidocaine. We have not included one in this review because we didn't find a well-reviewed product.
There are also prescription strength options that are often provided through your laser hair removal professional.
In the end, the best numbing cream for epilating will contain 4-5% lidocaine.
Can you put numbing cream on before laser hair removal?
If you do an internet search, you will see two opposite answers to this question!
Many suggest that you should put it on before the procedure to help reduce pain during the treatments, but many others suggest this can negatively affect results and that it should only be used to manage post-procedure discomfort.
There is also a common suggestion that involves applying the cream in a thick layer and covering it with plastic wrap that is not necessarily recommended for laser hair removal.
Most likely, the answer will depend upon the type of laser, the location and size of the treatment area, and the provider's preference based on education and experience.
In most cases, it seems that using the cream to control pain after the procedure is acceptable common practice.
In any case, you need to consult your provider for the recommendation that will be most appropriate for your treatment plan.
Does numbing cream affect laser hair removal results?
The information provided on the internet is unclear. Some say the cream will affect results and other say it will not.
It is very important to consult your provider for the recommendation that will be best for your treatment type and duration.
Can I use lidocaine for laser hair removal?
Lidocaine is the most common active ingredient in over-the-counter numbing creams used for laser hair removal. Prescription strength creams are usually a triple anesthetic cream.
You need to consult your laser hair removal provider to get the best recommendation for using numbing creams before, during, or after your laser treatments.
Laser Hair Removal FAQs
If you’re thinking about investing in some laser hair removal, you probably have lots of questions!
Choosing a laser hair removal treatment isn't always so simple! These are a few of the most commonly asked questions about this type of procedure.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Essentially, a laser sends a light beam onto your skin. This light beam energy is converted into heat which will damage the hair follicles.
The damage reduces or eliminates the ability of the hair follicle to grow more hair.
Because the follicles are damaged instead of destroyed completely, there is still a chance that the follicle can produce hair. However, this usually results in thinner, lighter hair which may never return or may take years.
For this reason, undergoing laser hair removal laser hair removal is considered a semi-permanent treatment. Either way, it is a big time-saver compared to traditional shaving and waxing!
Your professional provider will be able to give you the most accurate expectation based on your treatment plan.
Are Laser Hair Removal Treatments Safe?
A laser hair removal procedure is generally considered to be safe and non-invasive.
The most common laser hair removal painful side effects are rare but can include scarring, blisters, and burns.
Using a professional, experienced provider will give you the best results.
Discussing your concerns with the provider prior to treatment will help you to have a good understanding of any possible risk or side effect.
Does Laser Removal Hurt?
This is the first question everyone asks! I have done a scientific poll, but I'm sure you can believe it!
The lasers require you to wear safety goggles and it sounds like a whole lot of bug zapping!
For many clients, the treatment itself is uncomfortable, but not necessarily painful. It's often described as feeling like a rubber band is hitting your skin. It's also considered to be less painful than waxing.
Of course, all of these observations are subjective and will depend upon an individual's pain tolerance, the location and size of the area being treated, and the type of laser used at your laser hair removal session.
You will be able to discuss expectations and ask your provider questions before choosing the treatment that is best for you.
Is Laser Hair Removal Effective?
There were over 4 million laser hair removal procedures performed in 2019! Most patients have noticeable results by their third appointment.
Effectiveness will vary by skin type, number of laser hair removal sessions needed, location and size of the area to be treated, and the type of laser being used.
Your professional provider will be able to give you realistic expectations for your personal needs and treatment plan.
A Final Word or Two
We hope we've been able to shed a little light on choosing the best numbing cream for your needs.
When checking for price and value, be sure to check the jar size. Often a higher-priced product is about 4 ounces, while a less expensive choice may be only 1-2 ounces.
Be sure to choose the size based on the amount of treatment you are expecting.
If you still aren't sure which cream is best for you, scroll back through the options above or use the quick links below to get more information or current pricing.
Products Mentioned In This Article:
Best Enriched with Aloe, Lecithin, and Vitamin ENumb Master 5% Lidocaine Topical Numbing Cream 4.2 oz size.Numb Master 5% Lidocaine Topical Numbing Cream 1.25 oz size.Visit the Clinical Resolution Laboratory Store
Best Fastest-Acting Cream and Spray SetEbanel Liposomal NUMB520 Set of 2 Includes Spray and CreamVisit the Ebanel Laboratories Store
Best Long-Lasting, HypoallergenicDr. Numb Maximum Relief Pain RelieverVisit the Dr. Numb Store
Best MoisturizingNumbskin Numbing Cream - 5% Lidocaine Topical Anesthetic CreamVisit the NumbSkin Store
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