15 Best Numbing Creams For Laser Hair Removal – 2024
Remove all unwanted hair painlessly and get smooth, soft skin for the longest time.
Dr. Anna Chacon is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with over 9 years of experience. She enjoys practicing all aspects of dermatology and is licensed to practice in 49 states. She is particularly interested in rural outreach and helping others in underserved areas obtain access to much-needed medical care.
Read full bio of Dr. Anna H. Chacon
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
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Laser hair removal method is one of the most popular ways to remove hair from your body permanently. While the results are impressive, many people experience discomfort and pain after the procedure. This is when using the best numbing cream for laser hair removal becomes necessary. These topical creams contain lidocaine that numbs the pain by preventing your nerves from receiving pain signals, making the procedure tolerable and less painful. Dr. Anna Chacon, a certified dermatologist, says, “You can apply it to the skin 20 to 30 minutes before the surgery. Once your skin is numb, the laser device will be adjusted by your skin technician based on the color of the skin, the thickness of the hair, and the region of the hair getting cured and then it’s showtime!” We have compiled a list of some of the top numbing creams you can use after your laser procedure. Scroll down for more information!
In This Article
Do Numbing Creams Work For Laser Hair Removal?
Yes. The ingredients used in topical anesthetic creams can effectively block the nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. Also, they do not affect the results of laser hair removal. These creams are usually applied before the laser hair removal treatment and are absorbed into the skin quickly. They numb the surrounding area within minutes.
Let’s find out the 15 best numbing creams for laser hair removal in the following section.
15 Best Numbing Creams And Sprays For Laser Hair Removal
1. Best Oil-Free Formula:Ebanel Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Cream
If you are looking for a quick-acting topical anesthetic cream, Ebanel Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Cream is the best option. It starts working in 5 minutes of application, peaks after 20 minutes, and can temporarily numb your skin for approximately 1 hour to the pain caused by skin and hair cosmetic procedures. This doctor-recommended pain-relief cream is made of lidocaine HCL 5% that prevents transmission of pain signals to the brain. Its blend has aloe vera, vitamin E, and lecithin to soothe and protect the skin from inflammation. Here is an informative video of a reviewer’s experience that tells you more about the benefits of this odorless product.
Key Ingredients: Lidocaine, Aloe vera, Vitamin E, and Lecithin
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- Water-based
- Non-greasy
- Odor-free
- Cruelty-free
- Child-proof packaging
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- None
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 10,367 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
2. Best Fast-Acting Formula:Clinical Resolution Laboratory Numb Master Topical Anesthetic Cream
When you are in need of easy-to-use numbing products, apply this Clinical Resolution Laboratory Numb Master Topical Anesthetic Cream. The water-based formula makes applying it easy and is highly recommended by reviewers. It offers rapid and effective pain relief with 5% lidocaine and is designed to be used for microdermabrasion, tattoo removal, and laser hair removal. This doctor-recommended topical anesthetic cream is infused with botanical ingredients like vitamin E and aloe vera that soothes and protects the skin from irritation. Also, it uses the liposomal encapsulation technology, which improves product absorption. This lidocaine-based cream numbs the area in 2-3 minutes of application, peaks after 20-25 minutes, and lasts for one hour.
Note: For enhanced numbing, repeat the application after 15 minutes.
Key Ingredients: Lidocaine, Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Lecithin
Pros
- Fast-acting formula
- Lightweight
- Doctor-recommended
- Long-lasting
- Non-oily
- Non-greasy
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Child-proof packaging
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May cause swelling
3. Best Water-Based Formula:Uber Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream
Give the doctor-formulated Uber Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream a try for a super-strong and painless hair removal experience. Its water-based formula gets absorbed quickly, shows its action in 20-25 minutes of application, and numbs sensation up to 1 hour. The maximum permitted 5% lidocaine dose in the formula blocks nerve endings to transfer pain signals to the brain. Additionally, this cream for the face and body combines propylene glycol to enhance skin penetration. It is also infused with vitamin E that moisturizes the skin and reduces inflammation. Check out this video for the tester’s experience and to learn how this product works.
Key Ingredients: 5% Lidocaine and Vitamin E
Pros
- Fast-absorbing formula
- Non-oily
- Water-based
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 4,045 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
Ebanel Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Cream Best Oil-Free Formula | Clinical Resolution Laboratory Numb Master Topical Anesthetic Cream Best Fast-Acting Formula | Uber Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream Best Water-Based Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 0.08 Pounds | - | 0.13 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 2.3 x 1.7 x 1.5 inches | 1 x 1 x 2 inches | - |
| Weight | 1.35 Ounces | 1.59 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 10,367 | 2,758 | 4,045 |
| Price | $16.89 | $16.25 | $16.89 |
4. Best Cruelty-Free Formula:Advanced Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream
If you are looking for a doctor-formulated product, Advanced Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream is a great choice. It gets absorbed into your skin as soon as you apply it. It is developed with 5% lidocaine, a strong ingredient used as an anesthetic lubricant for temporary pain relief. The formula also has vitamin E, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that moisturize the skin and prevent itchiness. This numbing cream reaches its full numbing ability within 20-25 minutes, and its effect lasts up to 1 hour.
Key Ingredients: 5% Lidocaine and Vitamin E
Pros
- Soothes the skin
- Fast-absorbing formula
- Water-based
- Non-oily
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Expensive
Remember5. Best Hypoallergenic:Dr. Numb Maximum Strength Pain Reliever
Dr. Numb Maximum Strength Pain Reliever is an over-the-counter topical anesthetic cream. It contains 5% lidocaine, which induces numbness on the skin and its surrounding tissues. It can be used to reduce the pain associated with skin procedures like laser hair removal. This numbing laser hair removal cream is completely reversible and does not have any residual effect on the nerve fibers. The rapid onset of action is nearly 10-15 minutes, and the effect lasts up to 2 to 4 hours. You can reapply it to prolong the numbness. It does not irritate the tissues and nerves. The doctor-recommended formula contains vitamin E for quicker skin recovery and has received multiple positive reviews online.
Key Ingredients: 5% Lidocaine and Vitamin E
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Unscented
- Quick-absorbing formula
- Long-lasting
- Non-greasy
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May cause a rash
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 3,151 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
6. Best Alcohol-Free Formula:Lidocane Plus Maximum Strength Pain Relieving Cream
Licodine Plus Maximum Strength Pain Relieving Cream is a hypoallergenic gel that works wonders on laser hair removal pain. It starts working as soon as you apply it to the skin. This numbing cream contains 100% pure aloe vera that hydrates and soothes the inflamed skin. This painless hair removal cream reaches its full numbing ability within 25 minutes, and its effect lasts for 1-2 hours.
Key Ingredients: 4% Lidocaine and Vitamin E
Pros
- Water-soluble
- Alcohol-free
- Menthol-free
- Petrolatum-free
- Camphor-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Synthetic vitamin-free
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Cons
- Not very long-lasting
7. Best Long-Lasting Effect:Numbskin Maximum Strength Pain Reliever
Dr. Numb Maximum Strength Pain Reliever is an over-the-counter topical anesthetic cream. It contains 5% lidocaine, which induces numbness on the skin and its surrounding tissues. It can be used to reduce the pain associated with skin procedures like laser hair removal. It is completely reversible and does not have any residual effect on the nerve fibers. The rapid onset of action is nearly 10-15 minutes, and the effect lasts up to 2 to 4 hours. You can reapply it to prolong the numbness. It does not irritate the tissues and nerves. The doctor-recommended formula contains vitamin E for quicker skin recovery and has received multiple positive reviews online.
Key Ingredients: 5% Lidocaine
Pros
- Fast-acting formula
- Long-lasting
- Non-irritating
- Water-based
- Non-oily
- Child-proof packaging
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May cause itchiness
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 2,019 great reviews on Amazon.
8. Best Non-Greasy Formula:Greencaine Blast Topical Anesthetic Gel
Greencaine Blast Topical Anesthetic Gel is the most preferred numbing cream by licensed beauty aestheticians. It is used to numb the pain caused by various procedures, including laser hair removal. It uses 4% lidocaine to numb the area immediately. It reduces the pain and anxiety associated with such procedures by numbing the area for up to 1 hour. This professional-grade, non-greasy numbing cream is also infused with aloe vera and jojoba oil that hydrate the skin and leave it smooth.
Key Ingredients: 4% Lidocaine, Aloe vera, and Jojoba oil
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Easy to apply
- Soothes the skin
- Child-proof packaging
Cons
- Expensive
9. Best Anti-Inflammatory:Everyday Medical Numbing Cream
The deep-penetrating Everyday Medical Numbing Cream lasts up to 4 hours. It contains 4% lidocaine and natural ingredients with skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that offer a long-lasting numbing effect. Its formula contains active ingredients like licorice to fight free radical damage and soothe sore skin. Its other soothing ingredients include aloe vera, tea tree oil, clove oil, and jojoba oil which provide hydration and calm down inflammation.
Key Ingredients: 4% Lidocaine, Aloe vera, Clove oil, Tree tea oil, and Jojoba oil
Pros
- Fast-acting formula
- Long-lasting
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Strong fragrance
10. Best Moisturizing:Maxocaine Pain Relieving Roll-On
The clinically-proven Maxocaine Pain-Relieving Roll-On is an instant numbing liquid cream. Its non-greasy formula paired with a precision applicator gets absorbed quickly and provides quick relief from pain. This multipurpose pain reliever is formulated with 4% lidocaine that targets pain-causing receptors, 1% menthol for a cooling effect, and moisturizing aloe vera. The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of this roll-on target the problem areas to alleviate pain and discomfort during laser removal of hair and has garnered positive customer reviews.
Key Ingredients: 4% Lidocaine, 1% Menthol, and Aloe vera
Pros
- Quick-drying formula
- Fast-acting formula
- Penetrates deep into the skin
- Non-greasy
- Easy to use
- Odor-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- None
11. Best Fuzz-Free Application:Ultra Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream
Want to get relief from pain during laser hair removal? You can achieve the smoothest body free of unwanted hair through laser hair removal with the UltraNumb Topical Anesthetic Cream that provides long-long pain relief up to 3-4 hours. This numbing laser hair removal cream gets absorbed quickly and reduces unnecessary pain. The water-based formula is non-oily and easy to apply.
Key Ingredients: 5% Lidocaine
Pros
- Non-oily
- Water-based formula
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Insufficient quantity for the price
12. Best Soothing Texture:Deeveeant Pain Relief Numbing Cream
Deeveeant Pain Relief Numbing Cream is great for laser hair removal procedures. It is formulated with 4% lidocaine and a triple botanical combination of aloe vera, tea tree extract, and jojoba. This rich blend moisturizes and soothes your skin, creating a refreshing feel and providing skin conditioning benefits. Its numbing action can last for up to 2 hours. The non-oily laser hair removal product gets absorbed into the skin quickly and does not behind leave any residue.
Key Ingredients: 4% Lidocaine, Aloe vera, Jojoba, and Tea-tree extract
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Non-oily
- Non-irritating
- Easy to use
- Child-proof packaging
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Not long-lasting
13. Best Deep-Penetrating Formula:Bravado Labs Topical Anesthetic Cream
The deep-penetrating Bravado Labs Topical Anesthetic Cream works like a charm for safe and effective laser hair removal. It contains 5% lidocaine, the highest amount allowed without a prescription. Apply a thick layer of this numbing cream and wrap the area in plastic. Its deep-penetrating formula works effectively for up to 2 hours. It numbs the skin within 30 minutes and is highly recommended by reviewers.
Key Ingredients: 5% Lidocaine
Pros
- Fast-acting formula
- Penetrates the skin deeply
- Allergy-tested
- Easy to apply
- Non-greasy
- Child-proof packaging
Cons
- None
14. Best For Skin Desensitizing:GiGi Anesthetic Numbing Spray
GiGi Anesthetic Numbing Spray can temporarily numb the area by desensitizing the skin. The 4% lidocaine in this numbing cream formulation blocks the nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. This non-staining spray is also infused with soothing ingredients that reduce skin irritation. Spray it on the target area for a pain-free laser hair removal experience. It penetrates into the skin quickly and numbs the desired area within 2-3 minutes.
Key Ingredients: 4% Lidocaine
Pros
- Easy to use
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- May irritate the skin
15. Best Non-Sticky:Topicaine Topical Anesthetic Gel
Topicaine Topical Anesthetic Gel contains 4% lidocaine that is useful in preventing pain caused during laser hair removal. It offers excellent results without letting you feel the pain. It numbs the skin with a rapid onset time of 30 minutes and lasts for up to 1 hour. Its formula also contains aloe vera and jojoba oil that leave your skin feeling smooth, soft, and moisturized after the procedure.
Key Ingredients: 4% Lidocaine, Aloe vera, and Jojoba oil
Pros
- Fast-acting formula
- Non-oily
- Easy to apply
- Long-lasting
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- None
If you want to avoid the pain caused by laser hair removal, these numbing creams are your best bet! Check out how to apply them in the next section.
Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “A numbing topical anesthetic may be given to the skin 20 minutes to half-an-hour before the surgery. The numbing topical anesthetic aids in reducing any pain or stinging caused by the laser pulses during therapy. The laser device will be adjusted by your skin technician based on the color of the skin, the thickness of the hair, and the region of the hair getting cured.”
How To Use Numbing Cream Before Laser Hair Removal?
1. Wash The Area:
Wash the area where you will be getting laser hair removal and scrub it clean to remove all dirt or oil. This makes the numbing more effective as your skin will be able to absorb the cream fully.
2. Wear Waterproof Gloves: Put on latex gloves that can block the cream from seeping in as this can cause your hands and fingertips to go numb.
3. Apply The Cream: Read the instructions provided and use only the recommended amount of cream.
4. Cover The Area With Plastic Wrap: Not all numbing creams ask for the area to be covered. However, a plastic wrap is used because the heat that is generated activates the cream and speeds up the numbing process.
5. Remove The Wrap: Leave the plastic wrap on for 30-40 minutes until the area is fully numb.
These are the steps to apply a numbing cream to your skin. But, before buying a numbing cream for laser hair removal, you should consider some important points. Scroll down to learn about them in detail.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Numbing Cream For Laser Hair Removal – Buying Guide
- Ingredients
Lidocaine is the active ingredient you commonly find in numbing creams. 5% of lidocaine is the best quantity for a numbing cream, which is very effective and provides fast results. Benzocaine and tetracaine are other commonly used ingredients in numbing creams.
- Water-based Formula
This is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a numbing cream for laser hair removal. Water-based formulas never feel greasy and are easy to remove. Also, check if the product is hypoallergenic. The cream you buy should not cause any irritation after application.
- Read The Label
Before buying a numbing cream for laser hair removal, read all the instructions carefully on the product label. It will give you a brief idea about how to use the product effectively. Follow the instructions as directed by the manufacturer to avoid side effects.
Infographic: Key Ingredients In Numbing Creams Used For Laser Hair Removal
Removing hair from your body using laser procedures need not end up causing itching or pain. Numbing creams temporarily deaden nerve endings to reduce pain before important procedures. However, before purchasing one, make sure to check out the ingredients used in these creams and whether the formulations are right for your skin.
The infographic below offers some insights into these ingredients for you to make an informed purchasing decision. Take a look! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Laser hair removal is one of the best permanent hair removal treatments. But it is not completely without pain or discomfort. Don’t let your fear of laser hair removal stop you from getting the unwanted hair-free body that you are dreaming of! Numbing creams can effectively block pain signals to reach the brain, thereby making you feel comfortable during the process. The Ebanel Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Cream protects the skin from inflammation, while the Clinical Resolution Laboratory Numb Master Topical Anesthetic Cream is doctor-recommended and perfect for those going through microdermabsion and tattoo removal. The Dr. Numb Maximum Strength Pain Reliever is quick-absorbing and whose effects last upto 2 to 4 hours. Pick one of your favorite numbing creams from the list and try it out at your next laser hair removal appointment for a pain-free session!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use numbing cream before laser hair removal?
Yes. Use numbing cream to remove the sensations from your skin shortly to help you get through painful laser hair removal sessions.
How do you make a laser less painful?
Tips to make your laser hair removal less painful:
• Stay hydrated to flush out the substances that aggravate your pain. Avoid drinking caffeine-rich beverages as they can cause discomfort.
• Consult a dermatologist and take medicines to reduce pain during the session.
• Shave beforehand to decrease the pain and reduce the risk of side effects.
• Apply numbing cream to eliminate any sense of pain.
• Do not scratch your skin to avoid inflammation.
Does laser hair removal get less painful over sessions?
The pain intensity depends on where you are getting the laser hair removal work done. For example, if you are removing your leg hairs, you will feel less pain as the skin is thicker on the legs, but if you are removing hairs on your face or the bikini line, you may experience moderate to severe pain.
Can you use numbing cream before Brazilian wax?
Yes. Apply numbing cream to your treatment area before 30 to 60 minutes of Brazilian waxing to reduce the pain and discomfort.
Does a laser hurt more if you don’t shave?
Yes. If you do not shave, the laser will singe your hair and develop skin burns. Even the laser may create temporary grazes on the epidermal layer.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The writer of this article, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach who covers skin care products. Given her knowledge and experience in the topic, she delivers articles that comprise quality products. She did extensive research to compile this list of the best numbing creams for laser hair removal for you. An essential factor in these creams is the ingredients that help fulfill the purpose. Hence she has included details about each product’s formulation and other key specifications. She has also included a buying guide to help you with your choice.
Read full bio of Dr. Anna H. Chacon
Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist with over 7 years of experience. She has authored many peer-reviewed articles and managed clinical research studies during her fellowship. She completed her medical school in the PLME (Program of Liberal Medical Education) at Brown University.Dr. Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist with over 7 years of experience. She has authored many peer-reviewed articles and managed clinical research studies during her fellowship. She completed her medical school in the PLME (Program of Liberal Medical Education) at Brown University.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda
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