Numbing Cream for Aesthetics
Numbing for aesthetic procedures works differently to tattoo preparation. The product, the format, and the timing all shift depending on what's being done — and on whether your practitioner applies numbing as part of the procedure or expects you to self-prepare.
Numbing cream for microneedling
Comfort Gel — Platinum is the lead format for microneedling — targeted application, faster absorption, suitable for facial treatment areas. Most practitioners apply numbing as standard; confirm before self-applying.
See the full Numbing Cream for Microneedling guide for detailed application guidance.
Numbing cream for laser hair removal
For laser hair removal, cream is typically used over a wider area than gel suits. Apply to clean dry skin, cover with cling film, and follow the timing window specified by your provider. Some clinics handle numbing in-house — confirm before self-preparing.
Numbing cream for laser hair removal in the UK is available without a prescription — all Totally Numb products are cosmetic-grade and available to order online.
Format by procedure
| Procedure | Recommended format | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Microneedling | Comfort Gel | Faster absorption, targeted application area. |
| Laser hair removal | Numbing Cream | Wider coverage area, longer preparation window. |
| Injections / Needles | Comfort Gel | Targeted application, precise placement before needle contact. |
| Piercings | Comfort Gel | Before-session application to piercing site on unbroken skin. |
| Semi-Permanent Makeup | Comfort Gel | Targeted application before microblading, lip blush, or cosmetic tattooing. |
Practitioners and studios: The Professional Line offers the same formulations in studio-ready sizing — designed for professional use in tattoo and aesthetic settings.
Most aesthetic practitioners apply numbing as standard. Always confirm with yours before self-preparing — applying on top of clinic-applied numbing can cause irritation.
Gel typically takes 20–30 minutes under a light cover. Always follow the specific window your practitioner recommends — they'll know the protocol for the device they use.
You can — but format suits the procedure. Cream covers wider areas (laser); gel suits targeted areas (microneedling). Choosing gel over cream isn't choosing a weaker product — the format is about coverage, not strength.
For lip filler specifically there's an additional consideration around epinephrine in the local anaesthetic — see our Lip Fillers page for the full note.