Can You Put Numbing Cream Anywhere? A Guide to Safe Application

The FDA has issued warnings to multiple companies for marketing over-the-counter (OTC) numbing creams with illegally high concentrations of lidocaine [1.5.2, 1.5.4]. This raises the critical question: can you put numbing cream anywhere safely? The answer is a definitive no.

Quick Summary

Using topical numbing cream requires caution. It should only be applied to small areas of intact, clean skin. Avoid application on broken skin, mucous membranes, or large body surfaces to prevent dangerous side effects and systemic toxicity.

Key Points

• Not for Everywhere: The definitive answer is no; numbing cream cannot be applied anywhere. It's unsafe for large areas, broken skin, and mucous membranes [1.2.3, 1.2.4].

• Broken Skin is a No-Go: Never apply topical anesthetics to cuts, scrapes, rashes, or otherwise damaged skin, as this dramatically increases absorption and risk [1.6.2, 1.6.3].

• Beware Mucous Membranes: Avoid application in or near the eyes, mouth, nose, and genitals unless specifically directed by a doctor, due to rapid absorption and potential irritation [1.2.1, 1.2.2].

• Systemic Toxicity is a Real Danger: Over-application can lead to Local Anesthetic Systemic Toxicity (LAST), causing seizures, cardiac arrest, and death [1.4.1, 1.4.4].

• Less is More: Use the smallest amount possible on the smallest area necessary for the shortest time recommended to minimize risks [1.2.3, 1.2.4].

• Heed FDA Warnings: The FDA warns consumers against using OTC products with over 4% lidocaine and those from unapproved marketers due to serious safety concerns [1.5.2, 1.5.4].

• Consult a Professional: Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using a numbing product to ensure it's appropriate and safe for your intended use [1.6.2].

The Decisive Answer: Why You Can't Put Numbing Cream 'Anywhere'

Topical anesthetics, commonly known as numbing creams, are valuable tools for managing pain during minor medical and cosmetic procedures like tattoos, piercings, and injections [1.9.1]. They work by blocking nerve signals in the skin, creating a temporary loss of sensation [1.6.4]. However, their convenience belies significant risks if used improperly. The active ingredients, such as lidocaine, benzocaine, and tetracaine, can be absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to serious health issues [1.6.2]. The answer to "Can you put numbing cream anywhere?" is no. Application is restricted to specific areas and conditions to prevent adverse effects.

Prohibited and High-Risk Application Zones

Incorrect application dramatically increases the risk of both local and systemic side effects. You should never apply numbing cream to the following areas without explicit direction from a healthcare professional:

• Broken or Damaged Skin: Do not apply cream to skin that is cracked, scraped, cut, burned, or has a rash [1.2.3, 1.6.2, 1.6.6]. Damaged skin absorbs the anesthetic much more rapidly, increasing the risk of toxicity [1.6.1].
• Mucous Membranes: Avoid applying numbing cream inside the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or on genitals unless the product is specifically designed for that use and recommended by a doctor [1.2.1, 1.3.2]. Absorption through these sensitive tissues is very high.
• Large Areas of the Body: Applying cream over a large surface area can cause an excessive amount of the drug to enter your bloodstream [1.2.4, 1.6.3]. The FDA has reported deaths linked to applying numbing cream over entire legs before cosmetic procedures [1.5.3, 1.8.3].
• Near the Eyes: Accidental contact with the eyes can cause severe irritation and damage [1.2.2].

Understanding the Risks: From Skin Irritation to Systemic Toxicity

Misusing numbing cream can lead to a range of side effects.

Local Side Effects:

• Redness, itching, or a burning sensation at the application site [1.6.4].
• Temporary whitening of the skin [1.2.6].
• Allergic contact dermatitis, with benzocaine being a common allergen [1.3.6].

Systemic Side Effects (Local Anesthetic Systemic Toxicity - LAST): This is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the anesthetic reaches high levels in the bloodstream [1.4.1, 1.4.4]. It primarily affects the central nervous system (CNS) and cardiovascular system [1.4.4].

• Early Symptoms: Numbness around the mouth, a metallic taste, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, and confusion [1.4.1, 1.4.3].
• Severe Symptoms: Seizures, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias), low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, coma, and even cardiac arrest [1.4.1, 1.4.6].

Another rare but serious risk is methemoglobinemia, a blood disorder where red blood cells cannot effectively carry oxygen. This can cause the skin, lips, and nails to turn pale, gray, or blue and requires immediate medical attention [1.3.1].

Comparison of Common Topical Anesthetics

Different numbing creams have different properties. The choice depends on the procedure, location, and required duration of numbness.

Anesthetic Agent	Type	Onset of Action	Duration of Action	Common Uses & Notes
Lidocaine	Amide	Rapid	~90 minutes	Common in OTC products (up to 4-5%) and prescriptions. Stronger than benzocaine [1.7.4]. The FDA warns against OTC products with over 4% lidocaine [1.5.4].
Benzocaine	Ester	Rapid (peak at 2 mins)	Short (~5-15 mins)	Often used for oral/mucosal pain. Higher risk of allergic reactions and methemoglobinemia [1.3.2, 1.7.1].
Tetracaine	Ester	Slower	Long (up to 60 mins)	More potent and absorbed quickly through mucous membranes. Often combined with other agents to balance onset and duration [1.3.2, 1.7.1].
EMLA (Lidocaine/Prilocaine)	Amide Mix	Slower (60+ mins)	1-2 hours	Eutectic mixture that requires occlusion (covering) to be effective [1.7.5]. Prilocaine carries a risk of methemoglobinemia [1.3.2, 1.3.6].

A Step-by-Step Guide to Safe Application

To minimize risks, always follow the product instructions and these general guidelines [1.8.5]:

1. Consult a Professional: Before using any numbing cream, especially a prescription one, discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist [1.6.2].
2. Perform a Patch Test: Apply a small amount to a non-sensitive area to check for an allergic reaction before full use [1.8.3].
3. Wash and Dry the Area: Ensure the skin is clean, dry, and completely intact [1.8.4].
4. Apply the Correct Amount: Use only the smallest amount needed to cover the small, targeted area. Do not rub it in vigorously [1.8.1, 1.8.5].
5. Follow Timing Instructions: Apply the cream for the recommended duration—often 30 to 60 minutes before a procedure. Leaving it on for too long increases the risk of systemic absorption [1.6.2, 1.8.1].
6. Cover if Directed: Some creams (like EMLA) require an occlusive (waterproof) dressing to work effectively. Do not use plastic wrap or heating pads, as heat can increase absorption to dangerous levels [1.2.2, 1.6.1].
7. Wash Hands Thoroughly: After applying the cream, wash your hands to avoid accidentally transferring it to your eyes or mouth [1.2.2].
8. Remove Completely: Before the procedure, wipe all the cream off the skin as instructed [1.8.1].

Conclusion

While numbing creams are effective for localized pain, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution and are far from harmless. You absolutely cannot put numbing cream anywhere on your body. Safe usage is confined to small areas of intact skin, following strict guidelines on amount and duration. Ignoring these rules by applying it to broken skin, mucous membranes, or large areas risks severe, life-threatening complications like systemic toxicity. Always prioritize safety, read product labels carefully, and consult a healthcare professional.

For more authoritative information on drug safety, you can visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put numbing cream on broken, scraped, or cut skin?

No. You should never apply numbing cream to broken, scraped, or otherwise damaged skin. Doing so can cause the anesthetic to be absorbed too quickly into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of serious side effects [1.2.3, 1.6.2].

Is it safe to use numbing cream on my face?

It can be used on the face for procedures like microblading, but extreme caution is necessary. Avoid getting it in the eyes, mouth, or nose [1.2.2]. Always wash hands after application and follow product-specific instructions.

What happens if I leave numbing cream on for too long?

Leaving numbing cream on for extended periods allows more of the active ingredient to be absorbed into your bloodstream. This can lead to life-threatening side effects, including irregular heartbeat, seizures, and breathing difficulties [1.6.2].

Can I use numbing cream for a tattoo?

Yes, numbing cream is often used for tattoos. However, you should apply it only to a small, intact area of skin and follow all safety guidelines. The FDA has issued warnings about many creams marketed specifically for tattoos that contain unsafe levels of lidocaine [1.5.1, 1.8.3].

Is it okay to put numbing cream inside my mouth or nose?

No, you should not put standard numbing cream inside your mouth, nose, ears, or on other mucous membranes unless it is a specific formulation prescribed by a doctor for that purpose. These areas absorb the medication very quickly [1.2.1, 1.3.2].

What are the signs of a bad reaction to numbing cream?

Early signs of a serious reaction, known as LAST, include a metallic taste in your mouth, numbness of the lips, ringing in the ears, confusion, or agitation. Severe symptoms include seizures and changes in heart rate. If you experience these, seek immediate medical attention [1.4.1].

Can I buy strong numbing cream over the counter?

The FDA recommends that consumers do not use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief products containing more than 4% lidocaine [1.5.4]. Products marketed with higher concentrations are considered illegal and pose unacceptable risks [1.5.2].