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What is Numb520 cream used for? A Comprehensive Guide

3 min read

Numb520 cream is a topical anesthetic that contains 5% lidocaine, the maximum strength available over-the-counter. It is officially indicated for the temporary relief of local and anorectal discomfort, though it is widely used off-label for cosmetic procedures like tattoos, piercings, and waxing. The cream works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the skin, providing a numbing effect that helps manage minor pain, itching, and burning sensations.

Quick Summary

A potent topical anesthetic with 5% lidocaine, this numbing cream temporarily relieves minor pain, burning, and itching from skin irritations, minor cuts, sunburns, and hemorrhoids. Enhanced with liposomal technology, its fast-acting formula is also used off-label for procedures like tattoos, waxing, and microneedling. Proper application and precautions are essential.

Key Points

  • Active Ingredient: Numb520 is a topical anesthetic with 5% lidocaine for temporary skin numbing.

  • Primary Uses: It is officially indicated for temporary relief of anorectal discomfort from hemorrhoids and minor skin irritations, scrapes, and burns.

  • Off-Label Uses: Widely used for pain reduction during cosmetic procedures like tattoos, microneedling, waxing, and laser hair removal.

  • Enhanced Penetration: Formulated with liposomal technology for faster, deeper absorption into the skin.

  • Application: Apply a thick layer to clean, dry skin and cover with an occlusive dressing for about one hour for peak effect.

  • Timing: The numbing effect can begin in minutes, peak around 20-25 minutes, and last for approximately one hour.

  • Safety Precautions: Avoid applying to large areas, broken skin, or sensitive membranes. A patch test is recommended.

  • Professional Guidance: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with certain health conditions should consult a doctor before use.

In This Article

What is Numb520 cream?

Numb520 is a maximum-strength topical anesthetic cream containing 5% lidocaine, designed to provide a numbing effect on the skin. This desensitization helps alleviate pain, burning, and itching from minor skin conditions. The cream's liposomal technology aids in quick and deep lidocaine delivery, offering fast and lasting effects. Apply to clean, dry skin and cover with an occlusive dressing for optimal absorption.

Primary uses for Numb520 cream

Numb520 cream is primarily used for temporary relief of various skin discomforts, as officially indicated and considered safe when used as directed.

Anorectal discomfort

Numb520 is FDA-approved for external use on the anorectal area to treat discomfort from conditions like hemorrhoids, easing itching, burning, pain, and soreness. Follow application instructions carefully for this use.

Minor skin irritations

The cream can relieve pain from minor cuts, scrapes, and insect bites by providing a localized numbing effect that soothes irritated skin.

Minor burns and sunburns

Lidocaine's numbing properties in Numb520 help relieve pain and burning from minor burns and sunburns, while ingredients like aloe vera soothe the skin.

Off-label and cosmetic uses

Numb520 is often used for cosmetic procedures to reduce discomfort, though these are considered off-label uses and lack FDA approval for these specific applications.

Tattoos

Many individuals use Numb520 before getting tattoos, especially in sensitive areas, to minimize pain. A common method is applying a thick layer covered with plastic wrap about an hour before the session.

Waxing and laser hair removal

Applying Numb520 before waxing or laser hair removal can numb the skin, making the procedure more comfortable. For laser hair removal, applying the cream 30-40 minutes prior with an occlusive dressing is recommended.

Microneedling and injections

Numb520 is also used to prepare skin for microneedling and minor injections, like dermal fillers, by reducing needle pain with a pre-treatment application.

Comparison of numbing creams

Feature Numb520 Cream (Ebanel) Numb Master Cream (Clinical Resolution) Dr. Numb Cream
Active Ingredient 5% Lidocaine 5% Lidocaine 5% Lidocaine
Penetration Enhanced with liposomal technology Formulated with liposomal technology Non-specified formulation enhancement
Onset of Action 3-5 minutes 15-20 minutes As little as 15 minutes
Duration of Effect Up to 1 hour after peak Up to 1 hour after peak 2-4 hours
Additional Ingredients Vitamin E and Allantoin Aloe Vera and Vitamin E Vitamin E
Primary Indication Anorectal discomfort, minor skin irritations Anorectal discomfort, pain relief Tattoo numbing, beauty procedures, pain relief

Important considerations and safety

Even as an over-the-counter product, Numb520 requires careful use due to its potency. Improper application, such as on large areas or for extended times, increases the risk of lidocaine systemic absorption and serious side effects.

Always perform a patch test to check for allergic reactions before widespread use. Severe reactions include hives, swelling, and breathing difficulties. Minor side effects might include irritation, itching, or redness at the site. Discontinue use and seek medical help if concerning symptoms arise.

Conclusion

Numb520 cream, a maximum-strength 5% lidocaine topical anesthetic, offers fast numbing for various applications. While officially indicated for minor skin irritations and anorectal discomfort, it is also popular for cosmetic uses like tattoos and waxing. Its liposomal technology aids deep, quick penetration. However, users must follow application instructions, safety measures, and distinguish between approved and off-label uses for a safe experience.

How to use Numb520 cream

  1. Cleanse the area: Wash and dry the skin thoroughly.
  2. Apply a thick layer: Apply a generous, thick layer of cream without rubbing in completely.
  3. Cover with occlusive dressing: Cover the area with plastic wrap to enhance penetration.
  4. Wait for numbing effect: Numbing starts in 3-5 minutes, peaks around 20-25 minutes, and lasts about one hour from the peak.
  5. Remove and cleanse: Before the procedure or when numb, remove the wrap and wipe off excess cream.
  6. Reapplication (if necessary): For longer procedures, reapplication may be needed, but proceed cautiously, especially on broken skin, and consult instructions or a professional.

Who should consult a healthcare provider?

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
  • Children under 12.
  • Those with a history of lidocaine or local anesthetic allergies.
  • Anyone using the cream on large areas or for extended periods.
  • Individuals using the cream for cosmetic procedures should inform their practitioner.

Always check official packaging and label information for detailed product guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

The active ingredient in Numb520 cream is 5% lidocaine, a topical local anesthetic that numbs the skin and temporarily blocks nerve signals to provide pain relief.

The numbing effect typically begins within 3-5 minutes of application, reaches its peak in about 20-25 minutes, and can last for approximately one hour from its peak.

While not its official FDA-approved purpose, many people use Numb520 for tattoos. It is considered an off-label use for cosmetic procedures. Applying a thick layer covered with plastic wrap about an hour before a tattoo session can help numb the area.

Numb520 is hypoallergenic and contains ingredients like aloe vera to soothe the skin, making it suitable for most skin types. However, a patch test is recommended to rule out any allergic reactions to the ingredients.

Liposomal technology involves encapsulating the lidocaine in tiny lipid vesicles. This enhances the delivery of the anesthetic into the deeper layers of the skin, resulting in faster and deeper numbing compared to traditional creams.

For best results, apply a thick layer of the cream to clean, dry skin. Do not rub it in completely. Cover the area with a waterproof dressing or plastic wrap for about 60 minutes to maximize absorption.

Using excessive amounts, applying to large areas, or using the cream for too long can increase the risk of systemic absorption of lidocaine, which can lead to serious side effects like irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or seizures.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.