We often are asked for recommendations on which topical anesthetic is the best. While we can’t say which one will be best suited for you specifically, we can highlight a few characteristics to help you decide which one might be the one you are looking for…..
If you are looking for the fastest-acting anesthetic then we recommend a liquid such as SJ3 (newly reformulated!), Vasocaine spray, and GiGi Anesthetic Numbing Spray. SJ3 and Vasocaine each have 5% lidocaine and are fast acting in as little as 90 seconds. SJ3 also contains 1% tetracaine and 12% benzocaine and can be reapplied during procedures. Vasocaine boasts epinephrine which helps reduce bruising and swelling. GiGi Anesthetic Numbing spray is a more economical option than the others but only contains 4% lidocaine.
More traditional topical anesthetics would include Zensa, LMX, and Lidocaine Plus. All are cream-based topicals and will require a bit more time to sit on the skin before procedures but may also last longer. Zensa has a neutral pH and therefore is nice to use in sensitive areas. It contains 5% lidocaine and will be most effective with occlusion protocol. It also can be reapplied after the skin has broken. LMX is a fan favorite as no occlusion is required. It is a bit more expensive than others but comes in 5% and 4% lidocaine as well as a handy five pack which is often used to give to clients ahead of the upcoming session. Lidocaine Plus is the economical option in this group, with 4% lidocaine and aloe vera cooling.
Another traditional avenue of topicals comes in a gel base, such as Topicaine or Greencaine. Topicaine comes in a variety of sizes and includes 5% and 4% lidocaine options. The 10g 5% tube is nice to provide to clients and none of the Topicaine products require occlusion, just a bit of time to sit on the skin. Greencaine is nicely priced within this category and comes with 4% lidocaine, aloe, and jojoba oil.
Specifically for procedures on the upper lip, often Hurricaine is a good option. It contains 20% Benzocaine and is intended for use inside the mouth only. A variety of flavors are available to suit your client. We also have our new CooLips soothing cooling packs which are nice to provide if you have a small freezer or refrigerator available. Sometimes the simple option is the best, and simply cooling the upper lip will provide enough numbness for many clients.
Hopefully this overview will help confirm the topical you are using or perhaps give you a few options to consider. If you have additional questions about topicals or any of the products Prestige sells, we’re ready to assist you! Just chat via the small chat box at the bottom of your screen or email Prestige Customer Service.
Tags: SJ3, Topical Anesthetic, topical numbing, betacaine, topicaine, zensa, numb