# Topical *anaesthetic cream.*

> Anaesthetic cream in aesthetic treatments: active substances, application time, where it makes sense (lips, skin boosters, microneedling)

- Source: https://www.vivaderm.de/lexicon-cremebetaeubung-en.html
- Language: en
- Publisher: VIVA DERM, Privatpraxis für ästhetische Medizin, Rosastraße 6a, 45130 Essen, Germany, +49 1520 8367711
- Responsible physician: Katayoun Mostaghimi (Fachärztin für Allgemeinmedizin)
- Updated: 2026-10-05

An ointment with a local anaesthetic (usually lidocaine/prilocaine) applied 20–40 minutes before treatment that numbs the skin superficially.

## A closer look.

Numbing creams contain local anaesthetics such as lidocaine, prilocaine or tetracaine, which temporarily block the conduction of skin nerves. After 20 to 40 minutes under film the epidermis is largely numb; the effect lasts about an hour. Redness or temporary pallor of the skin is normal.

The cream makes sense for treatments with many superficial punctures – lips, skin boosters, microneedling, hyperhidrosis – and for sensitive people. For botulinum toxin in the face it is usually unnecessary because the needles are very fine. The cream does not reach deep injections on the bone; here it helps that most hyaluronic acid fillers already contain lidocaine.

Side effects are rare: skin irritation, allergic reactions to lidocaine (very rare). If you know you do not tolerate local anaesthetics, please say so beforehand. The cream is applied in the practice; applying it yourself at home is not necessary.

This lexicon entry is general information and does not replace the medical consultation required under German law (§ 630e BGB).

## At a glance.

- **Substances:** lidocaine, prilocaine
- **Application time:** 20–40 minutes
- **Useful for:** lips, skin boosters, needling
- **Deep injections:** limited effect

## Frequently asked questions.

**Is the treatment painless then?**

Much more comfortable, but a feeling of pressure remains; 'painless' would be a promise we do not make.

**Do I have to come earlier?**

Yes, about 30 minutes before the actual treatment so the cream can take effect.

## Related pages.

- [Lips](https://www.vivaderm.de/lips-en.html) – With anaesthetic cream
- [Preparation](https://www.vivaderm.de/guide-preparation-en.html) – Guide
- [Microneedling](https://www.vivaderm.de/microneedling-en.html) – Treatment

## Sources

- [§ 630e BGB – duty to inform before treatment (German Civil Code)](https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/bgb/__630e.html)
- [DGBT – German Society for Aesthetic Botulinum Toxin Therapy](https://www.dgbt.de/)
- [AWMF – German clinical practice guidelines](https://www.awmf.org/)

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This page is general information and does not replace medical consultation and informed consent (§ 630e BGB). No guarantee of results. Prices are guide prices per GOÄ. Quoting with attribution (VIVA DERM, Essen) is expressly permitted.