Should You Use Numbing Cream for Waxing?

Waxing sensitive skin can be uncomfortable, but a client’s pain tolerance shouldn’t dictate their chosen hair removal method. Numbing cream offers serious relief for waxing sessions, so your clients can schedule their next Brazilian, bikini, or facial wax with confidence. Join us for a guide to this must-have product for superior comfort. 

What, exactly, is numbing cream for waxing?

Numbing cream is a topical anesthetic that buffers the stinging sensation caused by hard and soft wax, taking the edge off an otherwise uncomfortable treatment. Let’s explore the basics. 

Main ingredients

Depending on the type of numbing cream or lotion your client chooses for waxing, it may contain one or more of the following ingredients: 

• Lidocaine: The most common topical anesthetic that blocks pain signals in the skin. 

• Benzocaine: Often found in low-strength or over-the-counter creams. 

• Prilocaine: May be combined with lidocaine for an enhanced numbing effect. 

• Tetracaine: Strong and long-lasting. Often used in professional-strength creams. 

Some people even make their own topical numbing solution at home by diluting clove oil extract in a carrier oil. However, we suggest sticking with standardized, proven products, especially when it concerns your clients’ health and safety. 

How it works

Numbing cream works by penetrating the skin and disrupting sodium channels in nearby nerve endings. As a result, pain signals can’t reach the brain. Even though the body is enduring the same process as an unmedicated wax, the brain doesn’t get the message. 

Benefits of numbing cream for waxing

Numbing cream offers several advantages for waxing appointments, including:

• Reduced discomfort

• Less anxiety

• Improved treatment tolerance

• More relaxed muscles during hair removal

• Better overall waxing experience

Related: What Is Esthetician Wax? Estheticians’ Wax Ingredients

What are the best numbing creams for waxing?

Ready to discover the next must-have hair removal companion? Here are some of our favorite numbing creams for waxing:

No Scream Cream

No Scream Cream was created by an esthetician who wanted serious relief for her clients. This solution contains 20% benzocaine and can reduce discomfort by 50% to 80%. Your client should apply a thick layer to their chosen treatment area and resist the urge to rub it in. It will dry in 30 to 45 minutes, at which point they can wipe off the white residue and begin their waxing session. 

Zensa Numbing Cream

This 5% lidocaine solution is often used for tattoo appointments, laser sessions, and other skin care procedures. Unlike most other numbing creams, this one is made for people with higher pain sensitivities and reduces sensation for two to three hours. 

Emla Cream

Emla Cream is a medical-grade product containing 2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine. Many find that the dual action of this anesthetic combo is more effective for real pain relief. Although it’s more expensive and requires a longer application time (often one to two hours), it’s definitely worth it for folks with a low pain tolerance.

Related: Aftercare Waxing Products You Need in Your Studio

Considerations when using numbing cream for waxing

While numbing cream can offer many benefits for waxing clients, its efficacy is largely dependent on proper application. Here are a few things to consider: 

Application

Topical anesthetics aren’t applied like a basic moisturizer. They’re designed to sit on the skin's surface and absorb slowly, gradually disarming nerve endings. Some products also require an occlusive layer, such as plastic wrap, during the absorption process. 

Encourage your clients to read the instructions on their chosen numbing cream carefully, so they know how and when to apply it. On the day of their wax, they should take a shower or bath before applying the cream, as oils, moisturizers, and sweat can all interfere with absorption. 

Technique and removal

If you’re unsure whether or not a client has applied numbing cream, be sure to ask! It’s essential to remove any product residue from the skin so that wax can properly adhere to hair, reducing the risk of painful side effects. In fact, it’s a good idea to add professional cleansing to your standard waxing routine, regardless of whether your client uses numbing cream. 

Safety considerations

Since numbing cream buffers all sensations on the skin, your clients may not realize that the wax temperature is too high, leading to a dangerous burn. Consider lowering the heat on your wax warmer and triple-checking that thermometer before using wax on numbed skin. 

Always patch test new topical products, especially for clients with sensitive skin or known allergies. And remember that applying too much numbing cream can cause complications like skin irritation, dizziness, and nausea, thanks to systemic absorption. 

Finally, be sure to follow up with a soothing post-wax gel or cream from Bare Beauty to minimize discomfort as the numbing action wears off.

Related: How To Choose the Best Professional Wax Warmer

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