BLT numbing cream is a popular, topical anesthetic containing benzocaine, lidocaine, and tetracaine. The non-prescription variety of BLT numbing cream contains maximum allowable strengths of each topical anesthetic, which are mixed together to achieve the desired numbing effect. However, since the numbing agents are indicated for pain, there are no specific guidelines as to how they should be used for specific procedures.
As an esthetic physician and cosmetologist, your patient safety is of prime importance. This article gathers research-backed relevant information, tips, and safety guidelines for the appropriate use of BLT numbing creams on clients. Read on to find out more!
Formulation Considerations
Some BLT numbing cream side effects relate to the texture of the formulation. The 2016 incident of corneal abrasions resulting from using a gritty textured BLT numbing cream proves how product formulation can impact safety.
Another comparative study on BLT cream with and without gritty texture revealed how a smoother formulation is associated with minor irritation. On the other hand, the use of gritty-textured BLT numbing cream resulted in erythema in the application area.
Can you Use Numbing Cream while Pregnant?
Each component of the BLT numbing cream has different safety profiles during pregnancy. Topical lidocaine is generally considered safe to use in a pregnant and lactating woman as it falls under pregnancy category B. However, topical benzocaine falls under pregnancy category C and would not be recommended. It is also known to carry a risk of causing methemoglobinemia in infants. Finally, topical tetracaine falls under pregnancy category B. Unless the benefit of using BLT numbing cream during pregnancy outweighs the risk, it should be avoided.
Benzocaine Topical: Pregnancy Category C
Lidocaine Topical: Pregnancy Category B
Tetracaine Topical: Pregnancy Category B
BLT Cream Application Tips for Estheticians and
Dermatologists
When applying numbing cream to your clients, ensure to follow a safe application procedure for maximum penetration and avoid adverse effects.
- Thoroughly cleanse your patient’s face and pat dry it with a clean towel
- For hygiene purposes, always wear gloves while applying the cream. It will also prevent numbing of your hands
- Massage with small amounts on the areas to be treated
- After massaging, layer the treatment area with a thin film like a face mask to increase the effectiveness
- Leave the cream on the area to be treated for up to 20 minutes for maximum anesthetic effect
- Wipe the cream entirely and follow with a disinfectant. Ensure no residues of cream are left behind as they make their way into your client’s skin during the
cosmetic procedure (e.g., during micro-needling)
Centura Pharmaceuticals BLT Numbing Cream
FDA registered, non-prescription BLT numbing cream is available at Centura Pharmaceuticals, which consists of benzocaine, lidocaine, and tetracaine at maximum allowable strengths. The BLT numbing creams come in a thick ointment-like smooth texture that penetrates well into your client’s skin for the maximum numbing effect. https://centurabltcream.com/
Health Disclaimer
This article provides general information about skin numbing creams, as a reference source designed as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of appropriate professionals. The absence of a warning for a given drug or combination thereof in no way should be construed to indicate safety, effectiveness, or appropriateness for any given patient. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided is accurate, up-to date and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect.
