An honest guide
Does it hurt?
Most aesthetic treatments cause brief, manageable discomfort rather than real pain — and it varies by treatment, area and person. Here's an honest guide, treatment by treatment.
Before you book
Honest comfort, treatment by treatment
How much a treatment hurts is personal — it varies with the treatment itself, the area being worked on, and your own sensitivity. Numbing is preparation for comfort, not part of the treatment, and most practitioners apply their own as standard, so it's always worth a quick word with yours first. Compare treatments below, then go deeper on the one you're booked in for.
By treatment
Find your treatment
- MicroneedlingA light scratching or prickling — what changes it, by depth and area.
- Laser hair removalA quick elastic-band snap — what changes it, by area and session.
- Lip fillerA brief sharp scratch and some pressure — eased by the numbing most practitioners use.
- BotoxA quick pinch or sting — many people manage without any numbing.
- MicrobladingLight scratching and some pressure — usually mild, with numbing throughout.
- Lip blushUncomfortable rather than painful — a scratching, tickling sensation.
- WaxingA brief, sharp sting as the strip is removed — it fades quickly.
- ElectrolysisA brief heat or stinging at each hair, more noticeable on sensitive areas.
The Senseless Selector
Not sure which to choose?
Answer three quick questions — treatment, skin and session length — and we'll point you to the format and strength we'd reach for.
Key facts
- What numbing does
- Topical numbing is a cosmetic preparation applied before treatment to support comfort — not an anaesthetic.
- What comfort depends on
- The treatment, the area, your skin, and how the product is applied.
- Formats
- Cream, gel and spray — matched to the area and appointment.
- Before you use it
- Patch test about 24 hours before first use and follow your practitioner's guidance.
UK cosmetic product, by Matrix Health Group Ltd. Not a medicine.
Common questions
Does numbing cream stop all pain?
No — numbing cream is a cosmetic preparation, not an anaesthetic. It supports comfort during many aesthetic treatments, but you may feel pressure or movement.
Which treatments does numbing help with?
It's used before procedures such as microneedling, laser and semi-permanent makeup. Match the format and strength to the area and appointment — the Senseless Selector helps you choose.
Will I feel anything during my treatment?
Numbing is a cosmetic preparation, not an anaesthetic — your practitioner can advise what to expect for your specific treatment.
How can I make a treatment more comfortable?
Apply to clean skin, patch test about 24 hours beforehand, and follow the product instructions and your practitioner's advice. Choosing the right strength for the appointment helps too.
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