The how-to

Using numbing cream

Start here if you're new to numbing cream: what it is, how cream, gel and spray differ, the three strengths and the patch test. Each part links to the guide that goes deeper.

The basics

What is numbing cream?

Numbing cream is a topical cosmetic preparation, applied to clean, unbroken skin before a treatment to support comfort. Senseless makes it as a cream, a gel and a spray, each in three strengths: Clinical, Advanced and Professional. Many clinics and studios apply their own as standard, so check with yours before bringing it.

The essentials

  • Patch test about 24 hours before first use and stop if your skin reacts.
  • Numbing cream is a cosmetic preparation applied to clean skin before treatment to support comfort.
  • How long to leave it on and how long it lasts vary by product, area and application — follow the product's instructions.
  • Leaving it on longer than directed doesn't improve it and can irritate skin.
  • Many practitioners apply their own numbing as standard — check before bringing your own.
  • Senseless is a UK range of cosmetic numbing cream, gel and spray in three strengths, made for use before tattoos, piercings and aesthetic treatments. It is a brand of Matrix Health Group Ltd.

The routine, in one line each — Clean, dry skin → a generous, visible layer, never rubbed in → covered only if your practitioner advises → removed fully before treatment.

How to apply numbing cream, step by step

Before first use

First time with any product? Patch test 24 hours ahead — a small amount on the inner wrist or behind the ear. If your skin reacts, don't use it, wash the area, and seek medical advice if the reaction continues.

Formats

Cream, gel or spray?

Cream suits most areas and is the usual starting point. Gel stays where you place it, so it suits small, precise areas such as lips and brows. Spray gives even, hands-off coverage over larger areas of the body, for example before waxing or laser. How to choose a format

Three strengths

Clinical is for shorter or less intensive treatments, Advanced for longer or more sensitive sessions, and Professional, our practitioner tier, for the longest sessions. A higher tier isn't automatically the better choice, so match it to the appointment. How to choose a strength

Guides

Every guide

Each guide answers one question in full.

Common questions

What is numbing cream?

A topical cosmetic preparation, applied to clean, unbroken skin before a treatment to support comfort. Senseless comes as a cream, a gel and a spray, each in three strengths.

Should I choose cream, gel or spray?

Choose by the area. Cream suits most areas, gel suits small, precise areas such as lips and brows, and spray suits larger areas of the body. The Senseless Selector helps you choose.

Do I need to patch test?

Yes, before first use of any product. Patch test 24 hours ahead with a small amount on the inner wrist or behind the ear. If your skin reacts, don't use it, wash the area, and seek medical advice if the reaction continues.

Do I need to bring my own?

Often not — many clinics apply their own as standard. Check before your appointment.

Ready when you are