Lidocaine is the most effective of the amide anesthetics. Lidocaine’s superior pain-reducing properties are evidenced by the fact that dermatologist use Lidocaine exclusively to numb the skin prior to performing a procedure. [2] X Research source In addition, because Lidocaine has a pH in the acidic range less than 7,[3] X Research source it does not alter the skin’s surface characteristics. In other words, Lidocaine does NOT cause swelling or exfoliation of the epidermal or dermal layers. When you use a Lidocaine-based numbing cream prior to getting a tattoo, you can rest assured that your tattoo’s design, shape, and color will not be altered by the use of the Lidocaine numbing cream. Benzocaine, an ester anesthetic, has been medically proven to provide no pain relieving properties when applied to skin. [4] X Research source Ester anesthetics reduce pain only when applied to “mucous membrane” areas of the body, such as the gums, inside the cheeks, and the anus. Benzocaine’s specific pain reducing benefit is evidenced by the fact that it is used by dentists and proctologists. So, unless you want to get a tattoo on the inside of your lip or on another mucous membrane, you have no need to purchase a numbing cream containing Benzocaine as its active ingredient.
