Lidocaine Numbing Cream (4–5%)

Over-the-counter numbing cream at 4% lidocaine in the US (the FDA's ceiling for skin) or 5% in Canada, where Health Canada licenses it. Apply about 20 minutes ahead.

• Lidocaine 4–5%
• Apply ~20 min ahead

Why you’d want it: Popular with anyone who hates needles. Which is most people.

Picking tip: The legal ceiling depends on where you are: 4% in the US, where the FDA has warned about stronger over-the-counter products, and 5% in Canada, where the licensed creams carry an NPN number on the label. Buy the one that is legal where you live and skip anything advertising more.

Category

Comfort & Safety

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