What is the best TOPICAL ANAESTHETICS (numbing creams) FOR COSMETIC TATTOO?

Anaesthetics

Mar 17

⏱ 2 Min Read

First, we need to understand Regulations of topical anaesthetics in Australia

Topical anaesthetics commonly known as numbing creams may be applied during skin penetration procedures such as cosmetic tattoo to reduce pain sensation. The main active ingredients in topical anaesthetics include any number of the following:

lignocaine
prilocaine
tetracaine
benzocaine
epinephrine

The use of topical anesthetics in Australia is regulated nationally by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and in South Australia under the Controlled Substance Act 1984 (the Act). Topical anaesthetics in Australia fall into the category of Scheduled Medicines and therefore specific restrictions on their sale apply.

Tattoo artists are not allowed to sell or stock, store or supply any scheduled medicine to clients.

The illegal sale, supply or administration of a medicine to members of the public is an offence under the Controlled Substance Act 1984 which carries a maximum penalty of $10,000 or imprisonment for 2 years.

Know the potential hazards with topical anaesthetics

Topical anaesthetics work by blocking the pain sensation in the skin. They are usually in a cream or gel. If they are applied in large amounts or to large surface areas of the body, or areas where the skin is already irritated or damaged, high concentrations of the anaesthetic can pass into the bloodstream and cause serious side effects or toxicity. Some people have allergies to these anaesthetics and even small amounts can be toxic. Life-threatening adverse effects can occur such as:

irregular heartbeat
seizures
breathing difficulties
coma
death

understand the Classifications of Different types of anaesthetics in Australia

Schedule 2

Schedule 2 medicines are available for over-the-counter purchase in a pharmacy.

Schedule 3

Schedule 3 medicines are available from a pharmacist only but but do not require a prescription from a doctor.

Schedule 4

Schedule 4 medicines are available from a pharmacist only by prescription from a doctor.

is your numbing Approved for use in Australia?

In addition to the Poisons Standard, topical anaesthetics are controlled under the Therapeutic Goods Act (1989). Because topical anaesthetics are considered a ‘high-risk’ product they are highly regulated and must be produced by a TGA-approved manufacturer. This can be identified by the ‘AUST R’ number. If your topical anaesthetic does not have an AUST R number or was not made by a compounding pharmacist it is illegal to use within Australia. This really limits your options, with a few weaker topical anaesthetics (less than 5%) being TGA-approved. EMLA and Numit are some of the few.

You probably know that anything less than 5% anaesthetic doesn’t work well enough for cosmetic tattooing and anything over 10% anaesthetic needs a doctor’s prescription. Between 5 and 10% is only available via a Compounding Pharmacy, meaning they make the ‘medicine’ (anaesthetic) for the ‘patient’ (your client). Therefore it is important you follow the rules in your state to obtain anaesthetic properly to avoid hefty penalties.

Specific caution on EMLA:

A popular choice of over-the-counter topical anaesthetic is EMLA. This cream contains 2.5% lignocaine and 2.5% prilocaine. What you also need to be aware of is EMLA has a relatively high pH (approximately 9), which means it is more alkaline than other topical anaesthetics and may burn particularly sensitive body tissue.

Conducting eyeliner with EMLA is not recommended because of the risk of contact with the eye, which may result in injury resulting in the need for hospitalisation and extensive treatment.

COMPOUNDING anaesthetics for cosmetic tattoo

OHMYBROW has been working with compounding pharmacies to understand the effectiveness of numbing gel. for cosmetic procedures. We’ve learned a lot, tested a lot, and we’re happy to continue to share the results with you.

To learn more on the safe application of numbing read our article.

Final Words of Caution when selecting an anaesthetic for PMU

Check the anaesthetics you are using, including the ingredients and concentrations. Health authorities are now conducting inspections.
Ensure the anaesthetics you use are obtained legally through a pharmacy or doctor (depending on your state's requirements). There are online shops still selling topical anaesthetics that should not. Buying anaesthetics online is not an option in Australia.
Even though the medical practitioner supplies the anaesthetic directly to your client, you still need written consent from your client asking permission to administer the product for them. Most salon insurance companies will require you to do this.
All anaesthetics are not made equal. Even with the same ingredients, performance varies according to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the compounding pharmacist Source around until you are happy (and your clients) are happy with the effects. Numbing should not burn or sting.
If you are unsure if you are using the correct anaesthetic consult with a suitably qualified medical practitioner or your qualified cosmetic tattoo trainer, who should be fully familiar with the current legal requirements.
Read and follow any instructions provided with the anaesthetic.
Carefully observe for any potential side effects or contraindications following the application of the topical anaesthetic. If any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use immediately.
Keep up to date with changes in regulations and industry information. What was acceptable when you were trained may be different now or change in the future.

Each state and territory also have their own acts which should also be considered.

Queensland
Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996

New South Wales
Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Regulation 2008

Victoria
Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981

Tasmania
Poisons Act 1971

Australian Capital Territory
Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 2008

South Australia
Controlled Substances (Poisons) Regulations 1996

Western Australia
Poisons Act 1964

Northern Territory
Poisons & Dangerous Drugs Act