Piercing Numbing Cream: A Bad Idea?

What is a numbing cream?

Numbing creams are often used in the medical field to temporarily reduce the sensitivity of the skin. They block nerve signals on the surface, creating a numbing effect. On paper, this seems perfect for avoiding the feeling of the needle, but the problem is that their action remains on the surface… whereas a piercing goes much deeper.

Why Numbing Cream Isn't a Magic Solution

1. Action limited to the surface:
• The numbing cream only works on the superficial layers of the skin. During a piercing, the needle goes through several layers to place the jewel deep inside. Result: the pain will always be there, because the numbing effect does not reach the heart of the action.
2. The pain comes back…and sometimes worse:
• Even if the cream temporarily masks the pain, it returns as soon as its effect wears off. And that's not all: the sensation can sometimes be even more unpleasant due to the tension created on the tissues during the piercing.
3. An obstacle for the piercer:
• And here we get to the heart of the matter. The numbing cream stiffens the skin, making it less flexible. For the piercer, this makes the task considerably more difficult, because stiff skin is more difficult to pierce cleanly. It can even cause additional pain for you, because the needle may "pull" more on the tissue.
4. A false sense of comfort:
• Yes, it feels like you're in control, but it's just an illusion. In reality, the cream only delays the discomfort without changing the intensity of the experience.
5. Risks of irritation:
• Some creams contain ingredients that can irritate the skin, especially if used incorrectly. This irritation can make the area more sensitive and hinder healing later on.

Piercings aren't just about flashiness

Let's not lie to ourselves: a piercing stings a little (in every sense of the word). But it's precisely this little fleeting pain that gives meaning to the experience. It marks a moment, an assumed decision. In other words, it's not just putting on a piece of jewelry: it's a personal journey.

And let's be honest: using a numbing cream to "avoid" the pain is a bit like wanting the cherry on top. It's okay to be afraid - it's normal. But getting pierced also means accepting this step so you can wear your jewelry proudly afterwards.

When can you use anesthetic cream?

Well, there are exceptions to everything. Who can benefit from numbing cream?

• For children aged 8 to 12 years old:
• In younger children, where apprehension is very strong, an anesthetic cream can be considered to make the experience a little gentler. But even then, it is important to explain to the child what he will feel and to prepare him well for this moment.

Please note: for any other type of piercing (nose, cartilage, navel, etc.), it is best to avoid it. The disadvantages far outweigh the benefits.