Emla 5% Numbing Cream

What Is EMLA Numbing Cream and How Does It Help?

Nobody enjoys the sharp sting of a needle. Whether it's a blood test, vaccination, or a minor skin procedure, that moment of anticipation can feel worse than the procedure itself. EMLA numbing cream is a topical local anaesthetic that takes the edge off — quite literally. It contains two active ingredients, lidocaine 2.5% and prilocaine 2.5%, which work together to temporarily numb the surface of the skin before a procedure begins. Available over the counter from Cured Pharmacy for just £4.90, it's a straightforward, clinically established option for anyone who wants to make needle-based procedures more comfortable. If you're looking for other topical treatments, you might also find our creams and ointments collection useful.

EMLA has been used in clinical settings for decades and is well recognised by the NHS as a safe and effective option for reducing procedural pain. It's suitable for adults and children alike, though age-specific guidance applies — more on that below.

How Does EMLA 5% Cream Work on the Skin?

The cream works by penetrating the outer layers of intact skin and temporarily blocking the sodium channels in nerve endings. When those channels are blocked, the nerves can't send pain signals to the brain — so you feel little to nothing during the procedure. Here's a simple breakdown of the mechanism:

• Lidocaine and prilocaine are both amide-type local anaesthetics that stabilise nerve cell membranes.
• Applied under an occlusive dressing, the cream penetrates the epidermis and upper dermis over 60 minutes.
• Numbing typically reaches a depth of 3–5 mm after one hour, and up to 5 mm after two hours.
• The anaesthetic effect begins to wear off gradually once the cream is removed.

It's worth noting that EMLA only works on intact skin. It should never be applied to open wounds, broken skin, or mucous membranes.

Who Is EMLA Cream Suitable For?

EMLA cream is suitable for a wide range of people, from young children having vaccinations to adults undergoing minor dermatological procedures. That said, it isn't right for everyone. Here's a quick guide to who it suits:

• Adults and children aged 37 weeks gestational age or older who need skin numbing before needle procedures.
• People with needle anxiety or a low pain threshold who want to reduce discomfort during blood tests or cannula insertion.
• Patients undergoing minor skin procedures such as laser treatment or superficial skin surgery.
• Individuals who have been advised by a healthcare professional to use a topical anaesthetic before a procedure.

It is not suitable for people with known hypersensitivity to lidocaine, prilocaine, or any other amide-type local anaesthetic. Those with congenital or idiopathic methaemoglobinaemia should also avoid it. Always check with your pharmacist if you're unsure.

How Does EMLA Cream Compare to Other Numbing Options?

Is EMLA Cream Safe to Store at Home?

EMLA numbing cream should be stored below 25°C and must not be frozen. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use, and always store it out of the reach and sight of children. The cream has a shelf life printed on the packaging — do not use it after the expiry date. If you're managing a range of healthcare products at home, our first aid collection has everything you might need alongside your EMLA cream.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is EMLA Cream and What Is It Used For?

EMLA 5% cream is a topical local anaesthetic used to numb intact skin before minor painful procedures. It is licensed for use prior to needle insertion (such as venepuncture or cannulation), superficial surgical procedures on the skin, and localised genital procedures in adults when used under medical supervision. The cream is an oil-in-water emulsion containing lidocaine 2.5% and prilocaine 2.5% as its active ingredients. It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription but should be used in line with the patient information leaflet.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using EMLA Cream?

Before applying EMLA cream, it's important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not use this product if any of the following apply:

• You are allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, or any other amide-type local anaesthetic.
• You have congenital or idiopathic methaemoglobinaemia.
• You are applying it to broken, inflamed, or infected skin.
• You are applying it near the eyes or to mucous membranes.
• The patient is a premature infant born before 37 weeks gestational age.
• You are using it on infants under 12 months who are also receiving methaemoglobin-inducing medicines.

The following medicines may interact with EMLA cream and you should inform your pharmacist or doctor if you are taking any of them:

• Antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g. mexiletine, amiodarone) — risk of additive cardiac effects.
• Other local anaesthetics — risk of increased systemic toxicity.
• Medicines that can cause methaemoglobinaemia, such as sulphonamides, dapsone, or nitrates.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g. certain antifungals or antibiotics) — may increase plasma levels of lidocaine.

How Should You Apply EMLA Cream Correctly?

Using EMLA cream correctly is key to getting the numbing effect you need. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Identify the area of intact skin where the procedure will take place.
2. Apply a thick layer of cream — approximately 1.5–2 g per 10 cm² — directly onto the skin. Do not rub it in.
3. Cover the cream with the occlusive dressing supplied in the pack, sealing the edges firmly.
4. Leave in place for at least 60 minutes before a needle procedure, or up to 5 hours for deeper procedures.
5. Remove the dressing and wipe away the cream just before the procedure begins.
6. Dispose of the dressing safely and wash your hands after handling the cream.

If you're managing pain from other causes alongside your procedure, our pain relief collection includes a range of options that may help with recovery afterwards.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of EMLA Cream?

Like all medicines, EMLA cream can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most reactions are mild and localised to the area of application.

Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):

• Temporary paleness (blanching) of the skin at the application site.
• Redness (erythema) after the cream is removed.
• Mild swelling or oedema at the treated area.
• A burning or itching sensation during or shortly after application.

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Methaemoglobinaemia — a condition where haemoglobin is altered and carries less oxygen. More likely with excessive doses or in young infants.
• Allergic contact dermatitis or skin sensitisation.
• In rare cases, systemic effects such as dizziness or light-headedness if large amounts are absorbed.

How Should You Store EMLA Cream?

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
• Do not freeze — freezing can alter the cream's consistency and effectiveness.
• Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.
• Store out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton.
• Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused cream to your pharmacist.

For children who need regular procedures such as blood tests, it may be worth keeping EMLA cream as part of your home medical kit. You'll find other useful products for families in our baby and toddler collection.