Numbing Creams for Genital Piercings: Yes or No?

~ Craige Faries

Ms. Jackson:

Why can’t lidocaine or similar topical anesthetic be used to reduce the pain of penis piercings?

Thank you!

Many people interested in genital piercings and other sensitive piercings wonder about the possibility of using a numbing cream or a topical anesthetic. This is understandable: genital piercings tend to be painful and people wish to avoid discomfort.

It is understandable that you are scared of the pain. While some people think that piercings are all about the pain, this is not necessarily true. There is nothing wrong about wanting to lower or avoid the pain during piercing procedure.

However, using numbing creams for genital piercings is not always the best way to go. While you may use them in some situations, it is important to be careful. Many times, it is best for you to avoid topical anesthetics and other types of numbing agents for genital piercings.

Numbing Creams for Genital Piercings

Here are some reasons why numbing creams, topical anesthetics and other similar medications should not be used for genital piercings:

• Numbing creams prevent the body’s natural reaction.

  While pain is unpleasant and can cause discomfort, it is body’s natural defense mechanism. It tells us when something is wrong. When it comes to piercings, the pain can help the piercer determine the right placement. This is the only way to tell if the piercing is positioned properly or it it’s going to hurt important nerves. This is particularly important in the case of genital piercings. For these reasons, it is best for clients not to use numbing creams for genital piercings.

• Numbing creams can make it more difficult to get the right placement.

  Even if no nerves are touched or damaged, numbing creams make it more difficult for a piercer to determine the right placement. Some creams and numbing agents make the tissue sit differently or change its feeling and appearance. All these things can change how the piercing looks once the effect of the numbing cream is gone.

• There is a possibility of irritation.

  Some topical creams can irritate the skin, which makes the piercing difficult to perform. In some cases, the irritation can be so huge that it is impossible to do the piercing. Sometimes, the irritation lasts long after you get the piercing, which makes healing more difficult.

• There is a risk of allergic reaction. There is always a risk of allergic reaction when you use topical anesthetics. Even if you are not generally allergic to anesthetics, you never know what might happen during the piercing. Keep in mind that piercing itself brings a certain amount of stress, which can trigger a different reaction from your body. It is best to avoid any risk of allergies so you should avoid topical numbing creams and anesthetics.

• Only a doctor can administer many of these anesthetics.
  

  Only medical professionals are allowed to give you certain anesthetics and creams. Even if it’s just a topical anesthetic and not a shot, it is best if they are administrated by a doctor. Legal regulations vary from place to place but it is always best to keep in mind that certain medicaments should always be approved by a doctor and many of them can only be administrated by a doctor. Others can be used by piercers but there are strict regulations about it.

• The healing becomes more difficult. Numbing creams and topical anesthetics can actually make the healing time longer and more difficult. The body doesn’t always recognize there is a piercing, which delays the healing process. Also, the initial healing might become compromised with the use of a topical anesthetic.

Should You Ever Use Numbing Creams?

Does all of this mean that you should never use numbing creams and topical anesthetics for genital piercings? Not really. There are some situations in which you might use a topical cream or another numbing agent. However, you should never use these medicaments lightly.

If you really want to use a numbing cream, talk to your piercer and your doctor. Ask them to help you decide if a numbing cream is for you. It is crucial to talk to both the piercer and your doctor because this is the only way to stay safe.

Your doctor will tell you if it’s ok for you to use a numbing cream or a different type of a topical anesthetic. The doctor will also be able to give you an official doctor’s approval you can show to your piercer, if needed.

On the other hand, your piercer will be able to walk you through the procedure and explain how things will go. If you insist on using a numbing cream, make sure to tell your piercer beforehand so they can prepare.

Whatever you do, do not apply the numbing cream by yourself or without telling your piercer. This is a risky move and you should avoid it. It will only put you in more danger. If you really want to use a numbing cream, topical anesthetic or another type of a numbing agent, make sure to always talk to your piercer (and your doctor) so you can get the best care. This is the only way to go. Remember, some piercers are open about using numbing agents but the client has to tell them about it.

Explore More on Genital Jewelry Options:

• For Men: After weighing the pros and cons of numbing creams, make sure you’re also informed about the right jewelry choices. Discover our extensive range of male body jewelry tailored for comfort, safety, and aesthetics.
• For Women: As you consider the best practices for genital piercings, also delve into our curated selection of female body jewelry. Each piece is designed to complement your individual style while prioritizing safety and comfort.