Numbing Cream for Microblading and PMU UK: Does It Work and Which Strength to Use?

Microblading, lip blush, ombre brows and other permanent makeup treatments are becoming more popular across the UK, but the pain of the procedure puts many people off. The good news: numbing cream works extremely well for PMU treatments, often better than for body tattoos, because the face has a high density of nerve endings that respond quickly to topical anaesthetics. This guide explains exactly which NUMBX Beast formula to choose, how to apply it before your appointment, and what to expect.

Why Microblading and PMU Hurt

Microblading uses a hand tool with fine needles to deposit pigment into the upper layers of the skin. Lip blush and ombre brows use a machine, similar to a tattoo machine, to create softer results. Both techniques involve repeated needle passes across delicate facial skin. The eyebrow and lip areas are particularly sensitive because the skin is thin, there are many nerve endings close to the surface, and the bone underneath provides little cushioning.

Without numbing cream, most clients describe microblading as a scratching or stinging sensation ranging from uncomfortable to genuinely painful, especially by the third or fourth pass. With the right numbing cream applied correctly, most clients feel very little beyond mild pressure.

Does Numbing Cream Actually Work for Microblading?

Yes. Topical anaesthetic creams containing lidocaine are widely used in the PMU industry specifically because they work so well on facial skin. The thin skin and close proximity to nerve endings that make the face so painful also allow the active ingredient to absorb quickly and penetrate to the necessary depth.

The key is using the right strength and applying it with enough lead time. A low-strength cream applied for 20 minutes will take the edge off. A proper-strength cream applied under wrap for 60 minutes will make most clients barely feel the procedure.

Which NUMBX Beast Formula for Microblading and PMU?

The face is sensitive skin, and some formulas designed for maximum strength on body placements can cause redness or irritation when used on the face. Here is the recommended approach by treatment:

How to Apply Numbing Cream Before a Microblading Appointment

Applying numbing cream for PMU is slightly different from applying it for a body tattoo. Follow this process for best results:

1. 1.

   Cleanse the area

   Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Remove all makeup, moisturiser and oils from the treatment area. Any barrier on the skin reduces absorption.

2. 2.

   Apply a thick, even layer

   Apply a generous layer of cream to the area. For eyebrows, cover both brows fully including a small margin around each. For lips, cover the entire lip area and just beyond the lip line.

3. 3.

   Wrap with cling film

   Cover the cream with cling film and press gently to seal. The wrap creates a mild occlusive effect that drives the active ingredient deeper into the skin.

4. 4.

   Leave for 60 minutes minimum

   The cream needs at least 60 minutes to reach full depth. Set a timer. Do not rush this step.

5. 5.

   Remove just before your appointment

   Wipe off all cream thoroughly with a clean tissue before leaving home or immediately when you arrive. Do not leave cream on when the procedure begins.

6. 6.

   Let your artist know

   Always tell your PMU artist you have used numbing cream. Most artists work with numbed clients regularly and will adjust their technique if needed.

Important Things to Know Before Your PMU Appointment

How Long Does the Numbing Last During PMU?

Applied correctly with a wrap, NUMBX Beast Green 60% provides 2 to 4 hours of numbing on facial skin. Most microblading sessions run 90 minutes to 2 hours for the initial procedure, which falls comfortably within this window.

If your artist is doing a long session or a combined treatment such as brows and liner in the same appointment, apply the cream 75 to 90 minutes before the procedure starts rather than 60 minutes, to give yourself the maximum active window. Some artists also apply a secondary numbing product to open skin between passes. This is common practice and you do not need to do anything extra for it.

Frequently Asked Questions