Emla Cream works by numbing the surface of the skin for a short time. This helps to stop pain on the skin, but you may still have the feelings of pressure and touch.

The active ingredients work by altering the way signals are conducted in neurons. Usually, the nerves on your skin will send signals to your brain when they’re touched. This is how we experience pain. When Emla Cream is applied, the process that allows these signals to be sent becomes blocked — reducing or stopping the pain from being felt.

Make sure you plan ahead as Emla cream takes 30–60 minutes to achieve its numbing effect. Exact timings may vary depending on your age and the type of procedure.

Apply the cream in a thick layer, avoiding rubbing in. Cover with an airtight, watertight dressing. When it’s time for your procedure, you or your practitioner can remove the dressing and wipe off the cream.

Most adults can use Emla Cream, but inform your doctor or pharmacist before using Emla Cream if:

• You have had an allergic reaction to Emla Cream or any of the ingredients in Emla Cream in the past
• You have cuts, rashes, eczema, bleeding or scabs on the area you need to use the cream
• You or your child have the rare inherited conditions porphyria, methaemoglobinaemia or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency

For most people, Emla Cream is very safe and doesn’t produce side effects. For those who do experience side effects, they’re usually mild and nothing to worry about. They include:

• Itching or tingling in the applied area
• Pale skin with red spots or mild swelling in the applied area

In very rare cases, some people may have an allergic reaction to Emla Cream. Seek immediate medical attention if:

• You get a skin rash including itchy, red, blistered, swollen or peeling skin
• You have trouble breathing
• You start wheezing
• Your chest or throat feels tight
• Your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start to swell

Always read the patient information leaflet before starting treatment.