Best OTC Drugs 2024

Best OTC Choices in Topical Anesthetics (not oral)

Applying an over-the-counter anesthetic can offer relief from a burn, bite or other minor injury. Here are Money’s picks for the best anesthetics to apply topically, along with data on their active ingredients and general notes about their efficacy and side effects.

The selections were chosen by drugs.com, using a methodology that combines expert assessment with analysis of online reviews, ratings and other customer data.

The information provided on Money.com is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products featured may not be right for everyone and may carry risk even if available without a prescription. Read the product’s label and consult with a professional for individual medical advice.

Slide Table to Compare
Rank
Medication
Active Ingredients
Important Points
#3
Anesten Cream Lidocaine
  • Should apply 1 to 1.5 hours before tattoo
  • Not for use around eyes
  • Water-based
#2
Bactine Max Pain Relieving Cleansing Spray Benzalkonium Cl Lidocaine
  • Fast relief of burns
  • Safe for people 2 years and older
  • Can use up to 4 times a day
#5
Ebanel Numb 520 Lidocaine
  • Local and anorectal use
  • Works in 5 minutes
  • Fragrance-free
  • Non-greasy
#4
HUSH Gel Lidocaine Aloe leaf extract Calendula extract Chamomile extract Green tea extract Comfrey extract Menthol
  • Must allow 1 hour for absorption
  • Used for numbing before tattoo
#1
Lanacane Medicated cream Benzocaine
  • Fast-acting
  • Cream
#8
Numb Master Numbing cream Lidocaine
  • Works in 5 minutes
  • Non-greasy
  • Fragrance-free
#6
Numbskin Numbing cream Lidocaine
  • Fast-acting
  • Cream
#7
Vasocaine Lidocaine
  • Fast-acting
  • Spray
No results match.
TOP

Featured drugs are available without a prescription in the U.S. and may not be available with or without a prescription in other locations.