Laser hair removal is a long-term hair removal method that can be very effective, but it can also be painful. To reduce this pain, it is common to use an anesthetic cream before the session. BLT cream is a numbing cream specifically designed for laser hair removal. In this article, we will examine the history of BLT cream (Benzocaine, Lidocaine, Tetracaine), its composition and mode of action, as well as the advantages and precautions to consider when using it for laser hair removal. We will also compare BLT cream with EMLA cream, another anesthetic cream commonly used for laser hair removal.
History of BLT cream
BLT cream (for Benzocaine, Lidocaine, Tetracaine) was developed by the company Hale Cosmeceuticals. The company was founded in 1997 by a dermatologist and a pharmacist who wanted to create medical grade cosmetic and dermatological products. BLT cream was developed for use in laser treatments, such as laser hair removal, to reduce pain and discomfort.
Characteristics of BLT cream
BLT cream is a combination of three active ingredients: benzocaine, lidocaine and tetracaine. These ingredients work together to numb the skin and reduce pain. The BLT cream is applied to the skin before the laser hair removal session and left on for approximately 30 minutes. The numbing effect of the BLT cream can last up to an hour.
One of the advantages of BLT cream is that it is very effective in reducing the pain associated with laser hair removal. However, there are also precautions to be taken when using it. BLT cream should not be applied to irritated or injured skin, and it should not be used in patients with a known allergy to any of the active ingredients in the cream.
Use of BLT cream for laser hair removal
Before applying BLT cream, it is important to prepare the skin by cleansing and drying it thoroughly. The cream is then applied in a thick layer on the area to be treated, and covered with a plastic film to improve absorption. After about 30 minutes, the cream is removed and the laser hair removal session can begin.
Comparison with EMLA cream
EMLA cream is another anesthetic cream commonly used for laser hair removal. Although BLT cream and EMLA cream share similarities in terms of effectiveness, duration of action and precautions to be taken into account, there are differences between the two that may influence the user’s choice.
First, the composition of the two creams is different. BLT cream contains benzocaine, lidocaine, and tetracaine, whereas EMLA cream contains lidocaine and prilocaine. As a result, BLT cream may be more effective for some people who do not respond well to lidocaine alone, while EMLA cream may be preferable for people who are allergic or sensitive to the other ingredients in BLT cream.
In addition, BLT Cream generally has a shorter duration of action than EMLA Cream. BLT cream should be applied 30 to 60 minutes before laser hair removal and the effect lasts about 30 to 45 minutes, while EMLA cream should be applied at least one hour before laser hair removal and the effect lasts about 1 to 2 hours. Therefore, if you have a longer laser hair removal session or are particularly sensitive to pain, EMLA cream may be a better option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, BLT anesthetic cream is an effective and safe product to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with laser hair removal. By using a combination of benzocaine, lidocaine and tetracaine, BLT cream offers a convenient alternative to other anesthetic creams. However, it is important to take the necessary precautions before use and to consider the differences between BLT cream and EMLA cream before making a choice. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal needs and pain tolerance.