Is this an allergic reaction to numbing cream?

Question

I had Belotero on nasolabial lines yesterday. When the doctor applied the numbing cream it burned and she said my skin looked very white where she applied it. Once the numbing sensation subsided the skin where she applied it burned. Is this an allergic reaction or is it normal to have sore burnt like skin like this after dermal fillers? It’s the first time I’ve have fillers so not sure what to expect! On a positive note my lines are much better so I’m happy with the Belotero results

Philip K. Robb Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question, It is possible that you had a minor skin reaction to the numbing cream. Reactions to belotero are very very rare. Also some bruising is possible after a filler treatment. I would recommend contacting your doctor and they may want to see you to ensure that everything is going ok. Hope this helps and God Bless!Dr. Robb Jr.

Amy Lewis, MD · Answer

I am sorry this is your first filler experience and you have a complication. Many people have irritant or allergic reactions to topical numbing and your description of symptoms when the cream was applied support this. If this is the only area where the cream was applied you probably have your answer. You cannot completely rule out a reaction to the dermal filler or lidocaine in the formulation of the filler, but these  are much much less likely.
I would start with antihistamines ( 24 hr non-sedating like Zyrtec or Xyzal) and add benedryl when drowsiness is not an issue. Also use a topical steroid cream twice a day, and possibly oral steroids from your physician if worsens. Zinc oxide OTC preparations can help sooth the redness and burning if that persists. 
I would recommend you with use a different numbing cream or none at all in the future.  Your injector  can use a cool mist spray prior to injecting that numbs the area without risking this type of reaction. 
Good luck !

Fred J. Bressler, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your post. I am sorry that you've experienced this skin issue, as this not the normal appearance following topical cream or filler. From your description of sensation with the application of the cream, it is likely that this is a contact dermatitis or allergic reaction to the cream. If the skin reaction is exactly where the topical cream was applied, this would support this diagnosis. Ask your physician to evaluate your skin and consider benadryl, steroids or steroid cream for treatment. There are other options for Rx as well. Some patients have dermal reactions to the filler itself, so this is also a possibility. You should avoid this cream in the future. Hope this helps.

Is this an allergic reaction to numbing cream?

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Is this an allergic reaction to numbing cream?

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Everything you need to know about Belotero

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