If I have an allergy to numbing cream, will I have an allergic reaction to dermal fillers?

Question

Each time the cream is applied, I get strange sensations through my body and my entire face immediately turns bright red (before the actual treatment) and stays that way for one to two weeks following non-ablative fraxel treatments. I am interested in dermal fillers for acne scarring and wrinkles but am concerned about reacting to the pain medications in the fillers. Should I have a skin test to check for allergic reactions before I proceed with any fillers?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

its easy to test if you are allergic, skin testing can be done by your dermatologist.  For acne scars, you can use Radiesse without numbing or other fillers without and just do icing.  I like Bellafill for acne scars, but it contains lidocaine in it.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

It would be relatively straightforward to do a skin test using a small amount of a dermal filler. Since you have intense skin reactions to topical numbing medications, this may be worthwhile. Alternatively can also get skin testing to the different ingredients within the topical medications.  There are different formulations out there, and it may be worthwhile to see which formulation works with you.  If you can tolerate lidocaine, then you should be able to tolerated dermal fillers.

If I have an allergy to numbing cream, will I have an allergic reaction to dermal fillers?

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If I have an allergy to numbing cream, will I have an allergic reaction to dermal fillers?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.