Topical anesthetics for cosmetic and laser dermatology.

Many effective and simple topical anesthetic products are available today and commonly used in medical and non-medical settings. The increased use of topical anesthetics, especially by non-physicians in the medical and non-medical settings, has resulted in increased rates of complications including ineffective anesthesia, allergy, and even potential fatalities. This review focuses on various techniques and formulations for topical anesthesia and their appropriate applications in cosmetic and laser dermatology. In addition, the history, pharmacology, and clinical complications of topical anesthetics are discussed.