Microneedling and laser treatments have become some of the most sought‑after skin rejuvenation treatments in Georgia med spas and beyond. By creating micro-injuries in the epidermis and dermis, microneedling stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture, reduces scars, fine lines, and pigmentation. But comfort is key. Many clients dread pain or discomfort, especially in sensitive areas. A specific microneedling procedure that has blown up in popularity is Morpheus8.
As a reputable Georgia Med Spa Compounding Pharmacy, we’ll break down the main active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) commonly used in numbing, pre‑procedure, and post‑procedure comfort protocols. We’ll cover how they work, peer‑reviewed evidence supporting them, and hypothetical situations in which specific medications are the right choice. This information is educational, not a substitute for medical advice, but it can help practitioners and clients understand options.
Morpheus8: Why Comfort & Healing Matter
Morpheus8 is one of the most advanced skin rejuvenation services available today, combining microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy. This dual technology creates controlled micro-injuries while delivering heat into the deeper dermal layers, stimulating collagen remodeling, fat contouring, and skin tightening.
While results are impressive — smoother texture, firmer contours, reduced scars, and wrinkles — the procedure can also be uncomfortable without proper preparation. This is where compounded numbing and post-care medications become critical for both patient satisfaction and outcomes.
Why Numbing is Essential for Morpheus8
- Deeper Penetration = More Sensation
Unlike standard microneedling, Morpheus8 needles reach subdermal depths, delivering RF heat. Without anesthesia, patients often experience significant discomfort. - Customized Anesthetic Creams
Compounded blends of lidocaine, tetracaine, benzocaine, or prilocaine help ensure the numbing penetrates to the right depth and lasts for the entire session. - Adjuncts for Reduced Bruising
Compounds that contain vasoconstrictors, like phenylephrine, can help reduce bleeding and post-procedure bruising.
Post-Treatment Comfort & Skin Recovery
After Morpheus8, the skin is often red, warm, and sensitive — similar to a sunburn. Supporting recovery is just as important as numbing before the procedure.
Compounded soothing and repair formulations can:
- Hydrate and restore the barrier with hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate gels
- Calm redness and sensitivity with beta glucan and niacinamide
- Reduce oxidative stress with antioxidants like vitamin C and CoQ10
- Support collagen rebuilding with peptides, retinoids, or low-dose growth-supporting actives (if indicated post-downtime)
Practitioner Perspective
For Georgia med spa providers, offering Morpheus8 with personalized numbing and recovery protocols enhances:
- Patient comfort → more likely to return for recommended treatment series
- Treatment precision → less patient movement during session improves results
- Recovery confidence → patients feel cared for and guided through healing
Patient Potential Benefits in a Nutshell
- More tolerable therapy sessions
- Reduced downtime and visible redness
- Faster return to daily life
- Better overall skin rejuvenation outcomes
Morpheus8 is a results-driven service — but the patient experience is equally important. By pairing it with tailored numbing creams and recovery compounds, Georgia providers can deliver both outstanding outcomes and a comfortable journey for their clients.
Main Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients in Aesthetic Dermatology & How They Work
Below are the most commonly used agents for numbing or promoting comfort around microneedling or laser treatments, as well as for general skin health benefits. Many protocols use combinations to get optimal effect: onset, depth, duration, side effects. Ask our pharmacy for recommendations.
Lidocaine
Class / Type: Amide-type local anesthetic
Onset & Duration Features: Relatively fast onset, moderate duration; often used in creams, gels, or compounded blends.
Key Considerations / Risks: Metabolized in liver; risk in overuse or on large surface areas; potential systemic absorption; rare but possible allergic reactions.
Prilocaine
Class / Type: Amide-type local anesthetic
Onset & Duration Features: Often used in eutectic mixture with lidocaine (e.g., EMLA cream); improves skin penetration; duration similar or somewhat less than lidocaine alone in some settings.
Key Considerations / Risks: Prilocaine metabolism can produce o‑toluidine, risk for methemoglobinemia especially in certain populations (infants, G6PD deficiency).
Tetracaine
Class / Type: Ester‑type local anesthetic
Onset & Duration Features: More potent, longer lasting; deeper penetration especially in compounded creams; slower onset relative to some amides but useful for longer procedures.
Key Considerations / Risks: Esters more likely to trigger allergic reactions; metabolized differently; systemic toxicity risks when used in high doses or over large areas.
Benzocaine
Class / Type: Ester‑type local anesthetic
Onset & Duration Features: Very fast surface effect; good for very superficial numbing; often in combination blends to enhance speed of numbing.
Key Considerations / Risks: Allergic potential; some risk of methemoglobinemia; less depth, shorter duration if used alone.
Phenylephrine HCl
Class / Type: Alpha-adrenergic vasoconstrictor
Onset & Duration Features: Prolongs anesthesia by reducing local blood flow; reduces redness & bruising.
Key Considerations / Risks: Should be avoided in patients with hypertension or cardiovascular risks.
Estriol
Class / Type: Bioidentical estrogen
Onset & Duration Features: Increases collagen and skin elasticity; beneficial in postmenopausal aging skin.
Key Considerations / Risks: Minimal systemic absorption at topical doses; avoid in estrogen-sensitive conditions.
Tretinoin
Class / Type: Retinoid (vitamin A acid)
Onset & Duration Features: Boosts cell turnover and collagen; effective for acne and photoaging.
Key Considerations / Risks: Can cause irritation, peeling, or sun sensitivity; contraindicated in pregnancy.
Retinol
Class / Type: Retinoid (vitamin A precursor)
Onset & Duration Features: Gentler than tretinoin; improves tone and texture over time.
Key Considerations / Risks: Less potent; still may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
DMAE
Class / Type: Cell membrane stabilizer
Onset & Duration Features: Promotes firmness and skin tone by increasing muscle tone and hydration.
Key Considerations / Risks: Occasional irritation or tingling in some users.
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
Class / Type: Antioxidant
Onset & Duration Features: Brightens skin, promotes collagen, protects from free radical damage.
Key Considerations / Risks: May cause stinging in sensitive skin or at high concentrations.
CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)
Class / Type: Mitochondrial antioxidant
Onset & Duration Features: Protects against oxidative stress; improves skin smoothness and elasticity.
Key Considerations / Risks: Rare allergic reactions; generally safe.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Class / Type: Antioxidant
Onset & Duration Features: Reduces inflammation and environmental damage; supports skin repair.
Key Considerations / Risks: Can cause irritation in some formulations; potent at low concentrations.
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide (Matrixyl)
Class / Type: Signal peptide
Onset & Duration Features: Stimulates collagen synthesis; firms and smooths skin.
Key Considerations / Risks: Minimal irritation; acts over weeks to months.
Acetyl Dipeptide
Class / Type: Neuropeptide
Onset & Duration Features: Calms muscle contractions; helps with expression lines and sensitivity.
Key Considerations / Risks: Well tolerated; cosmetic use only.
Beta Glucan
Class / Type: Skin repair polysaccharide
Onset & Duration Features: Immune modulator; reduces redness, inflammation, and supports healing.
Key Considerations / Risks: Excellent for post-procedure care; minimal risks.
Hyaluronic Acid / Sodium Hyaluronate
Class / Type: Humectant / moisturizer
Onset & Duration Features: Attracts moisture; promotes healing and hydration during recovery phase
Key Considerations / Risks: No major risks; can sting if barrier is damaged.
Phytonadione (Vitamin K1)
Class / Type: Vitamin / healing cofactor
Onset & Duration Features: Helps resolve bruising and vascular discoloration.
Key Considerations / Risks: Low risk; useful post-injection or laser.
Phytic Acid
Class / Type: AHA / pigment modulator
Onset & Duration Features: Brightens skin, inhibits melanin, provides antioxidant protection.
Key Considerations / Risks: Mild exfoliant; usually well tolerated.
Evidence from Peer‑Reviewed Journal Articles
We’ve compiled several peer‑reviewed studies to support the use of these agents, alone and in combination, specifically in microneedling or similar dermatologic procedures.
- Effect of Microneedle Pretreatment on Topical Anesthesia with Lidocaine Cream, 4%
A randomized trial showed that pretreating skin with microneedles (tiny punctures) before applying 4% lidocaine cream speeds up onset of anesthesia in the application area. What would normally take ~60 minutes can reach sufficient effect in ~30 minutes (and sometimes ~10 minutes among pain‑sensitive individuals) for microneedling‑type pain stimuli. JAMA Dermatology - Dermal Effects & Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream (EMLA)
A 2023 study in BMC Pharmacology & Toxicology evaluated 2.5% lidocaine + 2.5% prilocaine eutectic cream applied under occlusion in healthy volunteers. They reported on onset, duration, local skin effects, and systemic absorption. This supports that this combination is effective and safe for superficial skin anesthesia. BMC Pharmacology and Toxicology - Eutectic Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream (EMLA) — Review of Clinical Use
Buckley & Benfield (1993) provided a comprehensive review of 5% EMLA cream (2.5% lidocaine + 2.5% prilocaine), showing effectiveness for venipuncture, minor dermatologic surgery, pediatric use for minor lesions, etc. Drugs - Comparative Effectiveness of Short Contact (30‑minute) Lidocaine/Tetracaine vs Lidocaine/Prilocaine
A more recent article in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology compared two mixture agents (LTTA – 7% lidocaine/7% tetracaine, and LPTA – 2.5% lidocaine/2.5% prilocaine) when applied under shorter contact times than manufacturer instructions, relevant to med spa settings when time may be constrained. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology - Topical Local Anesthesia: Focus on Lidocaine‑Tetracaine Combination
A review article in DovePress explored the pharmacology and rationale for using lidocaine + tetracaine combinations, especially for procedures needing deeper anesthesia and longer duration. Local and Regional Anesthesia
Hypothetical Scenarios: When to Choose Each Medication/Combination
Here are some clinical or med spa scenarios, illustrating when one agent or combination may be a better choice.
A. Shallow Microneedling on Face (Fine Lines, ~30 min, Sensitive Skin)
Best Choice: Lidocaine 4–5% alone, applied 30 min under occlusion
Rationale:
Fast onset
Relatively low risk
Sensitive skin risks minimized by avoiding strong ester anesthetics
Deeper microneedling / RF microneedling or microneedling on body (neck, chest), longer session
Best Choice: Compounded blend (e.g., lidocaine + tetracaine ± benzocaine, “BLT” creams)
Rationale:
Greater depth requires agents that penetrate deeper and remain active
Tetracaine provides longer duration
Benzocaine speeds surface numbing
Need quick procedure start; busy usage schedule
Best Choice:
Pre-treatment with microneedle pretreatment to enhance lidocaine onset
Fast-acting ester combination applied under occlusion
Rationale:
Pretreatment or occlusion accelerates onset
Supported by studies (e.g., JAMA Dermatology)
Post‑procedure comfort / minimizing inflammation, discomfort
Best Choice:
Topical agents (low-strength lidocaine)
Cold compresses
Soothing or anti-inflammatory topicals
Optional low-dose epinephrine if swelling/bleeding is significant (provider discretion)
Rationale:
Supports healing
Reduces discomfort and inflammation after numbing wears off
Why Georgia’s Med Spa Pharmacy’s Protocols May Be Advantageous
- Access to compounded anesthetic blends: Georgia providers can work with compounding pharmacies to create formulations (e.g., BLT creams) tailored to therapy depth, patient sensitivity, and duration.
- High‑quality APIs (lidocaine, tetracaine, etc.) can be sourced and quality controlled, which ensures potential consistency in onset, efficacy, and safety.
- Providing patient education so clients know what to expect on onset, removal, and post‑procedure care, improving satisfaction and safety.
How to Use the Morgan Compounding Pharmacy Rx Order Forms (For Georgia Providers)
To streamline dermatologic services such as microneedling, laser therapy, and chemical peels, Morgan Compounding Pharmacy in Alpharetta, Georgia offers a simple, pre-structured Prescription Order Form specifically designed for med spas and dermatology practices.
We tailored these forms to support clinicians with fast, accurate, and compliant prescribing of compounded topical anesthetics and post-procedure comfort medications.
Here’s how it works:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Download or Request Access to the Form
Access is easy — simply request access and our team will provide a password for you to access all the different Rx Order Forms. The Dermatology Numbing Cream and Aesthetic Dermatology Rx Order Forms make it simple for med spas to order medications for their patients.
- Fill in Patient & Prescriber Information
- Patient name, date of birth, allergies, and contact info
- Prescriber name, DEA, NPI, and clinic contact details. This ensures proper documentation and traceability.
- Choose the Appropriate Medication Category
- Microneedling creams (e.g., Benzocaine / Lidocaine / Tetracaine)
- Laser Treatment formulations with higher concentrations or different bases
- Other Dermatologic Services such as hydroquinone, tretinoin, kojic acid, or azelaic acid for skin lightening, texture, or post-procedure care
- Check the Desired Formulation
Simply check the box next to your preferred compound. Options are available in Transdermal Lipoderm or Plasticized bases depending on depth, duration, and skin penetration needed. Choose from the most commonly prescribed formulations used in aesthetics and dermatology. Customize strengths and other options. - Prescriber Authorization
Initial and sign the form to indicate clinical necessity. This meets Georgia compounding law requirements and supports your patient’s chart documentation. - Submit by Fax or Email
- Fax: (770) 809-5048
- Email: pharmacist@morgancompounding.com
Morgan Compounding’s team will prepare the medication promptly and will reach out if any clinical or regulatory concerns arise.
Why Georgia Practitioners Love Our Rx Order Form
- No need to write out custom compounds each time — save time on every order
- Compliant with Georgia Board of Pharmacy regulations
- Customizable dosing and formulation options
- Backed by a compounding pharmacy with aesthetic dermatology expertise
- Fast turnarounds and friendly local support
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re a medical spa owner, dermatology clinic, or aesthetic injector in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, or anywhere in Georgia — this form is your gateway to faster, safer, and more consistent patient outcomes.
Download the form or contact us at (770) 475-8903 to have a starter kit sent directly to your office.
References
- Bryant, B., Kim, D., Cernik, C., & Hruza, G. (2011). A novel topical anesthetic for dermatologic procedures: Efficacy, tolerability, and safety of a lidocaine/tetracaine cream. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 10(9), 1001–1007. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21779419/
- Buckley, M. M., & Benfield, P. (1993). Eutectic lidocaine/prilocaine cream. A review of the topical anaesthetic/analgesic efficacy of a eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics (EMLA). Drugs, 46(1), 126–151. https://doi.org/10.2165/00003495-199346010-00008
- Ditre, C. M., Griffin, T. D., Murphy, G. F., Sueki, H., Telegan, B., Johnson, W. C., & Yu, R. J. (1996). Effects of alpha hydroxy acids on photoaged skin: A pilot clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural study. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 34(2), 187–195. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8700602/
- Draelos, Z. D., Ertel, K. D., Berge, C. A., & Weir, D. (2006). Niacinamide-containing facial moisturizer improves skin barrier and benefits subjects with rosacea. Cutis, 77(3 Suppl), 17–24. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/
- Grossman, R. (2005). The role of dimethylaminoethanol in cosmetic dermatology. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 6(1), 39–47. https://doi.org/10.2165/00128071-200506010-00005
- Hoppe, U., Bergemann, J., Diembeck, W., Ennen, J., Gohla, S., Harris, I., … & Sauermann, G. (1999). Coenzyme Q10, a cutaneous antioxidant and energizer. BioFactors, 9(2-4), 371–378. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10355449/
- Kim, J. Y., Kim, J. H., Lee, Y. J., Park, W., & Kim, H. S. (2009). The effect of beta-glucan on human skin in vivo. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 31(6), 389–395. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00524.x
- Kohen, R., & Gati, I. (2000). Skin low molecular weight antioxidants and their role in aging and in oxidative stress. Toxicology, 148(2-3), 149–157. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0300-483X(00)00206-0
- Li, L., Cai, B., Li, H., Wei, J., Tao, L., & Ma, P. (2023). Dermal effects and pharmacokinetic evaluation of the lidocaine/prilocaine cream in healthy Chinese volunteers. BMC Pharmacology and Toxicology, 24, 51. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40360-023-00690-x
- Maffei, S., Guiducci, L., Cugusi, L., & Gori, A. M. (2004). Topical estriol and estradiol effects on skin collagen and thickness in postmenopausal women: A pilot study. Maturitas, 48(4), 307–313. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2003.09.030
- Pavicic, T., Korting, H. C., & Schäfer-Korting, M. (2007). Beyond barrier repair: Nonspecific immunomodulation by topical hydrating agents. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 20(4), 207–215. https://doi.org/10.1159/000102962
- Sivamani, R. K., Stoeber, B., Wu, G. C., Zhai, H., & Maibach, H. I. (2016). Effect of microneedle pretreatment on topical anesthesia with lidocaine cream: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Dermatology, 152(4), 476–482. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2015.5544
- Weinberg, J. M., & Solish, N. (2015). Topical local anesthesia: Focus on lidocaine–tetracaine combination. Local and Regional Anesthesia, 8, 23–29. https://doi.org/10.2147/LRA.S55583