Topical anesthetics in dermatology.

Topical anesthetics are valuable tools for the dermatologists. The purpose of this study is to educate dermatologists about the pharmacology and clinical applications of topical anesthetics. A review of the current topical anesthetics was conducted. Several topical anesthetics are available to provide safe and effective cutaneous analgesia. Patient care can be improved by reducing the discomfort of local procedures and by minimizing the side effects of the anesthetics.