The importance of the clinical goal of improving absorption of topical anesthesia has already prompted efforts aimed at improving delivery and efficacy of topically applied local anesthetics. Previous investigations have demonstrated utility - and limitations - of various methods of traversing and/or stripping the stratum corneum. Among the techniques studied have been use of electrical energy (iontophoresis),14 sound waves (sonophoresis),15, 16 adhesive tape17-19 and lasers.11, 12, 20, 21 While these varying approaches all have promise, their limitations leave room for assessment of a new method if it promises to be safe, painless, and effective.