What changed and why it matters
Lidocaine is a numbing ingredient. It can make something feel less sensitive fast. But for everyday grooming problems, especially skin that needs recovery and hair that needs consistency, numb is not the goal.
Our stance
We removed lidocaine so the formula could focus on what riders actually want: a calmer surface, a supported barrier, and better looking hair over time.
Why lidocaine did not fit this product
- It can mask feedback. When you are managing skin, you want clarity. You want to know if the routine is helping.
- It is not the same as recovery. Sensation changes do not equal healthier skin or healthier hair.
- It pulled the formula toward a feel-first promise. We build function-first grooming that holds up in real barns.
What we built instead
Removing lidocaine gave us room to prioritize a naturally derived, show safe leave in approach that supports skin comfort and hair condition without turning the product into a temporary cover up.
- Skin support mindset. Focus on calm, consistent use where the skin lives, under blankets, tack, sweat, and weather.
- Hair strength mindset. Support slip and manageability so you get less breakage during brushing and braiding.
- Routine friendly. A product that fits daily life, not a once a month miracle story.
How to use Skin and Hair Enhancer for best results
This is a leave in routine. Consistency beats intensity.
- Start with clean, dry or mostly dry hair and skin. If you need a no rinse reset, use waterless shampoo first.
- Apply Skin and Hair Enhancer to the target area. Focus on the skin line, not just the hair ends.
- Work it in with your fingers or a soft brush. Do not scrub irritated skin.
- Repeat daily during flare ups, then scale to a maintenance rhythm that fits your barn.
If your horse has open wounds, severe dermatitis, or signs of infection, involve your veterinarian. This article is education, not medical advice.
Rain rot support, without the shortcut
Rain rot type issues are often a mix of moisture, friction, and a skin barrier that is losing the fight. A leave in conditioner style product should help you keep the surface calmer so grooming can get back to normal.
- Use it where sweat and moisture sit: girth line, saddle pad zones, rump, and along the neck under blankets.
- Pair it with a simple cleaning step, not harsh stripping.
- Stay steady for a full cycle, then evaluate. Most routines fail because people change products too fast.
If you want the fastest path
Take the quiz and we will point you to the best routine for your exact scenario. Start the Solution Finder.
FAQ
Is ShowBarn Secret® Skin and Hair Enhancer lidocaine free?
Is it show safe?
How often should I use it for rain rot prone skin?
Can I use it on mane and tail for growth?
What should I pair it with?
Next steps
If you came here because your horse is losing hair, breaking mane, or getting that seasonal skin funk, do the simple thing. Start a calm routine and stay with it long enough to judge it fairly.
