The invention relates to a drug delivery system for the topical administration of anesthetic agents. For example, a topical anesthetic for rapid local anesthesia is provided. The topical anesthetic includes an anesthetic, volatile and non-volatile solvents, and an optional thickener. In addition, a method is taught for applying the topical anesthetic to the face of a patient without occlusion. The anesthetic is applied topically to an area for injection such that the dermatological procedure (cosmetic injections) can be performed in fifteen minutes.