I think the lidocaine has to be present in a concentrated amount.
The patches release only some over a long period of time-- a trickle effect.

So concentration may be a big factor and needed to get the wrinkling. Therefore, I do think the cream would be best to try.
My fingers started wrinkling within 10 minutes. In the study they mention 30 minutes. I sort of gooped it on and rubbed it in.
I didn't go past the first joint either or around the sides.

I'll do my right hand tonight. It tends to be more symptomatic than my left.