Getting a tattoo is a large choice—not only the design, but the process. One of the largest fears for individuals getting tattooed is pain. Whether it’s your first or fifteenth tattoo, the bite of the needle can be daunting. That’s where tattoo numbing creams are useful. But with all the products available in 2025, how do you select the correct one for a pain-free, comfortable experience?
This book will walk you through it all: how they work, what to be aware of, how to apply them, and what to anticipate—so you can concentrate on the art, not the pain.
How Do Tattoo Numbing Creams Actually Work?
Tattoo numbing creams numb the pain receptors on your skin. If you apply a numbing cream prior to your tattooing, it prevents nerve impulses from being transmitted to the brain. This reduces the sensation of the needle to a significant degree—or, in some instances, not at all.
Most numbing creams contain active ingredients such as lidocaine or the equivalent. These are referred to as local anesthetics. They numb the outer layers of your skin for a limited amount of time, so you can have the tattooing done with much less pain. These creams do not eliminate all the sensations, however; pressure, vibrations, and some sensation remain.
What Should You Consider Before Choosing a Numbing Cream?
Before buying or using a numbing cream, it’s worth knowing what to look for. Not all of them are created equal, and your session length, tattoo location, and your skin type might play a role in your choice.
The following are some things to look at closely:
- Strength of Active Ingredients: Strive to have a cream that has potent active ingredients. 5% Lidocaine is the benchmark for highly effective products.
- Effect Duration: There are creams that take less than an hour to clear, and there are ones that take hours. Get one that’s as long as your tattooing session.
- Skin Sensitivity: If you have sensitive skin, choose a cream that’s hypoallergenic or dermatologically tested.
- Ease of Application: Opt for a cream that is easy to apply and does not need special equipment or handling.
- Time of Absorption: Some numbing creams take 20–30 minutes to become effective, while others take as long as an hour.
Is Numbing Cream Safe for Everyone?
Most tattoo numbing creams are safe for most people to use if applied properly. There are a few things to be aware of, however.
Certain people can be allergic or sensitive to the ingredients. A patch test 24 hours prior to your session is a great way to be ready. Pregnant and nursing women need to check with a doctor prior to using numbing products. People with certain heart conditions or skin ailments might have to steer clear of these products as well.
Abused, for instance, used in large quantities or on bruised skin, numbing creams can cause side effects such as irritation, swelling, or temporary discoloration.
Where on the Body Does Numbing Cream Help the Most?
There are certain more sensitive areas of the body than others. Numbing creams are particularly convenient when getting tattooed on parts of the body with thin skin or near bones. These are:
- Ribs
- Ankles
- Inner arms
- Spine
- Chest
- Neck
- Groin area
In these areas, pain is usually worse because of the nerve concentration and absence of fat cushioning. Applying numbing cream to these areas can make a big difference in your comfort.
How Do You Use Tattoo Numbing Cream Best?
Proper application of the cream is necessary to get the most benefit. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide:
- Clean the Area: Warm water and soap have to be applied to wash the skin thoroughly in order to clean out oils and dirt.
- Dry Completely: Dry the area. Humidity will weaken the cream.
- Apply a Thick Layer: Gloves have to be used and apply a thick layer over the tattoo area without rubbing it in.
- Cover with Plastic Wrap: Traps heat and humidity, allowing the cream to penetrate better.
- Wait the Proper Length of Time: Let it set for 30 to 60 minutes depending on the instructions from the cream.
- Peel Off Wrap Before Tattoo: Clean the skin immediately prior to session start.
Getting it done right can mean longer and more consistent numbing.
When Should You Never Use Numbing Cream?
There are a couple of situations in which using numbing cream just won’t be ideal:
- Over Broken or Irritated Skin: If your skin is broken, the cream might sting or be problematic.
- Too Close to the Eyes or Mouth: These are too sensitive and not safe for topical anesthetics.
- For Very Small Tattoos: If your tattoo is small and swift, you may not need to numb up whatsoever.
- Without Proper Testing: Never use a fresh cream without trying it out first for allergic reactions.
Use your discretion and consult your tattoo artist’s advice if necessary.
How Long Does Tattoo Numbing Cream Last?
The longevity a numbing cream will last is based on the product and how it’s applied. Generally speaking, you’re looking at 1.5 to 4 hours of numbness. There are some premium products that will last even longer—6 hours with proper application and reapplication as needed.
Environmental conditions also play a role. Heat or sensitivity to tattooing can limit the effect. The individual’s own chemistry in their skin can cause some individuals to become numb faster than others.
What Are Side Effects of Using Numbing Cream?
Side effects are uncommon, but they can occur. Below are some that you may encounter:
- Redness or Irritation: It is typically temporary and minor.
- Itching or Burning Sensation: Usually from allergic reaction or abuse.
- Swelling: Especially when used on sensitive skin or in excess.
- Irregular Skin Texture: The cream can cause slight puffiness, which can affect tattoo precision in extreme cases.
Patch test and follow instructions to avoid risks.
Does Numbing Cream Affect the Tattooing Process?
- This is a common inquiry, and the answer is: it depends. A well-engineered numbing cream, properly applied, shouldn’t interfere with the tattoo machine, ink saturation, or the healing process.
- Too excessive use or abuse will occasionally rigidity the skin, which will make it more difficult for the needle to pierce. This may add a slight time to completing the tattoo.
- Most professional artists will know how to prevent this and can even suggest certain creams that work with their method.
Can You Reapply Numbing Cream During the Session?
You might need to reapply numbing cream in longer tattoo sessions. Reapplication is not always straightforward, though. The skin is usually broken halfway through a tattoo, and applying numbing cream to broken skin will cause more irritation.
Some artists allow a reapplication in the middle of a break, especially on uninked skin. Ask your artist before the session to arrange this ahead of time.
What Are a Few Secrets for Making Tattooing Less Painful—Even with No Cream?
Even if numbing cream is applied, there are secrets for making your session less painful:- Stay Hydrated: Better hydration means harder, less-sensitive skin to tattoo.
- Sleep Well the Night Before: Tiredness lowers pain tolerance.
- Eat Before Your Session: A full stomach stabilizes your blood sugar, reducing pain.
- Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol: They dilute your blood and make it harder to get tattooed.
- Take Deep Breaths: Deep breathing is what helps manage pain and stay calm.
