Do Tattoo Numbing Creams Really Work?

• Tetracaine – stronger, combined with lidocaine for more intense numbing.
• Epinephrine – a vasoconstrictor that minimizes bleeding and swelling.

These chemicals absorb into the skin and briefly prevent pain impulses from reaching your brain.

How to use tattoo numbing creams effectively?

What is proper application for the best results?

Proper use has an immense impact on the effectiveness of the numbing cream. Wrong application may have little to no effect.

Tutorial to use the numbing cream: 

• Clear the skin – Clean the surface using soap and water to sweep away dirt and oil.
• Dry the skin – Gently pat with a towel to dry it.
• Put on a thick layer – Do not rub it in. Apply it evenly over the tattoo region.
• Cover with plastic wrap – This will aid in your skin’s absorption of the cream.
• Wait for 45–60 minutes – Timing is important. Too soon or too late will diminish the effect.
• Take off the wrap and wipe away excess – Just before the tattooing process starts.

Be sure to discuss this with your tattoo artist in advance. Some like to do it themselves or don’t permit it at all.

How long does the numbing actually last? 

Will it last throughout a whole tattoo session? 

Most numbing creams last anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the product and ingredients. Some of the more potent formulas will last up to 4 hours, but everyone is different.

Factors that influence how long it lasts:

• Your skin type – Oily or thicker skin can absorb the cream differently.
• The body area – Some areas of the body respond better than others.
• Tattoo size and length – Bigger tattoos that take hours might last longer than the numbing effect.
• Your pain threshold – Some individuals might feel the effect wear off earlier because they’re more sensitive.
• It’s vital to note that numbing creams do not numb 100% of the pain, particularly in case your tattooing session lasts more than 3 hours.

Are tattoo numbing creams 100% safe to use?

What are the risks or side effects?

In general, numbing creams are safe when used according to the instructions. However, like any product used on the skin, side effects or an allergic reaction may occur.

Possible side effects:

• Skin irritation – Redness, itching, or rash at the site of application.
• Swelling – Particularly if you apply too much cream.
• Numbness outside the area of the tattoo – If accidentally cream spreads.
• Allergic reactions – Unusual, but a few individuals are sensitive to lidocaine or other ingredients.
• Risk of infection – If skin is not clean before applying.
• To minimize the risk, perform a patch test 24 hours prior to your appointment. Put a small amount on another spot of skin and observe for any reaction.

Do tattoo artists recommend or accept numbing creams? 

Why do some artists dislike using them? 

Not all tattoo artists favor numbing creams. While most accept their use, others steer clear of them for professional or safety reasons.

Why some artists dislike using numbing creams:

• Skin texture changes – Creams cause the skin to become slippery or rubbery.
• Unreliable results – They don’t always numb consistently.
• Pain comes back halfway through the session – When the effect wears off, pain feels worse.
• Delays – Waiting for the cream to work can waste precious time.
• Possible allergic reactions – Artists don’t want to risk complications.
• That said, many artists understand their clients’ fear of pain and will work with you if you talk about it honestly before your session.

Are there alternatives to numbing creams for reducing tattoo pain? 

What other methods can help make the process more comfortable? 

If numbing cream isn’t an option or you want to try other ways to manage pain, there are a few alternatives you can consider.

Non-cream ways to deal with tattoo pain: 

• Breathe deeply and slowly – It relaxes your body and lessens tension.
• Stay cool and keep eating – Low blood sugar can increase pain sensitivity.
• Break frequently – Inform your artist when you must take a break.
• Distract yourself – Listen to music or concentrate on a visual spot.
• Get plenty of rest the night before – Sleep deprivation lowers your pain tolerance.
• These won’t prevent pain entirely but can make getting a tattoo less painful to manage.