Tattoo Numbing Cream Myths – What’s True and What to Avoid

Although they don’t eliminate pain entirely, they can actually reduce discomfort quite a bit, especially for longer sessions or tattoos in sensitive spots (ribs, feet, spine, etc.).

Here’s why they work:

• Temporary nerve numbing: Reduces the amount of pain your nerves sense.
• Skin calming effects: Eases irritation and sensitivity post-tattoos.
• Better tolerance: Lets you sit for longer periods without interruptions.
• Yet, efficacy highly depends on good application, timing, and product quality.

Is It True That Tattoo Numbing Creams Harm the Skin?

It’s a widespread legend, and the truth is partially true. The numbing cream does not injure the skin if applied rightly and in modest amounts. Any issues can result from:

• Using too much of the cream
• The cream itself having unsafe or poor-quality constituents
• Leaving the cream for an extended duration on the skin
• Applying it to open or already-inked skin

When misused or abused, certain creams are likely to result in mild skin reactions—such as redness, itching, or swelling—but serious damage is unlikely. Always patch test in advance.

Do Tattoo Artists Hate It When You Use Numbing Cream?

Some do, some don’t—it all comes down to the artist.

Here’s why some will be reluctant:

• Creams can temporarily alter skin texture, making it harder to tattoo.
• Residual amounts could clog needles or disrupt ink flow.
• It could potentially make it harder to evaluate client pain and adjust appropriately.

That said, most artists now are happy to work around numbing cream if you inform them ahead of time. Discuss with your artist when you have your consultation and determine how they handle it. Respect is a two-way street, after all!

Will Numbing Cream Ruin the Tattoo Ink or Affect Healing?

This myth stems from the misunderstanding of the process of how tattoos are created. Tattoo ink is placed in the dermis, the layer beneath the epidermis where numbing creams reside.

Overall, high-quality numbing creams will not interfere with the tattoo ink, especially if they are applied properly and washed off before the session begins. However, using oily or greasy creams that leave a heavy residue on the skin might:

• Weaken the stencil
• Make the skin slippery
• Impact the artist’s visibility and technique

To avoid this, always follow the product directions and your artist’s directions. If you have your skin properly cleaned before tattooing, the risk of ink disruption is minimal.

Can You Develop a Tolerance to Numbing Cream Over Time?

It’s not likely. You won’t “build up a resistance” to numbing cream after one or two tattoos, but frequent use over a short time frame could result in diminished effectiveness through skin adaptation.

Further, some individuals’ skin simply reacts better to numbing agents than others. If it works for your first session, there’s a good chance that it’ll still work the next time—provided it’s used the same way.

Is Numbing Cream Only for Beginners or Low Pain Tolerance Individuals?

Not at all. Pain is subjective, and everyone has their own pain threshold. Even experienced tattoo veterans use numbing creams—particularly for:

• Long, multi-hour sessions
• Tattooing sensitive spots (ribs, sternum, hands, knees)
• Cover-up tattoos (which are more painful)
• Tattoo removal or laser sessions

Using numbing cream doesn’t make you “weak.” It just means you’re choosing comfort. Your body, your rules.

Do All Numbing Creams Work the Same?

Nope—and that’s why experiences differ so wildly.

There are different types of numbing products:

• Creams: Last longer, absorb into the skin.
• Gels: Act quicker but sometimes aren’t as good.
• Sprays: Used during the tattoo process for minor touch-ups.
• Ointments: Thicker but can impact ink.

All have pros and cons. Quality also depends greatly on brand, active components, and concentration levels. There are some over-the-counter items that hardly numb anything—while medical-grade creams provide powerful relief.

Choosing one? Look for:

• 4–5% lidocaine
• Skin-safe ingredients (aloe, vitamin E, etc.)
• Clear labels and clear use guidelines

How Should You Use Tattoo Numbing Cream Correctly?

Correct use is all. The most effective numbing cream will not work if you apply it improperly.

Easy steps for correct use:

• Wash the skin clean (no oils, lotions, or sweat).
• Apply a thick layer of the cream (not rubbed in).
• Wrap the area in plastic to allow it to soak in.
• Wait 45–60 minutes (consult product instructions).
• Remove wrap and wipe off excess cream just prior to tattooing.

If you are unsure, ask your tattoo artist if they can do it for you or if they can walk you through doing it yourself.

Is It Okay to Reapply Numbing Cream During a Tattoo Session?

Sometimes, yes—but not always.

Most topical numbing sprays are to be used in the session to “top up” the numbing after the skin has been broken. They are applied differently from pre-session cream and can be useful for long sessions.

But never reapply cream without your artist’s knowledge. Some products shouldn’t be applied to broken skin, and misreapplying could irritate or cause problems.