Does Tattoo Numbing Cream Actually Work? Here’s the Truth
With the tattoo industry booming, numbing creams are becoming increasingly popular among clients who want a more comfortable experience. However, as their use grows, so do the questions: Does numbing cream work for tattoos? And more importantly, is it safe to use?
In simple terms, yes, numbing creams do work, and they are generally safe when used correctly. But there are a few important things to keep in mind: not all creams are created equal, and results vary depending on your pain tolerance and skin type.
That’s why in this guide, we’ll cover how tattoo numbing creams actually work, what ingredients to look for, their pros and cons, and the right way to use them for the best results.
Tattoo Numbing Cream: Does It Really Work?
Tattoo numbing creams are topical anesthetics that are formulated to dull or reduce the pain sensation during a tattoo session. Most numbing creams include active ingredients such as lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, or tetracaine.
It’s important to note that these creams don’t completely eliminate pain. Instead, they lower the intensity, taking it from a sharp 10 to a much more manageable level.
This isn’t magic; it's science. Research published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that 70% of people using lidocaine-based numbing creams report a more comfortable experience.
They’re especially helpful for those with low pain tolerance or for tattoos on particularly sensitive areas such as the ribs, neck, or inner arm.
Source: Tattoogenesis
How Does Numbing Cream Work for Tattoos?
Tattoo numbing creams work by targeting the pain pathways in your skin’s nerves. Normally, when a tattoo needle punctures the skin, the nerve endings detect the damage and immediately send pain signals to your brain. This is what makes the tattoo process feel sharp, painful, and uncomfortable.
The active ingredients in numbing creams work as local anesthetics. They temporarily block the pain channels, which means the pain signals never reach the brain. As a result, the area feels desensitized, and instead of sharp stings, you only feel slight discomfort.
Source: Healthline
Pros and Cons of Numbing Creams for Tattoos
Like any product or process, tattoo numbing creams come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks. Understanding both sides can help you decide whether using one is the right choice for your tattoo session.
Pros of Using Tattoo Numbing Creams
Here are some of the key benefits you can expect when using a numbing cream during your tattoo session:
1. Limits Mobility
Sitting for hours while a needle punctures through your skin can be mentally and physically exhausting. Moreover, beginners may fidget, flinch, or move more. For beginners, especially, it’s common to fidget, flinch, or shift due to discomfort.
Numbing creams help minimize these reactions, allowing the tattoo artist to maintain a steady rhythm and stay focused without frequent interruptions.
2. Reduces Pain
Pain is the top reason why most people hesitate before booking a tattoo appointment. Numbing creams dull sharp pain and convert it into more tolerable pressure. This turns a potentially stressful experience less daunting and something you look forward to.
3. Faster Process
Tattoo artists need to have steady hands and precision to achieve clean lines and detailed shading. This demands intense focus and plenty of time, especially when working on a large design like a full sleeve tattoo.
By keeping the pain under control, numbing creams reduce the need for frequent breaks. As a result, the artist works more efficiently and delivers accurate results in less time.
4. Reduces Anxiety
Entering the studio with thoughts of how bad it might hurt only intensifies the pain. Tattoo numbing creams provide a psychological safety net. Even if they don't eliminate the pain, these creams ease pre-session anxiety and help you feel calmer.
5. Tattoo Difficult Locations
Specific tattoo locations, such as ribs, spine, and fingers, are known for being more painful due to thinner skin or close bone proximity. By applying a numbing cream before your session, you can make tattooing these challenging locations much more bearable. It allows you to explore bolder tattoo placements that people usually avoid due to fear of pain.
Cons of Using Tattoo Numbing Creams
While numbing creams can make the tattoo process more tolerable, they have some limitations, such as:
1. Short-Term Effect
Most numbing creams can only last for up to 3 hours, which is usually sufficient for small tattoos. However, for larger or more intricate pieces that take multiple hours, the numbing effect may wear off before the session ends. When this happens, the pain can return abruptly and often feels sharper because the skin hasn’t had time to gradually adjust to the sensation.
2. May Have Side Effects
Although numbing creams are generally safe, they're not risk-free. Some people may experience side effects, including drowsiness, seizures, respiratory distress, edema, and erythema. In rare cases, allergic reactions to active ingredients such as lidocaine or benzocaine may lead to severe swelling, itching, and redness.
3. Not Suitable for Everyone
People with certain medical conditions, such as liver and heart diseases, should avoid numbing creams. Epinephrine, which is added to enhance the anesthetic effect of numbing creams, can cause issues for people with cardiac problems. It can lead to skin blanching and increased heart rate, which may complicate the process.
Key Tip: Even if you don’t have an underlying medical condition that limits anesthetic use, always consult your tattoo artist before applying numbing creams. Some artists don’t prefer working on the skin with numbing cream, as it can alter the skin texture.
How to Use a Numbing Cream for Tattoos: Step-by-Step Guide
Source: Zensa Skincare
You can’t slather the numbing cream on and expect to see instant results. To actually feel the difference, you need to apply it the right way. Here’s how to use a numbing cream before getting a tattoo:
Step #1: Clean and Dry the Skin
Wash the tattoo area with mild soap and lukewarm water, then pat it dry with a clean towel. For best results, gently exfoliate with a loofah or scrub to remove dead skin cells and debris.
Step #2: Apply a Thick Even Layer
Spread the cream generously across the area with gloves or a tongue depressor. Avoid rubbing it in too harshly; just smooth it on evenly.
Step #3:Cover with Plastic Wrap
Seal the cream with plastic wrap to trap heat and aid absorption. This “occlusion” method boosts the numbing strength so you feel almost no pain during the process.
Step #4: Wait for 30-60 Minutes
Let the cream absorb fully before your session. Numbing creams don’t work instantly; you’ll typically need to wait between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the formula.
Step #5: Remove the Excess Before the Session
Before starting the tattoo, wipe away any leftover cream. This step is crucial since residue can interfere with stencils, ink flow, and precision. The skin should be clean, dry, and ready for the tattoo artist.
Tips to Reduce Pain When Getting a Tattoo
Just because the process is supposed to hurt doesn’t mean you have to endure it. If your pain threshold is low or you're planning on getting a large design, pair numbing cream with other proven strategies to manage the pain.
Proper Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water the day before and on the day of your appointment for more elastic skin.
Take Short Breaks: Don't overwork your skin, even after using a numbing cream. Ask for short breaks when getting a large tattoo to help your body recover and prevent pain buildup.
Relaxation Exercises: Practice deep breathing and relaxation exercises to distract your brain from pain. You can also repeat lines from your favorite TV show or song lyrics.
Take Painkillers: If the pain is overwhelming, take ibuprofen after the session. Don't get NSAIDs or aspirin-based painkillers since they can thin the blood and increase bleeding during the process.
Go Section-by-Section: If your tattoo size is large, ask your tattoo artist to work on one section at a time. Apply the numbing cream to the most painful areas first. This makes the process more effective and reduces the risk of toxicity.
Numbing Cream for Tattoos: Is it Worth it?
Since everyone has a different pain tolerance, the effect of numbing cream is not the same for everyone. However, in most cases, it provides noticeable relief. That means the real question isn’t “Does numbing cream work for tattoos?” but instead “When should you use it?”
For small tattoos, you may not need it at all. But for larger, more detailed designs, or for sensitive areas like the ribs, neck, or inner arm, it can make a huge difference in how you handle the session.
At Aureo Roma, we understand that every client’s comfort matters. Our team of skilled artists ensures each session is safe, hygienic, and tailored to your needs.
Whether you choose to use numbing cream or not, we’ll guide you through the process so you can focus on what really matters: getting the tattoo you’ve always wanted.
Book your appointment today!
FAQs
Where is the least painful place to get a tattoo?
The least painful tattoo spots are areas with more muscle and fat, such as the upper arm, thigh, or calf. In contrast, bony areas like ribs, elbows, and necks are more sensitive and painful.
How long does numbing cream work for tattoos?
Most tattoo numbing creams provide relief for up to three hours, depending on the formula and how they are applied. For best results, spread a thick, even layer on clean skin and cover it with plastic wrap for at least 45 minutes to enhance absorption.
Does numbing cream work for tattoo removal?
Numbing creams work well for tattoo removal by reducing the burning sensation during laser sessions. However, the effect varies from person to person, depending on the pain threshold, product type, and application technique.
