Numbing Creams and Tattoos: A Pain-Free Dream or Potential Pitfall?

Let’s face it—getting tattooed hurts! For many of us, that’s just part of the experience, but with the rise in popularity of numbing creams, the conversation around pain management has shifted. Are these creams a ticket to a pain-free experience, or are they opening a whole other can of worms? If you’ve ever thought about using numbing cream before your next tattoo, here’s the scoop to making a more informed decision.

How Do Numbing Creams Work?

In a nutshell, tattoo numbing creams block nerve impulses—essentially taking the edge off the varying levels of spiciness one goes through during a tattoo session. It’s like a party trick that prevents those pesky pain signals from reaching your brain. Sounds like a dream, right? But remember, every party ends; understanding both the pros and cons is key.

The Pros: Why You Might Consider Numbing Cream

  • Less Pain, More Comfort: The most obvious perk is that these creams can dull pain (notice I said “dull,” not “eliminate”). If you’re particularly sensitive or have an upcoming appointment in a notoriously painful spot—like the ribs, neck, or feet—this can make your session more bearable. Just think of it as taking the edge off…for a little while.
  • A Steadier Hand for Artists: Being relaxed and still gives your artist the freedom to focus on those intricate details without needing to navigate sudden movements or pain management. It can certainly have its time and place, as long as it’s properly communicated with your artist. When would be an appropriate time to entertain numbing cream, you may wonder? Well, advanced projects like symmetrical outlines on both feet that ideally would be done in one sitting would be an appropriate scenario in which to have that conversation with your artist.

The Cons: What You Should Be Aware Of

  • Delayed Pain Response: Remember when I said “dull” earlier? While numbing creams can ease discomfort, it’s no secret magic potion. When the cream wears off (and it WILL wear off), the pain will hit harder as your body hasn’t released the natural adrenaline and other pain management chemicals to cope, and in our experience, numbing cream usually has a potency of about an hour. If your piece is going to take a lot longer, then it may not be the best idea because when it wears off it’s like a surprise party for your nerves, and not in a fun way!
  • Design Integrity: Numbing creams can also affect the skin’s texture and behavior under the needle. This can impact your artist’s precision or the ink’s ability to settle properly. Many artists report that numbed skin may compromise the healing process and, in turn, overall appearance of the design. There have been cases of the ink being “pushed out” in patches, as lidocaine likely “fills” the pores, and therefore the ink – particularly color – has a harder time going in.
  • Risk of Lidocaine Toxicity: Improper use of numbing creams, especially those containing lidocaine, can lead to toxicity. This could happen if the cream is not used exactly as directed. Our clients in the medical field have mentioned they only use small amounts of lidocaine at a time to avoid “overdosing,” and caution that only prescription lidocaine cream can be trusted, as creams available on the market may not be safe. All that to say, always do your research,  follow instructions and consult your artist to ensure you’re using it safely.

Final Verdict?

In the end, it’s all about communication. Have a candid conversation with your tattoo artist about your concerns and whether they’re okay with you using numbing cream. Keep in mind that many artists won’t offer free touch ups on tattoos done with numbed skin, as the healing process and ink absorption can vary. At the end of the day, it’s about weighing the pros and cons and deciding what’s right for you, your artist, and specific project!

Author

  • Daniella "Dani" Turano-Benedict, a budding tattoo apprentice at Figure 8 Ink Studios, is a passionate mixed-media artist starting her tattoo journey under the mentorship of shop owner, Tricia. Driven by an insatiable passion for creativity, Daniella's art spans from hand-painted pieces to digital illustrations and magical wreath decor. With a deep-rooted desire to spread love and spark magic through her art, Daniella is transitioning her passion into the world of tattooing. Her portfolio showcases a diverse range of work, often characterized by whimsical designs centered around themes of female empowerment and self-love, and the playful wonder of childhood. Explore Daniella's art on Instagram @daniellaturanoart or her website www.daniellaturano.com

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