Numbing Cream For Tattoos: Is It Worth It?

Using numbing cream before getting a tattoo might seem like a great way to ease the pain, but it can cause more problems than it solves, which is why some artists don't allow it. Here's why:

Skin Texture Changes

Numbing cream can make the skin swell or become uneven and alter the skin's ability to absorb ink, making it harder for the tattoo artist to work with precision. Your tattoo may take slightly longer, and the visual quality may be affected.

Short Duration

Numbing creams wear off quickly, sometimes before the tattoo session ends. This can lead to an abrupt return of pain, which might be more challenging to manage once you've started feeling it.

Possible Allergic Reactions

Not all numbing creams are created equal. Many different active ingredients with differing strengths are used, and government regulation plays a large part in what is available. Always consult your artist BEFORE the day of your tattoo booking so they can talk you through their preferred process if they allow the use of numbing cream.

Ask your artist if they recommend a particular brand, and check that the percentage of active ingredients is listed on the packaging. If it doesn't have this information, it's likely been made in bulk, resulting in irregular amounts of active ingredients in each tube and increasing the risk of an adverse reaction. 

Communication barrier

Pain is an essential indicator for both you and the artist. It lets us know what is going on in our bodies, which is why, with longer sessions, it may start to hurt more as your body reaches its tolerance level. 

Natural Pain Management

Your body has its little pharmacy to help you handle pain. It releases natural chemicals called endorphins, like tiny superheroes, blocking pain signals and making you feel better. Numbing cream gets in the way of that process. Areas, where you've applied more cream and skin that is softer/less dense, will stay numb for slightly longer, meaning your body will be in a constant stop-start state, releasing endorphins.

If you've ever taken a break while getting a tattoo, you'll know it always hurts a little bit more when you get back into it. The pain stopped, so your body turned off the release of endorphins, which can take a few minutes to turn back on.

Fun Fact: If you're a ginger like me, your numbing cream will likely not last as long. Redheads often require more local topical anesthetics, but the good news is that because we handle pain differently, we actually manage the pain associated with tattooing more easily.

While numbing cream seems like a quick fix, it can hinder the tattoo process by affecting skin texture, ink absorption, and communication between you and your artist. For the best tattoo experience, embracing the process and working with your artist to manage pain through breaks and proper technique is usually better.

Still sure you need it? Chat with your tattoo artist or studio about the best option for you, and always do a patch test before using it for the first time. For more information on preparing for and managing the tattooing experience, check out our other articles. And as always, happy inking <3