I’ve been on the fence about getting my first tattoo for a while now, but honestly, the pain factor has been a big reason I’ve put it off. Maybe you’re in the same boat? If so, you might be wondering about those numbing creams that promise to take the sting out of getting inked. Do they actually work? Let’s dive into it.

Do Numbing Creams Actually Work for Tattoos? (Spoiler: Yes, But There’s More to It)

Let’s cut straight to the chase – yes, tattoo numbing creams do work when used correctly. They contain active ingredients like lidocaine, prilocaine, or benzocaine that temporarily block nerve signals in your skin, making the tattooing process way less painful.

But like anything worth doing, there’s a right way and a wrong way to use them. Let’s break it down so you can decide if numbing cream is right for your next (or first) tattoo session.

How These Magic Potions Actually Work

Numbing creams aren’t actually magic (sorry to disappoint), but the science behind them is pretty cool. They penetrate your skin and essentially tell your nerve endings to take a little vacation for a few hours.

The main players in most numbing creams are:

• Lidocaine: The MVP of numbing ingredients – powerful and generally safe
• Prilocaine: Often teams up with lidocaine for a stronger effect
• Benzocaine: Works quickly but doesn’t penetrate as deeply

For these creams to work their best, you need to apply them about an hour before your tattoo session starts. Most artists will tell you to cover the cream with plastic wrap after application – this isn’t just for fun, it actually helps the cream absorb better into your skin.

Why You Might Want to Use Numbing Cream

There are some solid reasons to consider using numbing cream for your tattoo:

• Less pain = less flinching = better tattoo (your artist will thank you)
• Makes longer tattoo sessions actually bearable instead of torture
• Perfect for those super sensitive areas like ribs, feet, or sternum that are notoriously painful
• Helps with anxiety if you’re nervous about the pain
• Might let you get a larger piece done in one sitting rather than breaking it up

I mean, who wouldn’t want their tattoo experience to be more comfortable? As someone who hates needles, this is definitely appealing to me.

The Not-So-Fun Fine Print

Before you slather numbing cream all over yourself, there are some important things to know:

• Results vary from person to person – some people get amazing relief, others less so
• Numbing creams work best for surface pain, but tattoo needles go deeper than just the epidermis
• Too little cream or removing it too early means less numbing
• Too much cream could lead to skin irritation or other issues
• Some people might experience mild redness or itching afterward

It’s also worth noting that while there are tons of numbing products on the market, not all of them are FDA-approved specifically for tattoo use. Always go with reputable brands and talk to your tattoo artist about what they recommend.

Creams vs. Sprays: What’s the Difference?

If you’re shopping around, you might see both numbing creams and numbing sprays. Here’s the quick comparison:

Numbing Creams:

• Provide deeper, longer-lasting numbing
• Better for extensive tattoo sessions
• Take longer to kick in

Numbing Sprays:

• Offer quick but more superficial relief
• Might cause more skin redness
• Less effective for longer sessions

For most tattoos, especially your first or a larger piece, creams are generally the way to go for the most comfortable experience.

How to Use Numbing Cream Like a Pro

Want to get the most bang for your buck? Follow these steps:

1. Wash the area thoroughly first (clean skin = better absorption)
2. Apply a generous layer of the cream (don’t be stingy)
3. Cover with plastic wrap (creates a nice little greenhouse effect)
4. Wait 60-90 minutes before your appointment (patience is key)
5. Make sure your artist completely removes the cream before starting

Your tattoo artist might have specific preferences about numbing products, so it’s always a good idea to discuss this with them ahead of time. Some even provide numbing products as part of their service.

Bottom Line

Tattoo numbing creams aren’t magic erasers for all pain, but they can make a huge difference in your tattoo experience. When used correctly, they can transform what might be an uncomfortable or even unbearable session into something totally manageable.

For folks who are nervous about their first tattoo, getting work done on sensitive areas, or sitting for a longer piece, numbing creams can be a game-changer. And contrary to what some old-school tattoo enthusiasts might say, using numbing cream doesn’t affect the quality of your tattoo if applied and removed properly.

Remember though – everyone’s pain tolerance is different, and everyone’s body reacts differently to both tattooing and numbing products. What works amazingly for your friend might work just okay for you.

My take? If you’re on the fence about getting inked because of pain concerns, numbing cream might be just what you need to take the plunge. After all, the temporary pain of getting a tattoo shouldn’t stop you from getting artwork you’ll enjoy for a lifetime.