Guide to tattoo numbing cream: Benefits, types, and application

As a tattoo artist, one of the most significant pain points you may encounter is managing client discomfort during the tattooing process. While some clients have a high pain threshold, others may find the experience overwhelming, leading to interruptions and a less-than-ideal tattooing environment. This is where tattoo numbing cream becomes an invaluable tool in your arsenal.

What is a tattoo numbing cream?

Tattoo numbing cream is a topical anaesthetic applied to the skin before getting a tattoo to reduce or eliminate pain during the procedure. It works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals in the area where it is applied, making the skin numb.

These creams often contain ingredients like lidocaine or benzocaine and are used to make the tattooing experience more comfortable, especially for those who are sensitive to pain.

Types of tattoo numbing creams

• Lidocaine-based creams: These are the most common and work by blocking nerve signals in the body, providing effective pain relief for up to a few hours.
• Tetracaine-based creams: These are often used for more intense numbing and can be combined with other agents for longer-lasting effects.
• Combination creams: Some products combine multiple active ingredients, such as lidocaine and prilocaine, to offer comprehensive pain relief and a longer duration of numbness.
• Natural numbing creams: These are formulated with herbal ingredients like menthol and arnica, which may be preferred by clients seeking a more natural approach to pain management.

Benefits of using tattoo numbing creams

Pain reduction

Tattoo-numbing creams significantly reduce the pain associated with getting a tattoo, making the process more comfortable, especially for those with low pain tolerance or in particularly sensitive areas.

Increased comfort during the tattooing process

By numbing the skin, these creams help ensure that the person getting the tattoo can relax more during the session, leading to a more positive overall experience.

Ability to sit through longer tattoo sessions

With reduced pain, clients are often able to sit for longer periods, allowing the artist to work on larger or more detailed designs in a single session.

Less anxiety for first-time tattoo clients

Knowing that the pain will be minimized can reduce anxiety for individuals getting their first tattoo, making them more likely to follow through with the process.

A better outcome for detailed tattoos

When clients are more comfortable, they are less likely to move or flinch during the procedure, leading to more precise work and a better final result for intricate designs.

Extended tattoo sessions

For larger or more detailed tattoos, numbing cream can enable longer sessions, allowing you to complete complex designs in fewer sittings.

How to apply tattoo numbing creams

Clean the skin area

Before applying the tattoo numbing cream, it is crucial to clean the area where the tattoo will be placed. This step removes any dirt, oils, or residues that could interfere with the cream's effectiveness or cause skin irritation.

Use mild soap and water or alcohol wipes to cleanse the area thoroughly. After cleaning, allow the skin to dry fully before moving on to the next step.

Apply a generous layer of cream

Once the skin is clean and dry, apply a thick layer of the tattoo numbing cream to the area. It's important not to rub the cream into the skin, as it needs to stay on the surface to work effectively. Ensure that the entire area where the tattoo will be applied is well-covered with the cream.

A thick application will ensure that the active ingredients penetrate the skin properly, providing the desired numbing effect.

Cover with plastic wrap.

After applying the numbing cream, cover the treated area with plastic wrap. This step helps trap heat against the skin, which activates the numbing agents and enhances their penetration.

The plastic wrap also prevents the cream from drying out and helps it stay in place. Leave the plastic wrap on for the recommended amount of time, usually between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the product's instructions.

Remove the wrap and excess cream.

Once the recommended time has passed, carefully remove the plastic wrap. Then, use a paper towel or clean cloth to gently wipe away any excess cream from the skin. It's important to ensure that the area is completely clean and dry before starting the tattoo process. This step ensures that the skin is prepared for tattooing without any residue that could affect the tattoo or the artist's equipment.

Risk of using tattoo numbing creams

Skin irritation or allergic reactions: Some clients may experience redness, itching, or swelling due to sensitivity or allergies to the active ingredients.

• Inconsistent numbing effect: The numbing effect may not be uniform across the treated area, leading to uneven pain relief.
• Potential for overuse or misapplication: Using too much cream or leaving it on for too long can cause adverse effects, such as skin damage or systemic absorption of the anaesthetic.
• Interactions with other medications: Numbing creams can interact with other topical products or medications, potentially leading to unwanted side effects.
• Reduced sensation during the procedure: Excessive numbness might hinder communication between you and the tattoo artist regarding pain levels, possibly affecting the quality of the tattoo.

Choosing the right tattoo numbing creams

Choosing the right tattoo numbing cream involves considering several factors. First, take into account your skin type, especially if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin, to ensure the product is safe for you.

Look for creams with proven active ingredients like lidocaine, and check the concentration to match the level of pain relief you need. It's also important to consider how long the numbing effect lasts, particularly if your tattoo session will be lengthy.

Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from other tattoo artists or those who have used numbing creams for tattoos can provide valuable insights. Finally, purchase the cream from a trusted source to avoid counterfeit or substandard products.

Our best tattoo-numbing creams

Biotat Numbing Blush Tattoo Glide

This is a professional-grade tattoo glide that not only numbs the area but also significantly reduces swelling and redness. Enhanced with natural pink colouring, it is smooth and doesn't obstruct needles or remove stencils. It's ideal for black, grey, and lighter colours, allowing for enhanced precision during the tattoo process.

Key benefits:

• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Acts as a natural anaesthetic
• Made in the UK, using all-natural and cruelty-free ingredients
• Free of artificial colourants
• Professional use only during the tattoo process
• Available in a 500g container

iNumb Soothing Aid Cream

This advanced formula is designed to numb the skin's surface for maximum comfort during cosmetic procedures. It's easy to apply and works quickly, ensuring a relaxed experience for tattooing, body piercing, micro-blading, laser hair removal, waxing, and permanent cosmetics.

Key features:

• Provides pain relief for over 3 hours, with the option to reapply for longer sessions
• Suitable for various cosmetic procedures
• Comes in a 10g tube, covering approximately a 20cm² area
• Ideal for pre-tattoo application to ensure a pain-free experience

Final thoughts

As a tattoo artist, your goal is to provide clients with not only beautiful artwork but also a positive and comfortable experience. Tattoo numbing creams, along with numbing spray, can be valuable tools in your arsenal, helping to reduce pain, minimize anxiety, and allow clients to sit through longer sessions with ease.

By choosing products that offer a maximum numbing effect, you ensure that your clients can focus on the excitement of their new tattoo rather than the discomfort. Understanding the benefits, types, and proper application of these local anaesthetics ensures that you can offer informed advice and enhance your clients' tattoo journey.

By incorporating the right numbing creams and sprays into your practice, you can improve client satisfaction and make the tattooing process smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.

To provide the best experience for your clients, consider stocking up on high-quality tattoo numbing products from our website. Explore our selection today and find the perfect solutions to support your artistry and client comfort.