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So, you’re thinking about using numbing cream for your next tattoo session? Maybe you’ve heard mixed reviews, or perhaps you’re wondering if it’s too good to be true. Well, here’s the thing: yes, numbing cream absolutely works for tattoos. But like anything in life, there’s a right and wrong way to use it.
If you’re curious about how numbing cream works, why it’s effective, and how to use it properly, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s break it all down so you can decide if it’s the game-changer you’ve been looking for.
What Is Tattoo Numbing Cream?
Tattoo numbing cream is a topical anesthetic designed to reduce the pain of getting tattooed. It’s applied directly to the skin before a session and works by dulling or even temporarily blocking the nerves from sending pain signals to your brain.
The key ingredient in most numbing creams is lidocaine. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that’s been used in medical and dental procedures for decades. You’ve probably encountered it before. Think of that weird tingly feeling when the dentist numbs your mouth or when a medic applies it to a minor cut or burn.
When applied correctly, lidocaine in numbing cream can make a huge difference in your tattoo experience, especially for long sessions or extra sensitive areas. Numbing cream can set you up for a nearly painless tattoo.
How Does Lidocaine Work?
Lidocaine works by temporarily blocking the sodium channels in nerve endings. Science break! Here’s what that means in simple terms:
Your nerves send pain signals to your brain using sodium channels, which are tiny pathways that allow electric signals to pass through. Lidocaine clogs those channels, preventing the nerves from firing off "this hurts!" messages.
As a result, the area feels numb and tingly for a limited time, usually up to a few hours. It's like turning the volume almost all the way down on your nerves. You can barely hear the signals, which means they won't be loud enough to bother you.
How Effective Is Numbing Cream for Tattoos?
The effectiveness of numbing cream depends on a few key factors. Numbing creams come in different strengths, and it's important to use them the right way to boost their potential.
The Strength of the Cream
Not all numbing creams are created equal. Some over-the-counter creams contain 2 to 4% lidocaine, while stronger formulas (often used by professionals) contain 5% lidocaine, which is the highest legal limit in most places.
HUSH tattoo numbing cream is formulated with max lidocaine. You're getting the highest percentage of the numbing ingredient you can get in an over the counter product. There's no reason to settle for less relief.
How You Apply It
Simply slapping some numbing cream on your skin won’t cut it. To get the full effect, you need to apply it correctly. Clean skin absorbs the cream better, so give the area a quick wash with a soft cloth, antibacterial soap, and warm water.
Don’t rub it in like lotion. Pretend you're icing a cake. You want to be generous with the amount you use and leave behind a solid white layer. It doesn't need to be heaped on, but you do want to be able to see the cream without any skin peeking through.
After you've slathered up, cover the area in plastic wrap. This keeps the cream from transferring outside of the area while locking it on to make sure it works. It can take up to 90 minutes for the full effects of the numbing cream to kick in, and once it does, the effects can last for up to three hours.
Are There Any Downsides to Using Numbing Cream?
While numbing cream can be a lifesaver, it wears off eventually. Depending on the cream and your body’s absorption rate, you’ll get anywhere from one to three hours of numbness.
If you’re getting a long tattoo (4+ hours), you’ll likely start feeling the pain once the cream fades. And when that happens, your nerves might feel extra sensitive. Some people report that the pain feels sharper once the numbness is gone, while others transition just fine.
If pain during a tattoo session is a complete no-go for you, do a test run with numbing cream at home. Prepare like you're going to get a tattoo, and poke the area every 30 minutes to see how it feels. You'll have a good idea of how long the effects will last, and if you want to break your tattoo up into multiple sessions, you'll be able to discuss it with your artist.
It's important to remember that the tattooed area will still hurt after your tattoo is finished. The pain will likely go away in a few days, but you'll want to continue using numbing tattoo aftercare products (like the HUSH tattoo aftercare kit) to maintain your comfort.
When Should You Use Numbing Cream?
While some people can sit through long sessions without much discomfort, others find certain areas or prolonged tattooing really painful.
Numbing cream is a great option for:
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Sensitive areas: Ribs, knees, elbows, spine, stomach, inner thighs, and basically anywhere that makes you wince just thinking about it.
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Long sessions: If you’re sitting for multiple hours, it can help make the first part of the session more tolerable.
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Low pain tolerance: There’s no shame in needing a little extra help!
- Your first tattoo: If you’re nervous about pain, numbing cream can ease some of the stress.
If you’re getting a small tattoo in a less painful area (like your forearm or calf), you might not need it. But for more intense sessions, it can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts: Is Tattoo Numbing Cream Worth It?
Tattoo numbing cream is absolutely worth it. Numbing cream won’t take away all sensation, but it will dull the pain significantly, making your tattoo session much more manageable. If pain is the only thing holding you back from getting a tattoo, numbing cream might just be the solution you need.
Getting a tattoo should be a positive experience. If numbing cream helps you sit through the process with more comfort, then why not use it? HUSH is here to take the pain away with tattoo numbing cream and tattoo numbing gel.
Sources:
Lidocaine - StatPearls | NCBI Bookshelf
