Getting a tattoo can be an exhilarating experience as you make body art a meaningful part of your self-expression.
But sitting for hours while a vibrating ink-filled needle repeatedly pierces your skin can also be quite painful and uncomfortable.
This is why more and more people are seeking out the top tattoo numbing creams to make their sessions a more painless experience.
The problem many run into is finding a tattoo numbing cream that actually works well and lasts long enough to get through a full tattooing session.
With so many over-the-counter products making claims, it’s hard to know which tattoo numbing creams deliver adequate pain relief without side effects.
Poor performing numbing creams lead to discomfort ruining the tattooing experience. See this tattoo pain chart
The solution is using one of the highly rated, clinically tested topical anesthetic brands that contain premium lidocaine formulas to comfortably numb skin for hours.
This allows you to relax during the intricate artistry work so you can fully enjoy the creative process.
In this guide, we’ve researched and reviewed the top 18 tattoo numbing creams proven to provide a more painless tattoo session experience even during large, detailed multi-hour ink projects.
You do want to find out, right?
Read on for comparisons and recommendations you can trust.
Best Tattoo Numbing Creams for a Painless Tattoo Session
Let’s get to it. Here are the in-depth reviews of the 18 top-performing tattoo numbing creams along with a detailed buyer’s guide.
Quick Overview
| Category | Winner | Price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Numb Master Topical Anesthetic Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best for Sensitive Skin | Ebanel Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best on Amazon | Base Laboratories Lidocaine Numbing Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Fast-Acting | Zensa Numbing Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best for Face Tattoos | Lidocane Plus Maximum Strength Pain Relieving Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Affordable | Welmate Lidocaine Numbing Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Lower Concentration | Treatonic Tattoo numbing cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Vegan | Bravado Labs Topical Anesthetic Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Recommended | Inked Inspired Tattoo Numbing Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
1. Ebanel Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Cream
Ebanel Numb520 contains a powerful 5% lidocaine formula for achieving ample pain relief during tattoo sessions. This over-the-counter maximum strength cream takes effect quickly, absorbing into skin within 20-25 minutes.
It provides 1-2 hours of deep localized numbing for covering small to medium tattoos comfortably. Ebanel Numb520 features a thicker, viscous texture that adheres extremely well during tattoo application without dripping or running into the artist’s work area.
It allows the needle to glide smoothly across the skin without friction or dragging. The non-oily cream also avoids diluting or spreading tattoo inks. For fast-acting numbing power, Ebanel Numb520 is a top choice.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for maximum OTC strength
– Rapid onset in 20-25 minutes
– Lasts 1-2 hours
– Viscous, non-drip cream texture
– Permits frictionless needle gliding
Pros:
– Provides heavy-duty numbing fast
– Sufficient duration for smaller tattoos
– Thick texture prevents leaks or mess
– Enables smooth tattoo application
– Won’t affect tattoo inks or quality
Cons:
– Requires reapplication for longer sessions
– Not suitable for large intricate tattoos
– Can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals
Why It Made the List:
With its fast-acting OTC maximum strength anesthesia, non-drip texture, and artist-friendly properties, Ebanel Numb520 offers one of the top choices for basic tattoo numbing needs.
2. Uber Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream
Uber Numb 5% Lidocaine Cream provides powerful, long-lasting pain relief with a lightweight cream formula. This fast-acting anesthetic achieves desensitization in 30 minutes and lasts 2-3 hours for covering medium to large tattoo sessions.
The non-oily texture glides smoothly onto skin without interfering with the artist’s application and gloves. Uber Numb allows effortless ink flow thanks to its friction-reducing properties. It fully absorbs rather than sitting sticky atop the skin.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for strong numbing
– Takes effect in 30 minutes
– Lasts 2-3 hours
– Lightweight non-oily cream
– Permits frictionless application
Pros:
– Fast onset of numbing
– Ample duration for larger tattoos
– Allows detailed line work
– Won’t affect artist’s gloves or tools
– Non-sticky absorption into skin
Cons:
– Requires reapplication for very long sessions
– Can occasionally irritate sensitive skin
– Not sufficient alone for extremely painful areas
Why It Made the List:
With its quick yet long-lasting numbing power, mess-free absorption, and frictionless application, Uber Numb is one of the top choices for larger, detailed tattoo work.
3. Numb Master Topical Anesthetic Cream
Numb Master Lidocaine 5% Cream provides maximum strength numbing relief with its medical-grade pain blocking formula. This popular fast-acting anesthetic cream takes effect in 20-30 minutes and provides long lasting desensitization for 2-5 hours.
The viscous, non-oily cream texture allows smooth application onto skin. Its thickness helps the Numb Master formula absorb deep into layers of skin when wrapped in plastic to maximize effects before wiping clean right before tattooing.
Key Features:
– Lidocaine USP 5% for maximum numbness
– Onset in 20-30 minutes
– Lasting relief for 2-5 hours
– Viscous non-oily cream
– Deep skin absorption
Pros:
– Very fast onset of numbness
– Long duration for large/detailed tattoos
– Permits precision line work
– Highest level OTC anesthetic
– Non-messy artist-friendly application
Cons:
– Can cause minor skin irritation
– Not for highly sensitive thin skin
– Requires reapplication for sessions over 5 hours
Why It Made the List:
With its rapid, long-lasting numbing power, Numb Master is a premier choice for tattoo artists and clients doing extensive, detailed large scale work over many hours.
4. Numb Maximum Strength Pain Reliever
Numb Maximum Strength contains an extra-strength 5% lidocaine formula for achieving ample pain relief during tattoo sessions.
This over-the-counter maximum strength cream provides long lasting numbness, up to 2-3 hours from each application.
The non-oily, non-greasy cream formula allows smooth application and absorption into the skin. It glides on easily so artists can work precisely on the desensitized skin.
Numb Maximum Strength absorbs fully without affecting the quality and application of the tattoo inks.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for maximum OTC numbness
– Lasts 2-3 hours per use
– Smooth gliding non-oily cream
– Allows precise tattoo application
– Won’t interfere with inks
Pros:
– Provides very strong pain relief
– Sufficient duration for medium tattoos
– Enables detailed line work
– Easy to apply and absorb
– Won’t affect artist’s process
Cons:
– Requires reapplication for longer sessions
– May cause skin irritation
– Not suitable for large intricate tattoos
Why It Made the List:
With its maximum strength OTC lidocaine optimized for tattoo artists and clients, Numb Maximum Strength offers excellent, versatile anesthesia for medium-sized, detailed work.
Also Read: 10 Best Black Tattoo Inks for Sensitive Skin
5. Base Laboratories Lidocaine Numbing Cream
Base Labs Lidocaine Cream 5% provides premium strength pain relief in an easily absorbed anesthetic cream. This over-the-counter formula contains clinical grade lidocaine for ample numbing power during tattoo sessions.
The fast-absorbing gel-cream texture allows for quick penetration into skin within 20-30 minutes of application.
Each use provides 1-3 hours of effective localized numbness for detailed work. Base Labs Lidocaine Cream has an artist-friendly formula that applies smoothly without compromising gloves or equipment.
Key Features:
– Lidocaine 5% for strong topical anesthesia
– Premium clinical grade OTC formula
– Absorbs within 20-30 minutes
– Lasts 1-3 hours per use
– Smooth fast-absorbing gel-cream
Pros:
– Delivers ample pain relief for tattoos
– Allows precise line work and shading
– Quick-penetrating gel cream texture
– Won’t affect artist’s gloves or tools
– Easy to evenly apply on skin
Cons:
– May require reapplication for extra long sessions
– Not sufficient for highly painful areas
– Can occasionally cause minor irritation
Why It Made the List:
With its premium clinical grade OTC lidocaine formula optimized for uninhibited tattooing, Base Labs Numbing Cream is a top choice for detailed medium-length sessions.
6. Lidocane Plus Maximum Strength Pain Reliever
Lidocane Plus contains the maximum strength 5% lidocaine allowable in over-the-counter topical anesthetics. This extra powerful cream provides fast relief, taking effect within 20-30 minutes and lasting 1-2 hours.
The smooth cream formula spreads easily onto skin for uncompromised tattoo application and precision.
Lidocaine Plus allows even the most minuscule intricate tattoo line work thanks to its deep numbing effects. It fully absorbs into skin without residue messing artist gloves or tools.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for maximum OTC strength
– Works in 20-30 minutes
– Lasts 1-2 hours
– Allows precise detailed tattoos
– Fully absorbs into skin
Pros:
– Provides maximum available OTC numbness
– Relatively fast onset
– Suitable for small-medium tattoos
– Enables intricate artistic work
– Non-messy cream texture
Cons:
– Shorter duration than prescription anesthetics
– Requires frequent reapplication
– Not suitable for highly painful thin skin areas
Why It Made the List:
With its maximum over-the-counter lidocaine concentration and smooth absorption, Lidocaine Plus offers trusted strong numbing capabilities for basic small and medium tattoo work.
7. Zensa Numbing Cream
Zensa Numbing Cream contains a powerful 6% lidocaine formula for providing maximum strength pain relief for tattooing.
This premium anesthetic cream uses the highest level of lidocaine available over-the-counter for lasting effects.
The ultra fast-acting formula penetrates in just 15 minutes, providing 3-5 hours of deep anesthesia even on painful spots. The thick yet smooth texture adheres extremely well during application without compromising gloves or equipment.
Zensa allows effortless ink flow and detailed work thanks to its medical-grade numbness. It’s ideal for large scale, multi-hour tattoo sessions.
Key Features:
– Maximum 6% lidocaine for strongest OTC numbness
– Ultra fast 15 minute onset
– Lasts 3-5 hours
– Thick yet smooth texture
– Allows detailed frictionless tattooing
Pros:
– Strongest over-the-counter lidocaine available
– Rapid absorption and numbness
– Long duration for big, complex tattoos
– Enables intricate artistry
– Non-sticky artist-friendly formula
Cons:
– Higher cost for maximum OTC strength
– Can irritate sensitive skin
– Not for highly painful thin facial skin
Why It Made the List:
With its best-in-class OTC lidocaine concentration, lightning fast action, and long duration, Zensa provides premier numbness for uninhibited large scale, multi-hour tattooing.
8. Numb Skin Maximum Strength Pain Reliever
Numb Skin Maximum Strength contains a rapid fast-acting 5% lidocaine topical anesthetic formula.
This maximum strength cream achieves complete desensitization within 15-20 minutes that lasts 1-3 hours per application.
The silky smooth cream texture allows effortless artist application and precision ink work. It absorbs fully into skin without transferring mess onto gloves or tools. Numb Skin provides ample numbness for detailed line and shading work when applied correctly.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for maximum OTC strength
– Takes effect in 15-20 minutes
– Lasts 1-3 hours per use
– Silky cream enables smooth application
– Fully absorbs into skin
Pros:
– Provides heavy-duty numbing fast
– Allows highly detailed tattoo artistry
– Won’t interfere with artist’s process
– Quick onset of anesthesia
– Non-sticky skin absorption
Cons:
– Requires reapplication for sessions over 3 hours
– Can cause minor reactions in sensitive skin
– Not suitable for highly painful thin skin
Why It Made the List:
With its rapid maximum strength OTC lidocaine, silky formula, and absorption properties, Numb Skin offers premier short-term anesthesia for detailed precision tattoo artwork.
9. Bravado Labs Topical Anesthetic Cream
Bravado Labs Tattoo Numbing Cream provides quality pain relief during tattoo sessions with its 4% lidocaine formula.
This topical anesthetic takes effect quickly in 25-35 minutes and provides approximately 2 hours of numbness from each use.
The smooth cream formula spreads evenly onto skin without interfering with the tattoo artist’s work. It fully absorbs without leaving any oily residue or mess on the skin’s surface. The 4% lidocaine offers ample relief for smaller, simpler tattoos.
Key Features:
– 4% lidocaine for decent numbing
– Takes effect in 25-35 minutes
– Lasts around 2 hours per use
– Easy to apply cream texture
– Absorbs fully into skin
Pros:
– Relatively fast onset
– Sufficient duration for smaller tattoos
– Allows precise artistic work
– Won’t compromise artist’s process
– Budget-friendly price point
Cons:
– Lower anesthetic concentration
– Insufficient for large detailed tattoos
– Requires frequent reapplication
– May cause minor skin irritation
Why It Made the List:
With its moderate strength lidocaine formula and easy artist-friendly application, Bravado Labs offers a quality budget-friendly option for basic small tattoo numbing needs.
Also Read: How to Know If You Can Handle Tattoo Pain
10. Inked Inspired Tattoo Numbing Cream
Inked Inspired Tattoo Numbing Cream provides easy-to-use, rapid numbing relief specially designed for tattoo artists. This 5% lidocaine cream takes effect relatively quickly, absorbing in 30-45 minutes, for 1-3 hours of effective numbness.
The lightweight silky texture allows smooth application and precision tattooing without affecting inks or equipment.
It’s praised for permitting detailed line work and shading thanks to consistent deep numbness. The cream washes off cleanly from the skin.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for ample numbing
– Takes effect in 30-45 minutes
– Provides 1-3 hours relief
– Lightweight silky cream texture
– Won’t affect artist’s process
Pros:
– Sufficient pain relief for tattooing
– Allows intricate artistic details
– Easy absorption into skin
– Non-sticky artist-friendly formula
– Enables multi-hour sessions
Cons:
– May require reapplication after 3 hours
– Can irritate sensitive skin
– Not as strong as prescription anesthetics
Why It Made the List:
Specifically designed for tattoo artists, Inked Inspired offers easy-to-use OTC lidocaine numbness optimized for detailed precision tattooing and client comfort.
11. SAMNYTE Tattoo Numbing Cream
SAMNYTE Tattoo Numbing Cream provides powerful temporary relief with its clinical grade 5% lidocaine formula.
This maximum strength topical anesthetic absorbs quickly in 20-30 minutes, lasting 1-2 hours.
The lightweight cream texture allows effortless artist application for precision ink work. It penetrates skin fully without compromising gloves or equipment.
SAMNYTE enables intricate designs thanks to reliable, deep numbness allowing smooth needle passes.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for strong anesthesia
– Takes effect in 20-30 minutes
– Provides 1-2 hours relief
– Lightweight cream texture
– Allows detailed precision tattooing
Pros:
– Fast-acting numbness
– Enables intricate artistic details
– Glides on easily for artist
– Fully absorbs into skin
– Non-sticky, non-messy formula
Cons:
– Requires reapplication for longer sessions
– May cause minor skin irritation
– Not suitable for highly sensitive thin skin
Why It Made the List:
With its fast anesthesia onset, artistic application, and skin absorption, SAMNYTE offers a top performing OTC lidocaine tattoo numbing cream for shorter, detailed work.
12. Dr. Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream
Dr. Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream provides premium maximum strength numbing with 5% lidocaine plus vitamin E for skin care.
This fast-acting formula takes effect in 20-30 minutes, providing 2-3 hours of relief per application.
The thick cream texture adheres extremely well during tattooing for frictionless work and smooth ink flow.
It fully absorbs into skin without dripping or running. Dr. Numb allows artists to comfortably ink intricate designs thanks to its medical-grade deep anesthesia.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for maximum OTC strength
– Added antioxidant vitamin E
– Takes effect in 20-30 minutes
– Lasts 2-3 hours per use
– Thick adherent cream texture
Pros:
– Delivers very strong topical numbness
– Allows larger, detailed tattoo artistry
– Non-messy artist-friendly formula
– Nourishing vitamin E for skin
– No residue after absorbing fully
Cons:
– Can irritate highly sensitive skin types
– Not sufficient for extra large sessions
– Requires reapplication after 2-3 hours
Why It Made the List:
With its premium strength OTC lidocaine, smooth frictionless application, and skin care additives, Dr. Numb offers one of the top performing numbing creams for multi-hour tattooing.
13. Ink Scribd Tattoo Numbing Cream
Ink Scribd Numbing Cream provides reliable strong pain relief specially designed for tattoo artists. This 5% lidocaine formula takes effect quickly in 20 minutes and provides 1-3 hours of numbness per application.
The lightweight non-oily texture allows precision ink application without compromising gloves or equipment.
Ink Scribd enables even the most intricate designs thanks to its deep absorption and numbing allowing smooth needle passes.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for solid numbing
– Takes effect in 20 minutes
– Provides 1-3 hours relief
– Lightweight non-oily texture
– Won’t affect artist’s process
Pros:
– Sufficient anesthesia for tattooing
– Permits highly detailed line work
– Quick onset of numbness
– Easy absorption into skin
– Enables multi-hour sessions
Cons:
– May require reapplication after 3 hours
– Can potentially irritate sensitive skin
– Not as strong as prescription creams
Why It Made the List:
Designed for tattoo artists, Ink Scribd offers easy-to-use OTC lidocaine optimized for detailed precision tattooing and client comfort over hours.
14. JIANZHAN Painless Tattoo Numbing Cream
JIANZHAN Painless Tattoo Numbing Cream is one of the most popular numbing creams on the market, and for good reason.
JIANZHAN Painless Tattoo Numbing Cream is a topical anesthetic that works by temporarily blocking the nerve endings in the skin.
This helps to reduce pain and discomfort during tattooing. The cream is made with a blend of natural ingredients, including mint, aloe vera, and vitamin E. It is also fragrance-free and non-greasy.
Pros:
- Effective at numbing pain
- Long-lasting effects
- Made with natural ingredients
- Fragrance-free and non-greasy
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- May cause some skin irritation in sensitive individuals
Why It Made the List:
JIANZHAN Painless Tattoo Numbing Cream is one of the best numbing creams on the market because it is effective, long-lasting, and made with natural ingredients. It is also easy to apply and fragrance-free and non-greasy.
15. Deeveeant Lidocaine Numbing Cream
Deeveeant Numbing Cream provides premium strength pain relief with 5% lidocaine in a velvety smooth formula.
This fast-acting topical anesthetic takes effect in 20 minutes, providing 1-3 hours of numbness from each application.
The velvety texture allows effortless artist maneuverability and precision tattooing. It fully absorbs into skin without transferring onto gloves or tools.
Deeveeant allows comfortable lengthy sessions thanks to its deep absorption properties and reliable numbness for detailed designs.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for strong numbing
– Takes effect in 20 minutes
– Lasts 1-3 hours per use
– Velvety texture for smooth application
– Fully absorbs into skin
Pros:
– Provides sufficient anesthesia for tattooing
– Allows intricate artistic details
– Quick onset of numbness
– Won’t interfere with artist’s work
– Enables multi-hour sessions
Cons:
– May require reapplication after 3 hours
– Can mildly irritate sensitive skin
– Not as strong as prescription anesthetics
Why It Made the List:
With its fast-acting and velvety smooth gliding lidocaine formula, Deeveeant offers reliable OTC strength tattoo numbing for detailed work over extended hours comfortably.
16. Curist Lidocaine Numbing Relief Cream
Curist Lidocaine 5% Cream provides premium strength numbing in a silky smooth rapidly absorbing cream.
This professional grade topical anesthetic takes effect in 15-20 minutes for 1-2 hours of relief from each application.
The velvety texture allows effortless artist maneuverability and precision tattooing without interfering with equipment.
Curist fully absorbs to avoid any messy residue on the skin’s surface. It produces ample numbing to allow detailed multi-hour work.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for premium strength
– Takes effect in 15-20 minutes
– Lasts 1-2 hours per use
– Velvety silky cream texture
– Absorbs fully into skin
Pros:
– Provides robust anesthesia fast
– Allows precise artistic details
– Permits comfortable multi-hour sessions
– Easy frictionless application
– Won’t mess up artist’s gloves/tools
Cons:
– Requires reapplication after 1-2 hours
– Can cause minor irritation on sensitive skin
– Not as strong as prescription anesthetics
Why It Made the List:
With its rapid premium grade lidocaine absorption and velvety smoothness, Curist allows detailed multi-hour tattoo sessions without compromising the artist’s process or equipment.
17. Treatonic Numbing Cream – 6 Hours Maximum Strength Painless Tattoo Numbing Cream
Treatonic Numbing Cream is a topical anesthetic cream that is designed to numb the skin for temporary relief of pain and discomfort.
It is commonly used by tattoo artists to numb the skin before tattooing, but it can also be used for other procedures such as piercings, waxing, and laser hair removal.
The active ingredient in Treatonic Numbing Cream is lidocaine, a local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve impulses in the skin.
This prevents the nerves from sending pain signals to the brain, resulting in numbness.
Treatonic Numbing Cream is a maximum strength cream that contains 5% lidocaine. This is a higher concentration of lidocaine than is found in most other numbing creams, which typically contain 2-3% lidocaine.
The higher concentration of lidocaine in Treatonic Numbing Cream makes it more effective at numbing the skin.
Pros:
- Effective at numbing the skin
- Long-lasting effects (up to 6 hours)
- Maximum strength formula
- Easy to apply
- Non-greasy
- Odorless
Cons:
- Can cause skin irritation in some people
- May not be effective for everyone
- Not suitable for use on open wounds or irritated skin
Why It Made the List:
Treatonic Numbing Cream is included in the list of the best tattoo numbing creams because it is a powerful and effective product that is easy to use and lasts for a long time. It is also a good value for the price.
18. Welmate Lidocaine Numbing Cream
Welmate Lidocaine Cream provides premium strength numbness with 5% lidocaine in a velvety smooth rapidly absorbing cream. This topical anesthetic takes effect in 20 minutes, providing 1-3 hours of relief.
The velvety texture allows easy artist maneuverability and precision tattooing without interfering with the process.
Welmate fully absorbs to avoid any oily residue messing gloves or equipment. It produces ample numbness for detailed line work and shading.
Key Features:
– 5% lidocaine for premium strength
– Takes effect in 20 minutes
– Lasts 1-3 hours per use
– Velvety smooth cream texture
– Fully absorbs into skin
Pros:
– Provides strong anesthesia fast
– Allows highly detailed tattoo artistry
– Easy frictionless application
– Won’t interfere with artist’s work
– No messy residue
Cons:
– Requires reapplication after 1-3 hours
– Can cause minor irritation on sensitive skin
– Not as strong as prescription anesthetics
Why It Made the List:
With its rapid premium grade lidocaine absorption and velvety application texture, Welmate allows detailed multi-hour tattooing without compromising the artist’s process.
How Does A Tattoo Numbing Cream Work?
Tattoo numbing cream is a topical anesthetic that works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that transmit pain from the skin to the brain.This can significantly reduce pain during tattooing and make the experience more comfortable.
Types of Numbing Creams
There are three main types of tattoo numbing creams, based on their active ingredients:
1. Nerve deadners: These creams contain lidocaine or prilocaine, which are local anesthetics that block sodium channels in nerve cells. This prevents the nerve cells from sending pain signals to the brain.
2. Nerve blockers: These creams contain tetracaine or benzocaine, which are also local anesthetics that work by binding to sodium channels in nerve cells. This prevents the nerve cells from opening and sending pain signals.
3. Vasoconstrictors: These creams contain epinephrine, which is a substance that constricts blood vessels. This reduces blood flow to the area being tattooed, which can help to reduce pain and swelling.
Mechanism of Action
All three types of tattoo numbing creams work by interfering with the transmission of nerve signals. When the needle punctures the skin during tattooing, it damages nerve cells.
These damaged nerve cells release chemicals called neurotransmitters, which travel through the nerves to the brain. Neurotransmitters are responsible for sending pain signals.
The active ingredients in tattoo numbing creams block the neurotransmitters from reaching the brain, thereby preventing the transmission of pain signals. This results in a reduction or elimination of pain during tattooing.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of tattoo numbing creams can vary depending on the type of cream, the individual’s skin sensitivity, and the location of the tattoo. However, most people find that these creams can significantly reduce or eliminate pain during tattooing.
Duration of Effect
The numbing effects of tattoo numbing creams typically last for several hours.
This is usually enough time to complete most tattooing sessions. However, the numbing effect may wear off sooner if the cream is rubbed off or exposed to water.
Safety
Tattoo numbing creams are generally safe for most people to use. However, there are some potential side effects, such as skin irritation, numbness, and tingling.
It is important to read the label carefully and follow the directions before using any tattoo numbing cream.
On a final note, tattoo numbing creams can be a helpful way to reduce pain during tattooing and make the experience more comfortable.
However, it is important to choose a reputable brand of cream and to use it correctly. If you have any concerns about using tattoo numbing cream, talk to your tattoo artist.
Also Read: How to Prepare for a Long Tattoo Session
Tattoo Numbing Cream Buyer’s Guide
With many options on the market, choosing the right numbing cream takes some consideration. Here is a detailed buyer’s guide discussing key factors when selecting an appropriate topical anesthetic product for your tattoo:
OTC vs Prescription Formulas
– Over-the-counter creams contain up to 5-6% lidocaine or similar anesthetic agents. They provide decent numbing for most smaller to mid-sized tattoos. OTC products are easily accessible without prescriptions.
– Prescription creams contain higher potency anesthetics like 10% lidocaine agents. They offer stronger numbing but require doctor monitoring and approval.
Cream, Gel or Spray
– Numbing cream formulas offer thick adherence and absorption into skin. They work well for covering larger tattoo areas.
– Gel numbing products allow visibility while applying to target the precise tattoo area. They absorb without leaks or wraps.
– Spray numbing enables no-touch mist coverage. It’s easy to reapply but avoid inhaling vapors.
Lidocaine vs Other Anesthetics
– Lidocaine is the most common anesthetic agent in numbing creams. It provides proven localized numbness in a safe over-the-counter dosage.
– Alternatives like tetracaine or benzocaine work too but may be shorter acting. Evaluate your needs.
Numbness Onset and Duration
– Faster acting creams work in 15-30 minutes while slower ones take 45-60 minutes to take full effect.
– Duration varies by product from 1-3 hours. Stronger creams maintain numbness longer.
Mess-Free Texture
– Numbing gels and sprays minimize mess on artist gloves and work stations.
– Creams absorb fully when applied properly in a moderate layer.
Natural vs Clinical Formulas
– Some natural oil-based creams offer mild numbing from ingredients like menthol or camphor.
– Clinical creams with lidocaine or benzocaine provide much stronger anesthesia than natural options.
Strength
– Over-the-counter creams contain 4-6% lidocaine or similar anesthetic. They offer decent numbing for most small-medium tattoos.
– Prescription creams contain stronger 8-10% formulas for maximum numbness.
Onset and Duration
– Faster acting creams work in 15-30 minutes while slower ones take 30-60 minutes to fully desensitize.
– Duration varies from 1-5 hours depending on product strength. Longer sessions need reapplication.
Texture and Absorption
– Smooth, velvety creams allow effortless artist maneuverability and precision lines.
– Non-oily formulas fully absorb into skin rather than affecting gloves or equipment.
– Gel and spray options provide lighter exact application.
Additives
– Some creams contain soothing natural oils, vitamin E, aloe vera or other skin care additives.
– Avoid potential allergic ingredients if you have sensitivities.
Artist Recommendations
– Ask the tattoo artist which numbing cream brands they recommend and prefer working with.
Conclusion
Finding the most suitable topical anesthetic helps make tattoo sessions as comfortable and peaceful as possible.
Spend time researching and testing products that fit your unique needs. Consult artist recommendations.
While side effects are rare when following guidelines, understand proper usage precautions. Apply creams only as directed in moderate amounts.
With a quality tattoo numbing cream and proper application, you can sit through intricate tattoo work with less pain and discomfort. This allows focusing on the creative process.
Stronger prescription lidocaine formulas provide the highest level of numbness. But excellent over-the-counter options featured here offer adequate anesthesia for most tattoo needs.
Look for fast-acting creams that absorb fully and don’t affect the tattoo process while providing ample numbness for the duration you need. Combining cooling spray touch-ups between passes maximizes relief.
Understand that hand, foot and facial tattoos often require working with thinner skin’s sensitivity rather than relying solely on heavy numbing. Finding alternates like meditation or distractions can complement anesthesia.
While topical lidocaine creams remain the standard for making tattooing more bearable, natural formulations provide gentle relief for those avoiding clinical side effects.
With millions getting inked each year, quality numbing products will continue growing in popularity and improving effectiveness.
But don’t become over reliant on creams for large body suits or sleeves. Allowing some feeling creates ideal responses.
Finding your perfect tattoo numbing solution just takes education on the options and experimenting wisely – from maximum strength heavy-duty creams to lighter gels or sprays. A less painful application lets the artistry shine through.
Summary of Best Tattoo Numbing Creams
Here is a table summary of the best tattoo numbing creams in different categories.
| Category | Winner | Price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Numb Master Topical Anesthetic Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best for Sensitive Skin | Ebanel Numb520 Topical Anesthetic Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best on Amazon | Base Laboratories Lidocaine Numbing Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Fast-Acting | Zensa Numbing Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best for Face Tattoos | Lidocane Plus Maximum Strength Pain Relieving Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Affordable | Welmate Lidocaine Numbing Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Lower Concentration | Treatonic Tattoo numbing cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Vegan | Bravado Labs Topical Anesthetic Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
| Best Recommended | Inked Inspired Tattoo Numbing Cream | Check Price on Amazon Now |
FAQs on Best Tattoo Numbing Creams
What is a tattoo numbing cream?
A tattoo numbing cream is a topical anesthetic that is used to reduce pain during tattooing. It works by temporarily blocking the nerve signals that transmit pain from the skin to the brain.
How do tattoo numbing creams work?
Tattoo numbing creams contain active ingredients that block the neurotransmitters, which are responsible for sending pain signals. This prevents the pain signals from reaching the brain, thereby reducing or eliminating pain during tattooing.
What are the benefits of using a tattoo numbing cream?
There are several benefits to using a tattoo numbing cream, including:
Reduces pain: Tattoo numbing creams can significantly reduce or eliminate pain during tattooing.
Makes the tattooing experience more comfortable: Tattooing can be a painful experience, and using a numbing cream can make it more comfortable.
Allows the tattoo artist to work more efficiently: When the client is not in pain, the tattoo artist can work more efficiently and produce a better tattoo.
What are the different types of tattoo numbing creams?
There are three main types of tattoo numbing creams, based on their active ingredients:
Nerve deadners: These creams contain lidocaine or prilocaine, which block sodium channels in nerve cells.
Nerve blockers: These creams contain tetracaine or benzocaine, which also block sodium channels in nerve cells.
Vasoconstrictors: These creams contain epinephrine, which constricts blood vessels.
How do I choose the right tattoo numbing cream for me?
The best tattoo numbing cream for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include:
Your skin type: f you have sensitive skin, you may want to choose a cream that is specifically designed for sensitive skin.
The location of the tattoo: The location of the tattoo can affect the type of cream you need. For example, creams that are designed for use on the face are typically more gentle than creams that are designed for use on other parts of the body.
The pain level you expect: If you expect a high level of pain, you may want to choose a cream that is stronger than a cream that is designed for mild pain.
How do I apply tattoo numbing cream?
To apply tattoo numbing cream, follow these steps:
1. Wash the area to be tattooed with soap and water and pat it dry.
2. Apply a generous amount of cream to the area.
3. Cover the area with plastic wrap to help the cream absorb into the skin.
4. Wait 15-30 minutes for the cream to take effect before starting the tattooing process.
How long does tattoo numbing cream last?
The numbing effects of tattoo numbing cream typically last for several hours. This is usually enough time to complete most tattooing sessions. However, the numbing effect may wear off sooner if the cream is rubbed off or exposed to water.
Are tattoo numbing creams safe?
Tattoo numbing creams are generally safe for most people to use. However, there are some potential side effects, such as skin irritation, numbness, and tingling. It is important to read the label carefully and follow the directions before using any tattoo numbing cream.
Where can I buy tattoo numbing cream?
Amazon is a great place to buy Tattoo numbing creams and at some tattoo parlors.
Can I use tattoo numbing cream with other medications?
It is important to talk to your doctor before using tattoo numbing cream with other medications, as there may be interactions.
