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Getting a tattoo is an exhilarating experience, but it could also be a painful one. This is especially the case for some sensitive parts of the body and skinny people. If you’re worried about the pain, a standard procedure is to use numbing cream on tattoos to protect yourself from the stinging.

Finding the best tattoo numbing cream can help you make your tattoo-getting process much more comfortable and pain-free. But will applying numbing cream on tattoos affect its quality?

Let’s find out.

How Does It Work?

Firstly, the numbing cream is applied only in the particular area where your tattoo is about to go. It works by numbing/dulling the nerve endings to prevent the sensation of pain. It can be dangerous if used incorrectly, so it’s critical to follow accurate instructions.

The cream is applied around 45 minutes to an hour (maximum) before your tattooing can begin to allow it to take effect. It is then wiped off before your tattoo artist begins their work.

So, what kind of an effect does a numbing cream have on your body and your tattoo? Keep reading to find out.

Effects of Applying Numbing Cream on Tattoos

The numbing cream is active by the time your artist wipes it off, and you will ideally not feel any pain or sensations in that area for another hour. This effect will gradually decrease as time passes and should ultimately subside within 2 or 3 hours.

A few tattoo artists believe that applying numbing creams is a time-consuming process where they will have to spend hours applying and removing it. However, that is not the case as most local anesthetic creams can be used by the client one hour before they show up for their appointment to make it easy for the artist.

Some low-quality numbing creams can cause a “slippery” effect on your skin, disrupting your artist’s work and making your tattoo look worse. The best tattoo numbing cream will be formulated to prevent your skin from becoming slippery after application so that you can get the most awesome tattoo!

Additionally, fake or cheap local anesthetic creams are also known to interfere with tattoo ink and ruin the quality of tattoos. However, numbing creams that are specially made for tattoos will never affect tattoo ink as long as they are wiped off before the process begins.

Conclusion

Numbing creams can often get a bad reputation because of a negative image created by fake or low-quality products. Many people believe that they are harmful to health and ruin tattoo quality.

This generally isn’t the case and the best tattoo numbing cream will give you sufficient pain relief without ruining your tattoo as long as you follow the instructions provided on the label.

Disclaimer: Consult your doctor first if you think you could have an adverse reaction to the numbing cream or have a history of problems with anesthetics.

Additional Reading

• What Is the Strongest Numbing Cream?
• How to Make Tattoos Hurt Less?!

You walk into the tattoo artist’s studio with sweat in your palms and a tingling sensation in your neck. You’re really excited about your first tattoo but also scared of the pain that will come with it. At this point, a numbing tattoo cream can be your best friend.

If you’re very sensitive to pain or have very low pain tolerance, you may be looking for the best tattoo numbing cream to help you stay comfortable through the tattooing experience.

We’ve compiled a list of the strongest numbing creams to help you find the best fit for you.

3. HUSH Anesthetic – Tattoo Numbing Gel

The HUSH gel is well-known among tattoo artists as being a reliable and safe numbing agent. It contains 4% Lidocaine mixed with other substances like glycerin, aloe, and propylene glycol that aid in complete absorption.

The gel’s effects last up to two hours and are enhanced by soothing plant ingredients in the formula, like menthol and chamomile, to give a relaxing experience.

The Lidocaine concentration in HUSH gel is not as high as other strong numbing creams. Still, the combination of a fast action formula, an FDA seal of approval for tattoo application, and soothing ingredients make this a very compelling choice.

2. Uber NUMB

Uber NUMB contains 5% Lidocaine, which is the maximum concentration of the anesthetic allowed by the FDA in an OTC local anesthetic cream. This high concentration and the water-based, quick absorption formula helps Uber NUMB give you a strong numbing effect on the area of application.

This product also has vitamin E as part of its composition, which helps fight inflammation while protecting the area against dryness. Overall, the Uber NUMB gives you a strong and rapid numbing effect to help you have a comfortable tattooing experience.

1. Ebanel 5% Lidocaine Numbing Cream

This is the strongest numbing cream and also the best tattoo numbing cream on our list. It contains 5% Lidocaine and lasts exceptionally long at a numbing time of around 2 hours. It’s a water-based cream that quickly absorbs into your skin within 20 minutes of application.

Liposomal technology aids this quick absorption and is a signature feature of this product. The price is also very reasonable, so it’s quite light on your wallet.

Conclusion

There you have it! These were the three strongest numbing creams you can find that are approved by the FDA in tattooing applications. They are all excellent choices, and you can’t go wrong with any of them.

Warning #1: Avoid buying creams that have more than a 5% concentration of Lidocaine. They are not approved by the FDA as OTC creams may cause some adverse effects.

Warning #2: Consult your doctor first if you think you could have an adverse reaction to a numbing cream or have a history of problems with anesthetics.

Additional Reading

• Can You Use Numbing Cream When Getting a Tattoo?
• Does Numbing Cream Affect Tattoos?

You’re about to get your first tattoo, but you’re scared of the pain that comes with it. We’ll be honest, tattoos can hurt like hell, depending on where you get it. But they don’t have to!

Have you heard about using a local anesthetic numbing cream on your skin to dull the pain when getting a tattoo? Are you wondering if it is safe and effective?

Well, keep reading to find your answer!

The Answer

Yes. But you need to follow the instructions and only buy the best tattoo numbing cream.

High-quality tattoo numbing creams can be a godsend for people who are terrified of the pain they might experience when getting their first tattoo.

A numbing cream is a local anesthetic. This means it is applied only in the particular area where your tattoo is about to go. It works by numbing/dulling the nerve endings to prevent the sensation of pain. It can be dangerous if used incorrectly, so it’s crucial to follow instructions.

Low-quality numbing creams have ruined the reputation of other numbing creams. They interfere with tattoo ink and ruin the quality of tattoos. Also, some people use general OTC numbing creams on tattoos rather than the specialized products. Numbing creams that are specifically designed for tattoos will never affect tattoo ink as long as they are wiped off before the process begins.

So, how do you properly apply numbing cream on tattoos? Keep reading to find out.

How to Apply Numbing Cream on Tattoos

1. Thoroughly wash, clean, and dry the area of the skin where your tattoo will go.
2. Put gloves on.
3. Rub the best tattoo numbing cream you can buy on to the area of the tattoo. Follow label instructions on how much cream to use. The general rule is to have a 1mm thick layer of cream on the site.
4. Use cling film to wrap the area and leave it for 45 minutes to an hour. (Never leave it for more than an hour).
5. Your artist can now wipe the cream off with a clean, wet cloth.
6. Get tattooed!

Conclusion

Your tattoo artist may be reluctant to use numbing cream on tattoos because of their previous exposure to low-quality products that did not work correctly.

You can educate them regarding this topic by showing them this list of the best tattoo numbing creams that are designed to give you effective pain relief without having any effects on your tattoo.

Disclaimer: Consult your doctor first if you think you could have an adverse reaction to the numbing cream or have a history of problems with anesthetics.

Additional Reading

• What Is the Strongest Numbing Cream?
• How to Make Tattoos Hurt Less?!

Last Updated on March, 3rd 2021

The harsh reality is that getting a tattoo is painful. One of the primary concerns that new clients have is how much the process is going to hurt; even people with multiple tattoos sometimes worry about pain before getting new ink.

Getting a tattoo is essentially a continuous wounding of the skin and can be stressful for your body. Luckily, during the initial hour, your body will also produce adrenaline and endorphins to help you cope with the pain; some people find this part of the process enjoyable. However, these hormones wear off quickly, and you still must find a way to manage the pain for the rest of the session.

To reduce tattoo pain, follow these tips before and during your appointment:

• Choose a licensed tattoo artist. Experienced artists usually take less time to finish tattoos. Before your appointment, meet the artist to get a feel for their personality and the shop’s hygiene.
• Pick a less sensitive body part. Talk to your artist about placement. (See the table above.)
• Get enough sleep. Your body can handle pain better after a good night’s rest.
• Avoid pain relievers. Don’t take aspirin or ibuprofen for 24 hours before your session. These medications can thin your blood, which may prolong the tattooing process.
• Don’t get a tattoo when you’re sick. Sickness heightens your sensitivity to pain. If your immune system is struggling, your tattoo will take longer to heal.
• Stay hydrated. Getting tattooed on dry skin hurts. Before your session, keep your skin hydrated by drinking enough water.
• Eat a meal. Low blood sugar increases pain sensitivity. Eat beforehand to prevent dizziness from nerves or hunger.
• Avoid alcohol. Don’t drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Alcohol heightens pain sensitivity, dehydrates your body, and thins your blood.
• Wear loose clothing. Dress in comfortable clothes, especially over the area you’re getting tattooed.
• Breathe deeply. Stay relaxed by practicing steady breathing.
• Distract yourself. Bring your headphones and listen to music. If your artist is open to conversation, or if you’re allowed to bring a friend, talk to them to distract yourself.
• Ask about skin-numbing cream. Your artist can recommend a numbing cream for getting tattooed.
• Communicate with your artist. If the pain is too much, let your artist know. A good artist will let you take breaks.

What Not to Do

While it may be tempting to use alcohol to numb the pain of getting a tattoo, most reputable artists will turn away anybody who looks even remotely drunk. The main reason for this is that alcohol thins the blood, causing excessive bleeding that interferes with the artist’s work. Thin blood also hinders the skin’s ability to accept tattoo ink. The thinner your blood, the more times an artist will have to go over the same area to get good color coverage.

The same principle applies to over-the-counter pain-killers such as aspirin, paracetamol (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol). These drugs will all thin your blood, extend the time of your session and increase the pain of getting your tattoo.

Avoid getting a tattoo when you’re stressed out. A tattoo is already a stressful procedure and being keyed up beforehand is a sure way to make it hurt more. If your body is already producing stress hormones, you’ll be more sensitized to pain, and the process will feel excruciating. Only allow an artist to start a session when you’re feeling relaxed and calm. If it’s your first time, let the artist know so that they can also try to put you at ease.for another

Choose the Right Area

Traditionally, certain areas of the body are more sensitive to pain than others. Areas where the skin is close to the bone, such as the ribs, shoulders, feet, neck, and face, are considered some of the most painful places to get a tattoo since the needle will feel like it’s grazing the bone. Areas with more fat and muscle, such as the lower back, top of the arm and top of the calf are much more comfortable and perfect for your first tattoo.

Everybody has different pain tolerances in various parts of the body, so what may hurt for one person may not hurt for another. If you’re not familiar with how your body will handle the pain of getting a tattoo, consider getting a small tattoo that can be completed in less than an hour session. It should give you a rough idea of how your body responds to the tattooing process without putting too much strain or pressure on yourself. If you find that the process wasn’t too bad, you will know that that particular part of the body is the right place for you to get more work done, or expand on your smaller piece. 

Prepare Before Your Session

Getting a tattoo is an energy-intensive process. While you may think that you’re just lying there, your body becomes extremely stressed by the constant wounding that’s occurring at the tattoo area, consuming a lot of energy. So, it’s a good idea to have a carb-heavy meal before going in for your session to ensure that you have a decent supply of glucose, which will help your body cope with the stress for a more extended period.

Bringing along snacks is also recommended for more extended sessions to help keep your glucose levels up and can also be a small reward for enduring the pain. Make sure you bring something calorie-dense and delicious, like your favorite chocolate bar or a bag of trail mix.

Hydration is also an essential component of keeping your pain levels at a minimum. Skin is plumper and tauter when hydrated which makes the tattoo artist’s job much more manageable. Your skin will accept ink more readily and speed up the process, which results in a shorter and more productive session.

Make sure that you’re well-rested before your session. As mentioned before, getting a tattoo is an energy-intensive process for your body and being well-rested means that your body will cope better and be able to make it through a longer session before needing to quit.

Numbing Creams

Many numbing creams are used extensively in the beauty industry to numb skin for a short period. There are even anesthetic gels, foams and sprays that are marketed specifically for tattoos. These may be an option if you’re getting a tattoo in a sensitive area, but their effect and duration is limited, which is not ideal for extended sessions. We have looked at the best tattoo numbing cream to help you find something that will work for you!

Concentrate on Something Else

One concentration trick that many tattoo enthusiasts swear by is focusing on your breathing during the session. Much like when doing heavy lifting or cardio, taking deep, steady breaths helps keep you calm, relaxed and ready for anything. Try taking a deep breath while the needle is being loaded and exhaling in a controlled manner when it touches your skin.

The best way to make your tattoo experience as painful and lengthy as possible is to focus on the pain continuously. Keeping yourself distracted is essential in managing and lessening pain, regardless of how you do it.

Some people like watching the tattoo process because it allows them to focus on the task rather than the pain. Others find that watching makes them notice the pain more. Everybody is different, so it would be best if you determine what works for you.

If you and your tattoo artist are both sociable, having a good chat is a great way to take your mind off the pain. Many artists love to get to know their clients and have plenty of stories to tell to keep the conversation flowing for hours on end. If your tattoo artist is a bit less chatty, ask them if you can bring a friend along and let them distract you.

If you prefer your tattoo session to be a solitary and meditative affair, there are still plenty of ways to distract yourself. Some people may meditate and focus on their breathing, while others listen to music or audiobooks instead. You can also make use of technology and use your session to catch up on TV shows or movies that you’ve wanted to see but haven’t had the time to watch.

It may take you some time to find a distraction that’s engaging enough to keep your mind occupied, so be sure to bring along a couple of options. If your session is long, make sure you bring a charger so that you aren’t left in the lurch during the final stretch, when the pain is at its worst.

Take Breaks

Eventually, no matter how well you distract yourself and how well-prepared you are, you’ll reach a point where the pain is too much. It may be tempting to try to power through the pain, but it’s smarter to take a short break, particularly during long multi-hour sessions. A break gives your body time to recover and you time to replenish your glucose stores with a snack. It also gives your artist a break, allowing them to regain their concentration and focus.

Make sure your breaks aren’t too long or frequent though, as your skin will start to swell when it’s not being worked on, making it difficult to work on afterward.

Conclusion

Pain and managing pain are quintessential parts of the tattoo experience. Every person will have their way of dealing with it, and your experience will be uniquely personal to you. Be sure to talk to your tattoo artist throughout the session, as they’ll also have plenty of advice on how to make tattoos hurt less. 

Additional Reading

• Can You Use Numbing Cream When Getting a Tattoo?
• Does Numbing Cream Affect Tattoos?

References:

• http://www.skin-artists.com/tattoos-and-pain.htm
• http://www.tattoos-hurt.com/tattoo-pain-scale/
• http://www.laboraide.com/article/1474-the-interesting-surprising-side-of-biting-down-during-labour
• http://www.military.com/military-fitness/workouts/breathing-during-exercise
• http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ss/slideshow-tattoo-problem