Should I use numbing cream for my tattoo appointment?
This is a question we get asked a lot by our clients and numbing cream is a subject we haven’t yet covered in-depth in our previous blog posts, so we thought we would share some pros and cons to using numbing cream for your tattoo.
All things considered it is always best to consult your artist directly for their advice on the subject, as they may have their own preferences for their clients, and some artists will not tattoo a client if they arrive in numbing cream - so always check with your artist first to avoid any disappointment or lost deposits!
With anything topically applied to the skin, there comes risks and it is always important to do a patch test before applying anything to your skin. Your artist will require you to perform a patch test if you choose to use numbing cream.
What is numbing cream?
Tattoo numbing creams are topical anaesthetics and contain ingredients such as lidocaine, tetracaine, and benzocaine, which work by blocking nerve signals in the skin, helping to reduce pain sensations.
Although these creams have been used by tattoo artists and clients for years, the medical community has long expressed concerns about their safety. A recent report by the FDA (The Food and Drug Administration) brings these concerns into focus and emphasises several important issues that both consumers and practitioners need to consider.
What are some of the risks in using numbing cream?
The FDA has highlighted significant concerns about the potential for serious adverse reactions associated with tattoo numbing creams. These reactions include allergic responses, skin irritation, and even systemic toxicity (harmful effects that occur throughout the body, rather than just at the site of initial contact, after exposure to a toxic substance). While some individuals may experience mild effects like redness and itching, others could face more severe issues such as blistering, swelling, or breathing difficulties. In rare instances, improper or excessive use of topical anaesthetics can result in life-threatening complications.
The FDA report emphasises the importance of using tattoo numbing creams strictly as directed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Misuse or improper application of these products can greatly heighten the risk of adverse reactions. Furthermore, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or allergies should exercise caution and consult their GP before using numbing creams.
The FDA report also highlights the importance of buying tattoo numbing creams from reputable sources and avoiding unregulated or counterfeit products. Counterfeit creams may contain harmful ingredients or incorrect doses of active substances, presenting serious health risks. To minimise the chances of using unsafe or substandard products, individuals should purchase from trusted suppliers and ensure the authenticity of the items they choose.
In conclusion…
At Secret Society Tattoo Collective, we let you, as the client, decide whether to use numbing cream. If you choose to use numbing cream, it will be entirely your decision and responsibility. We also require you to perform a patch test at least 48 hours before your appointment to ensure your safety.
Pros to using numbing cream:
Providing you use a reputable brand, you will be able to enjoy a more pain-free session.
Effective numbing cream can help you sit longer, allowing more of the tattoo to be completed in one session and reducing the need for multiple visits or unfinished work.
Numbing cream can help to minimise twitching during tattoo appointments, making it a useful option if this is a concern for you.
Cons to using numbing cream:
Some numbing creams may not be effective, meaning you could spend money on a product that doesn’t work.
Numbing cream can alter how the skin responds to the tattooing process, potentially prolonging the session and counteracting the purpose of using it.
Numbing cream generally only lasts a set amount of time before it starts to wear off. At this point, it can feel more intense and painful than if numbing cream not been used.
Numbing creams can occasionally affect the skin's ability to take the ink properly, leading to washed-out or dull colours and uneven healing. Whenever possible, we recommend avoiding the use of these creams.
Some final things to consider before making your choice to use numbing cream:
Considering all of the information above, we hope this helps you to decide whether using numbing cream is worth it. Firstly, think about the size of your tattoo - if it’s small and only takes about an hour, numbing cream may not be necessary and will be an extra cost. Secondly, placement is another factor, as pain levels vary depending on the tattoo’s location on the body. Some areas are more sensitive than others, so it might be worth consulting your artist about this.
If you DO decide to use numbing cream, always:
Inform your artist beforehand.
Follow the product’s usage guidelines.
Buy a reputable brand.
Perform a patch test to ensure you won’t have an adverse reactions.
We hope this provides clarity on whether numbing cream is the right choice for you. If you’re still unsure, feel free to reach out - we’re always happy to discuss what’s best for you!