All it takes is a quick Google search to find people looking for pain-free tattoos. While most tattoo artists might find it hard to understand, there are people out there who don’t think the discomfort of being tattooed is a good thing. It would be great if tattoo parlors could offer pain-free tattoos by simply using numbing cream, but what makes a good numbing cream and do they actually work?
Why Don’t Tattoo Artists Use Numbing Cream?
A lot of tattoo artists refuse to use numbing creams or sprays during their sessions, and there are a few reasons for this:
- They consider the pain of a tattoo as part of the tradition and a rite of passage.
- They may have used numbing cream before and found it ineffective.
Some in the tattooed community view the pain as an integral part of the tattooing process, adding meaning to their tattoos. However, there will inevitably be clients with an ultra-low pain tolerance. For these clients, the pain may be intolerable, but that doesn’t make their tattoo any less important to them.
If you fall into the second group and have had a negative experience with numbing cream in the past, it’s important to note that not all numbing creams and sprays are ineffective. Keep reading to learn how numbing cream works and how you can make it work for you.
How Does Numbing Cream Work?
The effectiveness of numbing cream depends on its active ingredients. Most tattoo numbing creams contain three categories of ingredients:
Nerve Deadeners
Chemicals like lidocaine temporarily deaden the nerves in the skin, preventing them from registering pain. However, nerve deadeners are not always 100% effective for tattoos because they don’t penetrate below the skin’s surface. To maximize their effect, nerve deadeners are often combined with nerve blockers or vasoconstrictors.
Nerve Blockers
Nerve blockers, such as tetracaine and benzocaine, allow the nerves to register some level of pain but prevent them from sending the intense “OW!” signal to the brain. These pH-neutral chemicals are typically combined with nerve deadeners to prevent involuntary flinching. For numbing during permanent eyeliner application, a lidocaine/tetracaine mix, like Pro Plus cream, is commonly used.
Vasoconstrictors
Vasoconstrictors, such as epinephrine, are the most powerful numbing agents available. They cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing bleeding. Vasoconstrictors also slow down absorption, allowing other numbing agents to last longer when combined with them. Mixed numbing sprays like Vasocaine (lidocaine and epinephrine) and Blue Gel (lidocaine, tetracaine, and epinephrine) are highly effective for use during tattoo sessions, as they act quickly, reduce bleeding, and minimize swelling.
How To Use Tattoo Numbing Cream
Using numbing cream in your tattoo parlor may require some trial and error to get the process right. Here are the best steps to follow for a pain-free session:
1. Pick the right numbing cream for each tattoo.
Not every numbing cream is suitable for every tattoo. Using the wrong cream can lead to it wearing off halfway through the session and causing unpleasant surprises. Ensure you have the right tools by checking our selection chart.
2. Wash the client’s skin with a numbing wash or green soap.
Before applying the numbing solution, it’s important to remove dead skin and oil from the client’s skin. While green soap works well, using a numbing wash like Super Juice 3 can enhance the numbing effect by keeping the skin pH neutral.
3. Apply the pre-deadener and allow time for numbing.
After washing the client’s skin, apply the pre-deadener and wait for 5-30 minutes for the area to numb. The duration depends on the specific numbing cream and the thickness of the skin.
4. Wash off the pre-deadener and begin the tattoo.
Once the area is numb, wash off the pre-deadener and start the tattoo. Remember, the numbing cream doesn’t need to remain on the skin to continue working, and applying it to broken skin can cause irritation.
5. Apply an approved spray every 15-20 minutes during the session.
Using an approved spray, preferably a vasoconstrictor, every 15-20 minutes throughout the session will help keep the client numb. Consider transferring the spray to a small bottle with a nozzle for easier application.
Do you have a favorite numbing product? How do you use tattoo numbing cream? Do you allow it in your shop? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How effective are numbing creams for tattoo pain?
A: Numbing creams can significantly reduce tattoo pain, but their effectiveness depends on the active ingredients and how well they penetrate the skin.
Q: Can numbing cream be used for all types of tattoos?
A: Different numbing creams may be more suitable for specific types of tattoos. It’s important to select the right numbing cream for each tattoo to ensure optimal results.
Q: How long does the numbing effect of a cream last?
A: The duration of the numbing effect varies depending on the specific numbing cream and individual factors such as skin type and thickness. It is best to follow the instructions provided by the numbing cream manufacturer.
Q: Are there any risks or side effects associated with numbing creams?
A: While numbing creams are generally safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritations. It’s important to carefully read and follow the instructions, and if any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use and seek medical advice.
Conclusion
Numbing creams can offer a pain-reducing solution for those seeking a more comfortable tattoo experience. While some tattoo artists may prefer to forgo numbing creams for the sake of tradition, it’s essential to cater to clients with low pain tolerance. By understanding how numbing creams work and following the proper application techniques, tattoo parlors can provide pain-free sessions without compromising the integrity and importance of the tattooing process.
Visit TKTX Numbing Cream Store for high-quality numbing creams and sprays specifically designed for tattoo sessions. Experience a pain-free tattoo and make your client’s tattoo journey more enjoyable.
