Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but for many, the pain associated with the process can be a significant concern. Tattoo numbing creams can help alleviate discomfort, making the tattooing experience more tolerable. If you’re considering using a numbing cream, it’s essential to choose one that is effective, safe, and suitable for your needs. Here’s a guide to some of the best tattoo numbing creams on the market, along with tips on how to use them effectively.
Table of Contents
The Top Picks of the Best Tattoo Numbing Creams
1. Dr. Numb® Numbing Cream
- Ingredients: Lidocaine 5%, plus additional anesthetics.
- Pros: Dr. Numb® is one of the most popular choices among both tattoo artists and clients. It offers a high concentration of lidocaine, which provides deep numbing for up to 4 hours. The cream is also easy to apply and absorbs well into the skin.
- Cons: Some users may experience a slight tingling or cooling sensation. It’s important to follow application instructions carefully to avoid overuse.
2. Hush Anesthetic Numbing Gel
- Ingredients: Lidocaine 4%, plus additional skin-soothing ingredients.
- Pros: Hush Anesthetic Gel is designed specifically for tattooing, providing effective numbing with minimal irritation. It also contains aloe vera and other soothing agents to keep the skin comfortable.
- Cons: The gel may take a bit longer to work compared to creams, and some users find that it needs reapplication during long sessions.
3. Zensa Numbing Cream
- Ingredients: Lidocaine 5%, plus epinephrine and additional anesthetics.
- Pros: Zensa Numbing Cream is known for its strong numbing effect and long-lasting results. It’s also free of parabens and preservatives, making it a good option for those with sensitive skin.
- Cons: It may be a bit pricier than other numbing creams, but many users find the cost worth it for the effectiveness.
4. Numb Master Numbing Cream
- Ingredients: Lidocaine 5%.
- Pros: Numb Master is a powerful numbing cream that provides fast relief and works for up to 4 hours. It’s well-regarded for its ability to numb the skin effectively without leaving a greasy residue.
- Cons: The cream can sometimes cause a mild burning sensation upon application. Proper use according to instructions is crucial.
5. Belmin Numbing Cream
- Ingredients: Lidocaine 5%, plus other anesthetics.
- Pros: Belmin offers a potent numbing effect and is often recommended for larger tattoos or areas with higher sensitivity. It also absorbs well and provides a long-lasting numbing experience.
- Cons: As with other strong numbing creams, it’s important to use Belmin as directed to avoid potential skin irritation.
How to Use Tattoo Numbing Creams Effectively
- Preparation:
- Clean the area to be tattooed thoroughly. Make sure your skin is free from oils, lotions, or dirt, as these can affect the efficacy of the numbing cream.
- Application:
- Apply a generous layer of numbing cream to the area and cover it with plastic wrap to help the cream penetrate the skin. Follow the specific instructions provided with the cream, as application times can vary.
- Timing:
- Allow the cream to sit for the recommended time before the tattooing begins. This typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes. Removing the plastic wrap before the tattoo starts will help ensure the numbing effect is fully realized.
- Reapplication:
- For longer tattoo sessions, you may need to reapply the numbing cream. Make sure to follow the product’s guidelines for reapplication to avoid overuse.
- Post-Tattoo Care:
- After your tattoo session, cleanse the area and apply a soothing aftercare product. Avoid using additional numbing cream on the freshly tattooed skin.
Considerations and Precautions
- Consult with Your Tattoo Artist: Before using any numbing cream, discuss it with your tattoo artist. Some artists may have preferences or recommendations based on their experience.
- Patch Test: If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, perform a patch test with the numbing cream before applying it to the entire area.
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions for application and usage to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tattoo numbing cream can make a significant difference in your tattoo experience. Whether you prefer Dr. Numb®, Hush Anesthetic Gel, Zensa, Numb Master, or Belmin, each of these products offers unique benefits to help reduce pain and discomfort during your tattoo session. By using the cream correctly and following best practices, you can enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable tattooing process.
