For some, pain is an essential part of the tattoo experience — a kind of rite of passage. Others would prefer to be unconscious while the artist works their magic. But let’s be real: is getting a tattoo without pain actually possible?
Numbing creams seem to offer a happy medium. But how effective — and how safe — are they really? And what do tattoo artists think about using them?
Numbing creams contain active ingredients like lidocaine or prilocaine, which temporarily block nerve signals in the skin. This can significantly reduce pain during a tattoo session. While they don’t guarantee a completely pain-free experience, they can make the process much more tolerable.
Originally developed for minor medical procedures, numbing creams have made their way into the tattoo world. One important caveat: in many countries, these products are technically only allowed to be applied by licensed medical professionals. This means tattoo artists typically can’t apply them themselves, making it tricky to find a legal and effective option.
Most numbing creams need to be applied 30 to 60 minutes before your tattoo session. They’re usually covered with plastic wrap to enhance absorption and prevent premature removal.
The numbing effect generally lasts 1 to 2 hours. For short sessions, this can make a huge difference. But for longer sittings — like a full-day piece — the cream may wear off halfway through, potentially making the remaining time even more uncomfortable.
At BlackBear Ink, opinions are mixed. Most artists are neutral or even skeptical about using numbing creams during tattooing.
Demi (fine line, neo-traditional & all-rounder baddie) advises against it:
“The skin barely reacts after numbing cream is used. Normally, you can read the skin and know when to stop, but with numbing cream that’s much harder.”
Other artists, like Hanne (owner of BlackBear Ink and botanical/fine line queen) and Wouter (engraving & linework wizard), share similar concerns. Once the cream wears off, the pain can hit even harder. Since your body didn’t go through the usual adjustment period, it suddenly has to deal with intense pain — and there’s no option to reapply the cream mid-session.
Still, some artists are more open-minded. Joaquin (fine line & small realism magician) and Lis (blackwork & linework expert) take a more neutral stance:
“If a client is getting tattooed on a very sensitive area, I’d rather they sit still and stay calm. I can work around the less-than-ideal skin condition.”
Want to minimize tattoo pain in a more natural way? Try these tips:
A truly painless tattoo is still somewhat of a myth. Numbing creams can be a helpful tool, but they’re not a magic solution. Always consult your tattoo artist, choose safe and regulated products, and be realistic about the results.
That way, your tattoo experience can be not just beautiful, but also safe, comfortable, and as pain-free as possible.
share