Getting a tattoo can hurt. But good news! There is something called tattoo numbing cream that can help make it less painful. If you live in North America and want a tattoo, this guide will help you find the best tattoo numbing cream for you.
What Is Tattoo Numbing Cream?
Tattoo numbing cream is a special cream that makes your skin feel less pain. You put it on your skin before getting a tattoo. It works by making the area “numb” or sleepy. This means you will feel less pain when the tattoo needle touches your skin.
Why Use Numbing Cream?
Many people in North America use numbing cream because:
- Tattoos can hurt a lot, especially on bony areas like ribs or feet
- It helps you sit still for longer tattoo sessions
- It makes the tattoo experience better
- It is safe when used correctly
Now let’s look at how to pick the best tattoo numbing cream.
1. How Well It Works (Performance)
The most important thing is how well the cream stops pain. Look for creams with these ingredients:
- Lidocaine (5%): This is the most common and works well
- Benzocaine: Another good pain blocker
- Tetracaine: Works fast and lasts long
The best tattoo numbing cream has at least 4% lidocaine. More than 5% might not be allowed in some U.S. states. Always check your local rules.
North American Tip: In cold places like Canada, your skin might be drier. Choose a cream with moisturizing ingredients too.
2. How Much It Costs (Price)
Numbing creams come in different prices:
- Cheap ($5-$10): Good for small tattoos, but may not work as well
- Medium ($10-$20): Best for most people. Works well and is not too expensive
- Expensive ($20+): Very strong, good for big tattoos or very painful areas
The best tattoo numbing cream for you depends on your budget. Most people find the medium-priced ones work best. Remember – you get what you pay for!
3. How Long It Lasts (Durability)
You want a cream that works for the whole tattoo session. Look for these times:
- Short (30-60 minutes): Good for small tattoos like a small heart or name
- Medium (60-90 minutes): Good for medium tattoos like a small animal
- Long (90+ minutes): Best for big tattoos or painful areas
The best tattoo numbing cream lasts at least 60 minutes. For large tattoos in places like California or Texas where sessions can be long, choose a cream that works for 90 minutes or more.
4. Who Makes It (Brand)
Some brands are trusted more than others in North America:
- Numb Master: Very popular in the U.S. Works well and is easy to find
- Outre: Good for sensitive skin. Many tattoo shops in Canada use this
- Episoft: Strong formula. Good for big tattoos
- Zensa: Natural ingredients. Good if you worry about chemicals
The best tattoo numbing cream comes from a brand that follows U.S. and Canadian safety rules. Always check if the brand is approved by health departments.
5. What Others Say (User Reviews)
Real people’s experiences help you pick the best tattoo numbing cream. Here’s what most people say:
- “I used Numb Master for my ankle tattoo. It worked great! Only felt 30% of the pain.”
- “Outre was perfect for my first tattoo. My skin didn’t get red or itchy.”
- “Zensa is more expensive but worth it. I got a back piece and sat through 4 hours with less pain.”
Look for creams with many good reviews on Amazon or tattoo shop websites. Avoid creams with many complaints about bad skin reactions.
When to Use Numbing Cream (Best Situations)
Not all tattoo situations need numbing cream. Here’s when it works best:
- Small tattoos (under 1 hour): Use a medium-strength cream
- Medium tattoos (1-2 hours): Use a long-lasting cream
- Big tattoos (2+ hours): Use the strongest cream you can find
- Painful areas (ribs, feet, face): Always use numbing cream
- First-time tattooers: Use numbing cream to make your first experience better
North American Tip: In hot places like Florida, your skin might sweat more. Choose a cream that says “waterproof” or “sweat-resistant.”
How to Use Tattoo Numbing Cream
Using it right matters as much as picking the best tattoo numbing cream. Follow these simple steps:
- Clean your skin: Wash the area with soap and water
- Put on thick layer: Cover the area with a thick coat of cream
- Cover with wrap: Use plastic wrap to keep it in place
- Wait 45-60 minutes: This lets the cream work
- Wipe off: Clean the area before the tattoo starts
Never use more than needed. Too much cream can make your skin too numb and affect the tattoo quality.
Things to Avoid
Some numbing creams can cause problems. Stay away from:
- Creams with more than 5% lidocaine (not safe)
- Creams that say “for medical use only” (not made for tattoos)
- Very cheap creams from unknown brands
- Creams with parabens if you have sensitive skin
Your tattoo artist knows what works best. Always ask them what numbing cream they suggest.
Final Tips for Picking the Best Tattoo Numbing Cream
- Talk to your tattoo artist first: They know what works with their machines
- Test on small area: Try the cream on your arm a few days before
- Check return policy: In case it doesn’t work for you
- Buy from trusted places: Amazon, tattoo shops, or drug stores
- Read the label: Make sure it’s made for tattoos
Remember, the best tattoo numbing cream for your friend might not be best for you. Everyone’s skin is different.
Conclusion
Finding the right tattoo numbing cream makes getting a tattoo much easier. The best tattoo numbing cream for you depends on:
- How big your tattoo is
- Where on your body it is
- How much pain you feel
- How much money you want to spend
For most people in North America, a medium-priced cream with 4-5% lidocaine from a trusted brand is perfect. It should work for 60-90 minutes and have good reviews.
Now you know how to pick the best tattoo numbing cream! Talk to your tattoo artist, choose carefully, and enjoy your tattoo experience with less pain.
Remember: A little pain means a forever art. But with good numbing cream, that pain can be much smaller!
