Whether it’s your first tattoo or your twenty-first, there is no escaping the fact that tattoos are painful. Fortunately, there are some solutions to the pain and discomfort caused by tattooing. One is tattoo numbing cream. Available over the counter, these topical creams are easy to apply and popular with some people. However, before you invest in some, you may wonder if they are worth it. After all, some tattoo artists and businesses do not offer numbing cream to their clients.
Do Tattoo Numbing Creams Work?
The most important question you will want to know the answer to is whether a tattoo numbing cream will work or not. As is the case with most topical creams and other OTC pharmaceuticals, there are some products out there that are better than others. Though, tattoo numbing creams are safe and effective. It’s best to look out for one with as high levels of lidocaine as you can find as this ingredient numbs the skin properly and provides a significant amount of relief during a tattooing session.
Should You Use It?
Another question you may ask is whether you should use numbing cream or not, as many tattoo parlors do not offer this to their clients. Don’t let that fact put you off using it, however, as one of the reasons why many tattooists do not offer numbing cream for sessions is because they feel the pain is part of the process and its tradition. If you have a low pain threshold or just want to feel comfortable, particularly if it’s a large and comprehensive project, then you should not feel bad about using numbing cream.
There are other reasons why you may decide to opt for tattoo numbing cream, including:
- Depression, stress, or anxiety
- Lack of sleep
- Prior injuries in the part of your body you are getting a tattoo
- Suffer from chronic pain
- Genetics
- Other medical conditions
There is no right or wrong answer, just remember that. Getting a tattoo is a deeply personal experience and you should not try to fit into other people’s molds of what that experience should or should not be.
Risks You Should Be Aware Of
As stated earlier, tattoo numbing creams are safe. However, you must follow the instructions included in or on the packaging. They can seem harmless, but if you do not use them properly, they can lead to severe side effects.
It’s also important to note that some numbing creams contain preservatives or other ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction. Always read the label and make sure there is no trace of any ingredient that you know you are allergic to. If you are not sure or are concerned because you have sensitive skin, you should do a patch test initially.
There is nothing wrong with wanting your tattoo session to be a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You will not get extra points or save money by having a tattoo done without relief, so if you want it to be less painful, invest in some tattoo numbing cream.