Do Numbing Creams Really Help During a Tattoo Session?

Getting a tattoo can be a painful experience, and many people seek ways to minimize the discomfort. Numbing creams, also known as topical anesthetics, are one popular method for reducing pain during a tattoo session. These creams contain active ingredients like lidocaine, prilocaine, benzocaine, or tetracaine, temporarily numb the skin. But how effective are they really in helping during a tattoo session? Let’s explore the pros and cons and the scientific basis for their use.

How Numbing Creams Work

Numbing creams work by blocking nerve signals in the skin. The active ingredients in these creams inhibit the sodium channels in nerve cells, preventing them from sending pain signals to the brain. When applied to the skin, they create a temporary numbing effect that can last for several hours, depending on the concentration and formulation of the product. This can be particularly helpful if you’re getting a tattoo.

Pros of Using Numbing Creams

1. Pain Reduction: The primary benefit of numbing creams is the reduction of pain. This can make the tattooing process more bearable, especially for people with low pain tolerance or for tattoos placed on particularly sensitive areas of the body, such as those done at a Canggu tattoo shop.
2. Improved Experience: By minimizing discomfort, numbing creams can make the overall tattooing experience more pleasant. This can be particularly beneficial for first-time clients at a Canggu tattoo studio who may be anxious about the pain.
3. Longer Sessions: For individuals getting large or complex tattoos, numbing creams can allow for longer sessions without significant discomfort, potentially reducing the number of visits needed to complete the tattoo. This can be advantageous if you work with Canggu tattoo artists on an intricate design.

Cons of Using Numbing Creams

1. Variable Effectiveness: The effectiveness of numbing creams can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience significant pain relief, while others may notice only a slight reduction in discomfort, even in a professional setting like a Canggu tattoo shop.
2. Application Challenges: Proper application is crucial for numbing creams to work effectively. They need to be applied in a thick layer and covered with plastic wrap to ensure absorption. Incorrect application can lead to uneven numbing or reduced effectiveness, which might be an issue in a busy Canggu tattoo studio.
3. Potential Side Effects: Numbing creams can cause side effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, or redness. In rare cases, overuse or misuse of these creams can lead to more serious side effects, including systemic toxicity, something you might want to discuss with your Canggu tattoo artists.
4. Impact on Tattoo Quality: Some tattoo artists believe that numbing creams can affect the quality of the tattoo. They argue that numbed skin may react differently to the needle, potentially leading to issues with ink absorption or healing, which is a consideration in any Canggu tattoo work.

Scientific Evidence

Scientific studies on the effectiveness of numbing creams during tattoo sessions are limited. However, research on their use in other medical procedures, such as dermatological surgeries, suggests that they can be effective in reducing pain. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that lidocaine-based topical anesthetics were effective in reducing pain during minor dermatological procedures, and these findings could be applicable to tattoo sessions at a Canggu tattoo studio.

Tattoo Artists’ Perspectives

Opinions among tattoo artists vary regarding the use of numbing creams. Some artists, including those at Canggu tattoo shops, are open to their clients using numbing creams, especially for large or painful tattoos. Others prefer not to use them, citing concerns about potential impacts on the tattooing process and final results. It’s always best to consult with your Canggu tattoo artists about their preferences and experiences.

Conclusion

Numbing creams can be a useful tool for reducing pain during a tattoo session, particularly for individuals with low pain tolerance or those getting tattoos in sensitive areas. While they are generally effective, their impact can vary, and there are potential side effects to consider. It’s important to consult with a professional tattoo artist at a Canggu tattoo studio before using numbing creams to ensure they are applied correctly and to discuss any potential impacts on the tattooing process. This way, you can ensure a more comfortable and successful experience when getting your Canggu tattoo.

This article is first published here.