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10 Best Tattoo Numbing Creams to Buy in 2024

As a tattoo artist, have you factored in the tattoo pain and strategies for minimizing the same? If not, this might just be a good time to invest in a good pain relief cream, better termed as a tattoo numbing cream.

Honestly, tattoos can often be painful. While in most cases the excitement of getting a new tattoo outweighs the fear and pain associated with the process, the discomfort might not dissociate itself completely from the process. Plus, certain individuals are way too sensitive towards pain and blood, making a tattoo session almost unbearable and filled with apprehensions.

A good tattoo numbing cream can help you out as a tattoo artist by deadening the skin portion for the entire tattoo session. Not just that, a reliable tattoo numbing cream also minimizes the chances of skin infections, which clients normally associate with a tattoo machine needle.

Best Tattoo Numbing Creams — Quick Summary

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Did you know that a high-end numbing spray from HUSH is capable of dazing a particular region of the skin within 90 seconds?

Therefore, a good numbing cream is what many tattoo artists prefer, so as to avoid downtime issues and quickly help clients get the best possible tattoo experience.

How does the Best Tattoo Numbing Cream Work

Firstly, you need to understand that numbing creams for tattoos have a certain working principle that tattoo artists need to be mindful of. However, you need to approach and understand the functioning of these creams, lotions, or numbing sprays as a tattoo artist and not a client, as customers hardly carry creams to the tattoo shops.

Therefore, as a tattoo artist, you should aim for a tattoo cream with 5 percent Lidocaine strength. Besides, you should carefully check the labels to cross-reference the Lidocaine strength as the 5 percent count is also the maximum limit for the OTC anesthetics.

Coming to the functioning, these Lidocaine-strengthened tattoo numbing creams daze the nerve endings and muscle tissues, whilst blocking the tattoo pain for at least one to even two hours. However, there are certain tattoos requiring extended spells of work, which might go beyond the stipulated 2-hour mark.

At this point, you can reapply the numbing cream as the same doesn’t interfere with the blood splatters and the ruptured dermal layer. Therefore, these creams can be applied even when the pain relapses, mid-way into the process.

Best Tattoo Numbing Creams

In the subsequent sections, we shall take a closer look at 10 of the best tattoo-numbing creams that are extremely useful for professional tattoo artists. Moreover, each of the enlisted creams has been extensively tested by our experts across diverse parameters, including composition, pricing, and other lasting effects.

1. Uber Numb – Best Tattoo Numbing Cream

Best tattoo numbing cream

Highlights

  • Takes almost 20 minutes to achieve the full effect
  • Can reduce inflammation
  • Doubles down as a skin moisturizer
  • Non-oily composition

Review

The Uber Numb 5 percent Lidocaine composition is what features atop our list of best numbing creams. Popularly hailed as one of the strongest tattoo pain relievers, this product offers a lot more than what a basic numbing cream promises to offer.

To start with this cream also enhances the skin penetration of a tattoo needle. The quick-absorbing formula associated with this product is what takes good care of the skin surface and prepares it for intensive tattooing.

As far as the effects are concerned, this topical anesthetic, best numbing cream, takes close to 20 minutes for achieving the full effect. Moreover, once the numbing cream starts working, you need to reapply the same after an hour to avoid relapses.

In addition to keeping pain to a minimum, this cream also heals the tattoo swelling and the associated soreness. The ultra-hydrating benefits of the same play a pivotal role in comforting the skin surface, post the tattoo session.

Besides, the non-greasy formulation is easy on the skin, owing to the water-based composition. Therefore, once the numbing cream dries out, you aren’t supposed to experience the hardened residues. Moreover, this product also doubles down as a good enough moisturizer and comes loaded with Vitamin E.

Therefore, you can expect the same to contribute towards skin healing properties. Not just that, even when your skin is bleeding, the water-based composition doesn’t get soaked into the blood and aims at healing the wounds to perfection. Lastly, unlike some of the other creams, this topical anesthetic doesn’t lead to any itchy sensation.

Overall, the Uber Numb readily justifies its topmost position on the list, courtesy of the excellent composition and a pretty affordable price point.

Pros
  • Improves skin penetration
  • Relieves pain in the best possible manner
  • Non-greasy formula
  • Quick to start numbing the skin
  • Targets pain receptors better than any other cream
Cons
  • More of a pain relief cream
  • Only lasts for an hour

2. Hush Anesthetic – Best Numbing Gel

Hush Anesthetic

Highlights

  • Capable of lasting for up to 2 hours
  • Gel-based formulation
  • The perfect thing for a sensitive screen
  • Non-oily, long-lasting formula

Review

Here comes another FDA-approved gel that works better than most numbing creams around. The Hush anesthetic numbing option or rather a gel runs deep and helps protect the second skin layer, in addition to layering the first. However, many tattoo artists who are using the cream for the first time aren’t privy to the exact usage patterns and end up getting underwhelming results.

That said, our experts followed the prescribed instructions to the letter and the final results were extraordinary. Coming to the exact nature of the Hush gel, this non-removing product is good enough to be applied to every part of the body. Moreover, despite the company promising a 2-hour numbing coverage, you can get results for close to 4 hours, provided you apply the same generously, an hour before the tattoo session.

Moreover, the Hush gel doesn’t only offer the full numbing effect. Instead, you can use the same as a skin-healing product, best suited for sensitive and hyper-sensitive surfaces. Not just that, diligent application of the Hush anesthetic numbing cream also minimizes screen cracking and drying, problems that are commonly experienced days after getting inked.

Coming to the composition and ingredients, this product makes way for green tea and chamomile extracts. Needless to say, both these ingredients have miraculous calming effects and play a pivotal role in qualifying the Hush gel as one of the better skin care products on the market.

Lastly, the inclusion of Aloe Vera makes Hush the perfect product for applying to the private parts, provided redness is an issue. Therefore, if you are looking for an all-inclusive product that is best suited for sensitive skin types, Hush Anesthetic is the one to purchase.

Pros
  • Handles sensitive skin like a pro
  • Numbs the skin surface for up to 4 hours, in select cases
  • Quick at numbing
  • The gel-based formulation makes it easier to apply
  • Vegan-friendly composition
Cons
  • Pricier than most

3. Topicaine 5 – Best for Healing

Topicaine 5

Highlights

  • Good enough for processes other than tattooing
  • Gel-based formulation
  • Fast-acting formulation
  • Contains active Lidocaine

If you are more of a gel person, the Topicaine 5 Lidocaine pain relief cream and tattoo numbing option is easily one of the better products on the market. More of an Anesthetic Anorectal gel; this anesthetic numbing cream is all about instant application and exceptional levels of skin numbness. Moreover, the Topical 5 Lidocaine pain relief composition, precisely as an active ingredient, ensures maximum strength and allows you to keep the area senseless for almost an hour and even more.

Moreover, as mentioned previously, this product also facilitates pain alleviation and offers extended coverage, provided you apply the same 30 minutes prior to the session. Coming to the most essential ingredients, the Topicaine 5 comprises Shea butter, jojoba seed extracts, and aloe leaf extracts. The ingredients clubbed with Lidocaine, allow you, as an artist, to use the product for longer hauls.

Furthermore, applying a tattoo numbing product hasn’t been this easier as the non-oily composition allows you to keep wearing the gel for longer periods. Moreover, this gel is also fit for use after getting a tattoo as the featured ingredients can help minimize skin drying and cracking.

Moreover, this gel doesn’t come with its share of side effects. This means, upon using the same, you need not worry about swelling, itching, and anything untoward. Lastly, Topicaine 5 also brings in an occlusive agent into the mix i.e. shea butter followed by alpha-bisabolol, which is one of the more reliable healing agents in play.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a non-greasy product that is easy to use and wipe off if applied in excess, the Topicaine 5 Lidocaine pain relief cream cum gel is the best option in the retail space.

Pros
  • No side effects
  • Fast results guaranteed
  • Targets pain receptors
  • Comes with several skin calming and occlusive ingredients like shea butter
  • Non-greasy product
Cons
  • Doesn’t offer the best numbing effect
  • Not the most cost-effective option

4. Numb Master – Best for Countering Itching

best numbing cream for tattoos

Highlights

  • Topical cream for numbing
  • Also helps with pain relief
  • Packed with aloe vera and Vitamin E derivatives
  • Child-resistant cap

Review

The Numb Master tattoo numbing cream is one of the best options in the market for lowering the pain associated with a new tattoo. Not just that, this product is also capable of dealing with itching, which generally shows up a week after getting a tattoo.

As far as the usage patterns and application are concerned, each ingredient associated with the Numb Master cream is capable of managing inflammation, provided you are ready to apply a thick layer onto the skin surface and give it time to seep in.

Moreover, you can apply numbing cream 20 minutes prior to the process and the effects are expected to last for almost 2 hours. Therefore, if as an artist you are assigned the task of designing a complicated tattoo that requires shading and color packing, the Numb Master numbing cream is the one to purchase.

When it comes to composition, this popular solution comes equipped with aloe vera extracts, which minimize discomfort and even take care of skin inflammation. Moreover, regardless of the tattoo ink you use, aloe vera has soothing capabilities and even a role to play in offering pain relief.

Therefore, if you are looking at the best creams and gels for advanced numbing effects, the Numb Master numbing cream for tattoos is a reliable and cost-effective option to invest in. Moreover, this is one of the few products for sensitive skin types as the Liposomal technology associated with the same doesn’t add to skin irritation.

Pros
  • Non oily composition
  • Offers a long-lasting numbing effect
  • Contains Vitamin E for better skin healing process
  • Increases penetration
  • Paraben free
Cons
  • Doesn’t offer complete numbness
  • Not exactly cost-effective if you are a budding tattoo artist as you need to apply a thick layer at all times

5. Deeveeant Numbing Cream – Best for Proper Numbing

Best Numbing Cream

Highlights

  • Can be used prior to electrolysis, microblading, and other processes
  • Features a special proprietary formula for advancing numbing effects
  • Better penetration
  • Child-resistant cube

Review

If you are tired of numbing creams for tattoos that offer subpar skin-dazing effects, one form of Deeveeant can be considered. While this product is also retailed as a Lidocaine pain relief cream, it is best known if as a tattoo artist you are looking at pure numbing effects.

Unlike other numbing creams that offer only a few ingredients in addition to Lidocaine, the one from Deeveeant comes equipped with a special fortified formula, best known for producing excellent results. If you are seeking details, the Triple-Dip formulation includes tea tree extracts, aloe vera, and jojoba oil for fantastic numbing and occlusive effects.

Therefore, if you are already using an excellent tattoo aftercare product like the Hustle Butter Deluxe cream, the Deeveeant numbing cream is expected to complement the hydrating properties, provided you apply the same, as prescribed.

Moreover, the natural ingredients associated with this numbing cream ensure minimal to zero itching. However, the product features on the list as it doesn’t restrict themselves only to numbing. Instead, you can even use the same as a healing agent, provided you aren’t using any aftercare product.

Plus, the tea tree oil residue acts as an antibacterial agent and takes care of skin infections. However, when tested extensively, our reviewers were most impressed with the advanced penetration and quick absorption of this cream.

Besides, as it is a non-sticky and oil-free product, it becomes possible to use the same regardless of skin type. Moreover, once you apply this skin care product cum numbing cream by accessing through the anti-leeching, child-proof tube, you can achieve the desired numbing effect starting at a mere 15 minutes.

Therefore, the Deeveeant anesthetic cream is probably the best numbing cream in the market if you are strictly looking for deadening agents which also double down as pain relief creams.

Pros
  • Offers triple numbing effect
  • Best known for a painless experience
  • Durable packaging
  • Easy to apply
  • Comprises natural ingredients
Cons
  • Might not be the best bet for hypersensitive skin surfaces

6. Derma Change – Best for diverse skin conditions

Derma Change

Highlights

  • Precisely formulated with shingles and burn effects in mind
  • Comes loaded with Manuka honey and butter
  • Dermatologically recommended
  • Zero untoward effects

Review

The Derma Change tattoo numbing cream isn’t simply meant for dazing the skin surface before getting a tattoo. Instead, this product is precisely formulated keeping diverse skin conditions in mind.

Firstly, this numbing cream for tattoos fits perfectly for countering shingles, itching, wounds, and even burns. As it takes skin rashes and flare-ups out of the equation, you can also terminate the Derma Change as the shingles symptoms relief cream that even numbs the skin surface and prepares it for tattooing.

This popular thing is free of side effects, parabens, gluten, and anything that might interfere with the state of physical well-being. Coming to the composition, this product flaunts a pretty diverse ingredient list, which might be overwhelming to the standard artists.

However, if you are a professional and known for managing clients with skin conditions, you might want to dig deep into the ingredient list, which is led by Coconut oil and Manuka honey. Clubbed with shea butter, these ingredients amplify the occlusive properties of this product, making it one of the best hydrating options on the market.

Besides, this product also contains aloe vera, cocoa, and Cehami, which further the healing process and skincare abilities of Derma Change in addition to the butter extracts. Plus, the pH balance is impeccable, making it one of the better options to consider.

Other traits pertaining to the Derma Change cream include fast absorption, zero irritation, and faster skin cell regeneration post-sessions. Overall, if you are strictly interested in an advanced cream that achieves a lot more than reducing inflammation and pain, Derma Change is the one to invest in.

Pros
  • Instant pain alleviation
  • Side-effect free
  • An extensive list of ingredients
  • Manuka honey adds to the occlusive properties
Cons
  • Not an out-and-out numbing cream
  • Not fit for highly sensitive skin

7. Ebanel Numbing – Best for Alleviating Discomfort

Ebanel Numbing

Highlights

  • More of a numbing spray
  • Anesthetic properties
  • Topical anesthetic cream with Phenylephrine
  • One hour of numbing support

Review

Despite this being a discussion regarding numbing creams for tattoos, the Ebanel numbing spray deserves a spot on the list. However, this tattoo-numbing spray has a lot going for it, in terms of composition, ease of usage, and even portability.

Firstly, this product features the all-important aesthetic agent i.e. 5 percent Lidocaine, which is the main reason for imparting advanced numbing effects. In addition to Lidocaine, Ebanel also makes room for 0.25 percent Phenylephrine, capable of minimizing post-tattoo soreness, redness, itching, and skin inflammation.

However, the ingredient list doesn’t end here as Ebanel comprises Arginine for better blood flow followed by Allantoin, which is best known for its additional skin-soothing capabilities. Therefore, the diversified and tested formulation is also suited for treating certain skin conditions like cuts, insect bites, and minor scrapes.

Coming to the application, the Ebanel spray is non-greasy, something that is expected of a spray-based numbing product. However, it is the odor-free composition that impressed us the most. Moreover, this spray can be applied both before and after getting a tattoo as the healing properties associated with the same are second to none and arginine furthers the same, almost considerably.

As far as the effects are concerned, the topical spray starts acting within minutes and you see peak results after 20 minutes or so. Therefore, as a trained tattoo artist, you can plan out the job accordingly. Moreover, this FDA-approved product offers one hour of numbing effect. However, reapplication is possible once the effect starts to wear off.

Overall, the Ebanel tattoo numbing spray is one of the better products in the market if you are more of a globetrotting tattoo artist and looking for a handy spray-based, popular numbing solution. Moreover, you should never count out the liposomal associated with the same in bulk, which in turn allows your tattoo needle to penetrate the skin with ease.

Pros
  • Seamless usage
  • Tested and FDA approved
  • Long-lasting numbing guaranteed
  • Also boasts antibacterial properties
Cons
  • Constant reapplication might be needed for complex tattoos

8. Numb 520 – Best for Experienced artists

Numb520

Highlights

  • Maximum numbing strength
  • Infused with Lecithin and Vitamin E
  • Comes with several hydrating features
  • Non-greasy

Review

The Numb 520 cream is one of the better bets if you are seeking maximum numbing strength. As a topical anesthetic cream, this product contains 5 percent Lidocaine, which is good enough for alleviating pain, soreness, and burning sensations.

Coming to composition, the anesthetic agent is perfectly complemented by the likes of Lecithin and Allantoin; an ingredient capable of lowering pain and discomfort. Moreover, Numb 520 also stacks in aloe vera extracts for achieving excellent hydration. Moreover, as the numbing cream is fortified with Vitamin E derivatives, it makes the job of tattoo skincare products like the Hustle Butter Deluxe cream easier.

Plus, this is one of the few FDA-approved numbing creams on the list, capable of easing out the tattooing tasks for the artists. Moreover, unlike some of the other pricier options on the list, the painkilling properties of the Numb 520 remain unmatched.

Moreover, this product lets go of paraben and other chemicals that might have adverse effects on the skin. Plus, as the harmful ingredients are refrained from, you can expect zero side effects and minimal to no itching.

Most importantly, this product is a holy grail of numbing creams for many tattoo artists. The inclusion of Liposomal speeds up the absorption and makes the skin better prepared for the needles and machines. Plus, as the effect runs deep, the entire region remains dazed for close to 2 hours.

Applying this cream is quite easy as it is an odor and oil-free formulation. Therefore, you need not worry about the cakey residues anymore. Moreover, the numbing starts taking effect within 3 minutes into the application and the effects peak at close to 25 minutes.

Overall, if you are seeking a numbing cream for tattoos, which has a lasting effect on the skin surface, Numb 520 is the one to purchase.

Pros
  • Non-greasy composition
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Helps with tattooing
  • The numbing effect lasts up to 2 hours
Cons
  • Not as effective as some of the other products

9. Super Numb – Best Multi-segment Product

Super Numb

Highlights

  • Easy to carry
  • Multi-faceted tattoo numbing cream
  • Can also be used for treating piercing wounds
  • 5 percent Lidocaine composition

 Review

The Super Numb tattoo cream is an exceptional product that can literally fit into any skincare routine. Besides offering a full numbing effect, this cream also boasts natural ingredients. Not just that, the composition is such that it plays a major role in speeding up any tattooing process, as the skin becomes penetrable and even heals quickly if applied after the process.

Moreover, this numbing product works like a multi-segment cream with abilities extending beyond the tattooing process. This means you can use the same for managing burning pain and even ruptures caused by piercing.

Coming to the formulation, the 5 percent Lidocaine is more than adequate for pain alleviation. However, we weren’t actually impressed with the production volume as only a 30-gram package is available for usage. Moreover, as the cream showcases a non-sticky composition, you might need to apply the same generously to get the desired effect.

Overall, Super Numb is one of the better skin-numbing products on the list, which allows the dazing effect to last for a couple of hours upon application.

Pros
  • Meant for diverse skin issues
  • Seeps into the second skin layer
  • Natural ingredients galore
  • One of the few non-oily creams
Cons
  • Not the most cost-effective cream

10. Relax and Wax – Best Cream for Every Body part

Best Tattoo Numbing Cream

Highlights

  • Thick application is needed
  • Excellent absorption
  • Non-oily formulation
  • Can be used for underarms and other exclusive places

Review

The last product on our list has been tested for perfection. Besides, Relax and Wax is one of the few numbing creams for tattoos that seeps into the skin quicker than most. However, to make the most of the numbing capabilities, you need to apply the same at least 45 minutes prior to the process. As the name would suggest, you can even use the same for waxing and piercing.

Coming to the application, this cream needs to be used generously, so as to fully coat the concerned region. Only then can you expect the same to show numbing effects, 40 minutes into the process. However, you need not worry about the cakey residues as the same gets absorbed within 5 to 10 minutes.

As tested by some of our in-house tattoo artists, the Relax and Wax numbing cream is also good enough for softening the skin surface for facilitating better penetration. However, you should refrain from tightly rubbing the same, or else the entire region might turn white in no time, thereby slowing down absorption.

Moreover, this is one of the few numbing creams for tattoos with zero side effects and extensive skin-based compatibility.

Pros
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Doesn’t stick
  • Chemical-free formulation
  • Can be applied anywhere across the body
Cons
  • Takes time to show the complete effect

How to Apply Tattoo Numbing Cream?

Now that we have touched upon every popular numbing solution, it’s time to understand how the application works.

Step 1: Choose the product that adheres to the skin type. This might include checking for the ingredients and opting for the anesthetic components if the tattoo design is pretty complex

Step 2: Wash the area thoroughly before you can apply the cream. This approach is meant for getting rid of the dust and dirt accumulated by the skin pores

Step 3: Apply the cream using waterproof gloves so as to avoid any contact with a water-based agent

Step 4: Start applying the cream gently, as per the prescribed instructions. It is important to read the guidelines carefully and apply the same in the desired quantity to see the results.

Step 5: Once the cream has been applied, cover the same using plastic wrap. Once you use the plastic wrap, you can facilitate better penetration and even avoid dust from entering the pores. However, you can even use medical tape instead of generic plastic wrap.

Step 6: Start removing the wrap or paper anywhere between 25 to 45 minutes. By this time you can start seeing the client’s skin showing signs of numbing.

Once the cream starts taking effect and the region is partially numb, you can start with the design. However, you need to check with the client as and when the sensitivity comes back, and then reapplication would be necessary. Moreover, you also need to be mindful of the tattoo ink that is being used. 

Pointers to take note of before purchasing a cream exhibiting the numbing effect

  • Check for the Lidocaine concentration as it is the best anesthetic around
  • Check for the label to apply the numbing cream perfectly
  • Consider Lidocaine blue gel variants if better numbing effects are desired
  • Get a product that lasts longer in case of a complicated design
  • A non-oily numbing gel must be prioritized

Top Rated Tattoo Numbing Creams

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

FAQs

What is the strongest tattoo-numbing cream?

If you are judging a cream purely based on the numbing effect and the desired potency, we would recommend Uber Numb 5 percent Lidocaine. However, if you see variety, you can opt for any other numbing spray or skin-numbing cream from the list.


Is it bad to put numbing cream on before a tattoo?

No, most numbing creams for tattoos are applied before getting a tattoo. However, there are a few creams with hydrating capabilities that you can consider even midway into the process or days after the session.


Do tattoo artists recommend numbing creams?

Yes, many tattoo artists recommend numbing creams, mostly if the designs are way too complicated. However, if clients already have tattoos on them, basic linework doesn’t always require numbing solutions.


What is the strongest numbing cream you can buy?

Going strictly by the time a product keeps the skin dazed, we would recommend Hush Anesthetic gel or numbing spray, owing to its 4-hour longevity.


How does numbing cream for tattoos work?

Most numbing creams feature anesthetic in generous amounts, which target the receptors and ensure that the skin layers do not feel anything. The nerve endings are rather dazed for a particular duration.


What to do if you’re allergic to skin-numbing creams?

If you are allergic to skin-numbing creams, consult a physician to identify the exact nature of the allergy. Once you realize which substances cause irritation, you can opt for creams, gels, or sprays that are most paraben and chemical-free or devoid of the mentioned allergic thing.

Conclusion

Now that we have touched upon literally every aspect of tattoo-numbing creams, it is up to you to purchase the most appropriate one, based on the client’s preferences, application instructions, numbing effect, ingredients, and certainly the cost.

But then, if the mentioned choices feel overwhelming to you, kindly purchase the Uber Numb as the best tattoo numbing cream, courtesy of the all-inclusive traits.

Related

Robert Green

Robert Green, the brain and brawn behind TattooLous is a tattoo enthusiast and a raging bullbat. After getting 20 tattoos made and even working as a professional tattoo artist for almost 5 years at a stretch, Robert chose to contribute towards the tattooing community in a different yet rewarding manner. Robert believes that the tattoo-making industry is rife with possibilities and, therefore, strives towards educating budding tattoo artists about the choice of kits, machines, aftercare products, and more. Moreover, each of Robert’s drafts is even relevant to the professional tattoo experts who are seeking additional insights into exclusive products and accessories.

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