Getting a tattoo can be an exhilarating experience, but the pain that comes with it? Not so much. If you’re looking to make your tattoo session more comfortable, numbing creams can be your best friend. These creams help minimize the discomfort, allowing you to focus on the art rather than the sting.
With so many options on the market, choosing the right numbing cream can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 18 best numbing creams for tattoos. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned tattoo enthusiast, you’ll find the perfect solution to make your next ink session a breeze.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Numbing Cream
When it comes to selecting the best numbing creams for tattoos, several factors need consideration to ensure you make the best choice. Here are the main criteria to keep in mind:
Ingredient Safety
Check Ingredient Quality. You want to ensure the cream contains safe, FDA-approved ingredients. Look for lidocaine as the primary numbing agent. Avoid creams with harmful additives, parabens, or sulfate. Choose organic options when possible for minimal irritation.
Effectiveness Duration
Evaluate Duration. Different creams offer varying lengths of numbing effects, typically ranging from 1 to 6 hours. Decide based on the length of your tattoo session. For extended sessions, creams with prolonged effectiveness are essential. Always follow the application instructions for optimal results.
Ease of Application
Ensure Easy Application. You want a cream that’s user-friendly. Look for products with clear instructions and those that spread easily. Gels and sprays offer alternative applications if creams are cumbersome. Choose options with convenient applicators to avoid mess and ensure even coverage.
Amazon Product and Review
Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel
Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel is a popular choice among tattoo enthusiasts for its reliable numbing effect and ease of use. Users love its long-lasting numbing properties, which make lengthy tattoo sessions more bearable. It’s also appreciated for its non-oily, fast-absorbing formula.
Review of the 18 Best Numbing Creams for Tattoos
You’ll find this section packed with valuable insights on the best numbing creams available on Amazon to make your tattoo experience as comfortable as possible.
Overview of Each Product
Key Features and Specifications
1. Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel
Experience a pain-free tattoo session with Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel. This popular choice among tattoo enthusiasts is known for its powerful numbing effect and easy application.
- Ingredients: Contains FDA-compliant lidocaine.
- Duration: Lasts up to 2 hours.
- Application: Gel form, easy to apply directly on the skin.
- User Rating: 4.5 stars with over 1000 reviews.
- Tattoo Numbing Gel - Non-greasy, water-based formula developed specifically for your tattoos. Block targeted nerve endings with maximum strength lidocaine. A unique blend of botanicals reduces irritation and inflammation. Includes menthol for counter-irritant benefits.
- Ingredients with a Purpose - Every ingredient that goes into Hush benefits you. Aloe leaf extra, a natural moisturizer, boosts collagen production and expedites the tattoo healing process. Green tea extract soothes the skin with antioxidants. Marigold flower extract supports the body’s immune response.
- The Science Behind Hush Anesthetics - Our topical anesthetics contains 4% lidocaine, enough to numb your skin by temporarily blocking nerve endings from sending pain signals to your brain. The effects last about 3-4 hours after your skin absorbs the tattoo numbing cream or gel.
- Easy to Use - Our topical tattoo numbing gel goes onto your skin one hour before your tattoo session starts. You may feel a cool, soothing sensation shortly after spreading it onto your skin—that’s normal. Leave the Hush Gel loosely covered with plastic wrap for one hour. It’s that simple.
- Tattoo Relief Since 2009 - We eliminated tattoo pain in 2009 with the introduction of HUSH Gel, the first tattoo numbing gel to prioritize comfort without compromising your body art. Tattoos don’t have to hurt!
2. Ebanel 5% Lidocaine Numbing Cream
Ebanel 5% Lidocaine Numbing Cream is another highly effective numbing solution. It’s renowned for providing deep, long-lasting numbing, perfect for extensive tattoo sessions.
- Ingredients: 5% lidocaine with enhancements from aloe vera and vitamin E.
- Duration: Provides relief for up to 3 hours.
- Application: Cream form, requires a thick layer applied 45 minutes before the session.
- User Rating: 4.7 stars with over 1500 reviews.
- FSA HSA Eligible OTC Medications & Treatments - This topical lidocaine numb cream with Allantoin, clinically proven to temporarily relieve pain, burning, itching, and discomfort, reduces inflammation and soreness in local and anorectal areas
- 5% Lidocaine Cream Maximum Strength - This pain relief anti itch cream provides immediate relief for minor aches, minor cuts, minor scrapes, minor burns, sunburn, scrapes, and minor skin irritations. It also works for mosquito bite itch relief, bug bite itch relief, insect bite relief, postpartum relief, hemorrhoid shrinking treatment, and anorectal disorders
- Enhanced Liposomal Deep Penetrating Skin Numbing Cream - Best efficacy, fast-acting & long-lasting. It begins numbing in 3-5 minutes, peaks after 20-25 minutes, and lasts 1 hour from its peak. Numbing performance may vary depending on the thickness of the skin area and individual metabolism
- Oil-Free, Odor-Free & Non-Greasy - Hypoallergenic, no harsh chemicals, non-addictive. Apply before, during, and after treatment, may reapply halfway for enhanced effect. Water-based formula for easy application and no-mess removal
- Made in USA in an FDA Registered Facility - Cruelty-Free, cGMP Certified, secured with a child-resistant cap. A performance test before treatment is highly recommended to assess your best performance timing
Remember, always choose a numbing cream considering your skin type and the size of the tattoo. This careful selection ensures the most comfortable and pain-free tattoo experience possible.
Top Picks for Quick-Acting Numbing Creams
When you’re in a rush, a quick-acting numbing cream can save you a lot of pain. These top picks will get to work fast, making your tattoo experience more comfortable.
Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel
Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel is a popular choice among tattoo enthusiasts. It starts working in just 10 minutes and provides up to 2 hours of numbing. The formula is botanically infused, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Users love its non-greasy feel and fast-acting relief.
- Tattoo Numbing Gel - Non-greasy, water-based formula developed specifically for your tattoos. Block targeted nerve endings with maximum strength lidocaine. A unique blend of botanicals reduces irritation and inflammation. Includes menthol for counter-irritant benefits.
- Ingredients with a Purpose - Every ingredient that goes into Hush benefits you. Aloe leaf extra, a natural moisturizer, boosts collagen production and expedites the tattoo healing process. Green tea extract soothes the skin with antioxidants. Marigold flower extract supports the body’s immune response.
- The Science Behind Hush Anesthetics - Our topical anesthetics contains 4% lidocaine, enough to numb your skin by temporarily blocking nerve endings from sending pain signals to your brain. The effects last about 3-4 hours after your skin absorbs the tattoo numbing cream or gel.
- Easy to Use - Our topical tattoo numbing gel goes onto your skin one hour before your tattoo session starts. You may feel a cool, soothing sensation shortly after spreading it onto your skin—that’s normal. Leave the Hush Gel loosely covered with plastic wrap for one hour. It’s that simple.
- Tattoo Relief Since 2009 - We eliminated tattoo pain in 2009 with the introduction of HUSH Gel, the first tattoo numbing gel to prioritize comfort without compromising your body art. Tattoos don’t have to hurt!
Ebanel 5% Lidocaine Numbing Cream
Ebanel 5% Lidocaine Numbing Cream is another excellent option. This cream acts in about 20 minutes and offers relief for up to an hour. With added Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Lecithin, it not only numbs but also nourishes your skin. Customers frequently praise its effectiveness and moisturizing properties.
- FSA HSA Eligible OTC Medications & Treatments - This topical lidocaine numb cream with Allantoin, clinically proven to temporarily relieve pain, burning, itching, and discomfort, reduces inflammation and soreness in local and anorectal areas
- 5% Lidocaine Cream Maximum Strength - This pain relief anti itch cream provides immediate relief for minor aches, minor cuts, minor scrapes, minor burns, sunburn, scrapes, and minor skin irritations. It also works for mosquito bite itch relief, bug bite itch relief, insect bite relief, postpartum relief, hemorrhoid shrinking treatment, and anorectal disorders
- Enhanced Liposomal Deep Penetrating Skin Numbing Cream - Best efficacy, fast-acting & long-lasting. It begins numbing in 3-5 minutes, peaks after 20-25 minutes, and lasts 1 hour from its peak. Numbing performance may vary depending on the thickness of the skin area and individual metabolism
- Oil-Free, Odor-Free & Non-Greasy - Hypoallergenic, no harsh chemicals, non-addictive. Apply before, during, and after treatment, may reapply halfway for enhanced effect. Water-based formula for easy application and no-mess removal
- Made in USA in an FDA Registered Facility - Cruelty-Free, cGMP Certified, secured with a child-resistant cap. A performance test before treatment is highly recommended to assess your best performance timing
Zensa Numbing Cream
Zensa Numbing Cream is well-regarded for its rapid action and prolonged numbness. It kicks in within 15-20 minutes and can last for up to 3 hours. This cream is known for its smoother application and minimal ingredients list, making it a good choice for people with allergies. Many users have commented on its reliability and long-lasting effects.
- MAXIMUM STRENGTH 5% LIDOCAINE CREAM | Effective over-the-counter topical anaesthetic numbing cream that does not change skin texture, constrict blood vessels, or affect ink settling and retention.
- LONG-LASTING PAIN RELIEF | Fast-absorbing formulation provides numbing for 2 to 4 hours, and can be extended to 6-8 hours with reapplication mid-session. Starts acting as quickly as 20 minutes after application.
- LOVED BY 50,000+ ARTISTS, BEAUTY & HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS | Zensa is the preferred choice of top ink artists, aestheticians and physicians across North America.
- MADE IN THE USA | Safe to use on sensitive areas. With only seven ingredients, Zensa making it the ideal choice for all skin types.
Lidocaine Plus Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream
Lidocaine Plus Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream provides fast relief, usually within 15 minutes. The cream includes Lidocaine and Aloe Vera, ensuring it soothes and numbs efficiently. It’s suitable for larger tattoos and is frequently recommended by users for its quick numbing and easy application.
- Includes one (1) 1.75-oz. tube of Icy Hot Max Strength Pain Relief Cream With Lidocaine Plus Menthol
- Icy Hot Lidocaine Cream desensitizes aggravated nerves to temporarily relieve minor pains associated with foot pain, back pain, muscle pain, knee pain and arthritis pain
- This pain cream penetrates to the nerves for quick relief in minutes that lasts for hours
- Apply non-greasy Icy Hot Pain Relieving Cream With Lidocaine Plus Menthol to the affected area every 6-8 hours; do not exceed 3 applications in a 24-hour period
- Icy Hot is the number-one topical pain relief brand* *among OTC topical analgesics
By focusing on these quick-acting options, you can find the best cream that suits your timing and skin type, ensuring a less painful tattooing process.
Best Long-Lasting Numbing Creams
Finding a numbing cream that lasts through your entire tattoo session can make all the difference. In this section, we’ll dive into some of the best long-lasting numbing creams available on Amazon.
Product C Details
One popular option is Uber Numb 5% Lidocaine Pain Relief Cream. This cream provides maximum strength pain relief that can last up to 5 hours. It’s non-oily, so it won’t stain your clothes or interfere with the tattoo process. Reviewers love its fast-acting formula, with many praising how it numbed the skin effectively throughout long tattoo sessions.
- FSA HSA Eligible OTC Medications & Treatments - This topical lidocaine numb cream with Allantoin, clinically proven to temporarily relieve pain, burning, itching, and discomfort, reduces inflammation and soreness in local and anorectal areas
- 5% Lidocaine Cream Maximum Strength - This pain relief anti itch cream provides immediate relief for minor aches, minor cuts, minor scrapes, minor burns, sunburn, scrapes, and minor skin irritations. It also works for mosquito bite itch relief, bug bite itch relief, insect bite relief, postpartum relief, hemorrhoid shrinking treatment, and anorectal disorders
- Enhanced Deep Penetrating Skin Numbing Cream - Best efficacy, fast-acting & long-lasting. It begins numbing in 3-5 minutes, peaks after 20-25 minutes, and lasts 1 hour from its peak. Numbing performance may vary depending on the thickness of the skin area and individual metabolism
- Oil-Free, Odor-Free & Non-Greasy - Hypoallergenic, no harsh chemicals, non-addictive. Apply before, during, and after treatment, may reapply halfway for enhanced effect. Water-based formula for easy application and no-mess removal
- Made in USA in an FDA Registered Facility - Cruelty-Free, cGMP Certified, secured with a child-resistant cap. A performance test before treatment is highly recommended to assess your best performance timing
Product D Details
Next up is Dr. Numb 5% Lidocaine Topical Anesthetic Numbing Cream. Known for its long-lasting effects, this cream can keep your skin numb for up to 3 hours. It’s a favorite among tattoo enthusiasts for its quick absorption and effectiveness. Users often highlight its ability to alleviate pain for the entire duration of their intricate tattoo work.
Most Affordable Numbing Cream Options
If you’re looking to save some money without compromising on effectiveness, these affordable numbing creams on Amazon are ideal choices.
Product E Details
Lidocaine Plus Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream is an excellent budget-friendly option. It contains 4% lidocaine, which is sufficient for numbing the tattoo area. Users report it starts working within 30 minutes and lasts up to 2 hours. The non-greasy formula ensures it’s easy to apply and doesn’t interfere with the tattoo process. It’s also enriched with aloe vera and vitamin E to soothe the skin.
- Includes one (1) 1.75-oz. tube of Icy Hot Max Strength Pain Relief Cream With Lidocaine Plus Menthol
- Icy Hot Lidocaine Cream desensitizes aggravated nerves to temporarily relieve minor pains associated with foot pain, back pain, muscle pain, knee pain and arthritis pain
- This pain cream penetrates to the nerves for quick relief in minutes that lasts for hours
- Apply non-greasy Icy Hot Pain Relieving Cream With Lidocaine Plus Menthol to the affected area every 6-8 hours; do not exceed 3 applications in a 24-hour period
- Icy Hot is the number-one topical pain relief brand* *among OTC topical analgesics
Numbing Creams with Natural Ingredients
Finding the best numbing cream for tattoos with natural ingredients ensures you get pain relief without harsh chemicals. These creams are perfect for those with sensitive skin or who prefer eco-friendly options.
Product G Details
Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel
This gel uses a blend of natural ingredients including aloe vera, green tea extract, and chamomile. Hush Anesthetic is popular among tattoo enthusiasts for its ability to numb the skin for up to 4 hours. Users appreciate the gel for not only reducing pain but also calming the skin during tattooing. The addition of chamomile helps in soothing the skin while green tea extract acts as an antioxidant, promoting skin health.
- Tattoo Numbing Gel - Non-greasy, water-based formula developed specifically for your tattoos. Block targeted nerve endings with maximum strength lidocaine. A unique blend of botanicals reduces irritation and inflammation. Includes menthol for counter-irritant benefits.
- Ingredients with a Purpose - Every ingredient that goes into Hush benefits you. Aloe leaf extra, a natural moisturizer, boosts collagen production and expedites the tattoo healing process. Green tea extract soothes the skin with antioxidants. Marigold flower extract supports the body’s immune response.
- The Science Behind Hush Anesthetics - Our topical anesthetics contains 4% lidocaine, enough to numb your skin by temporarily blocking nerve endings from sending pain signals to your brain. The effects last about 3-4 hours after your skin absorbs the tattoo numbing cream or gel.
- Easy to Use - Our topical tattoo numbing gel goes onto your skin one hour before your tattoo session starts. You may feel a cool, soothing sensation shortly after spreading it onto your skin—that’s normal. Leave the Hush Gel loosely covered with plastic wrap for one hour. It’s that simple.
- Tattoo Relief Since 2009 - We eliminated tattoo pain in 2009 with the introduction of HUSH Gel, the first tattoo numbing gel to prioritize comfort without compromising your body art. Tattoos don’t have to hurt!
Product H Details
Zensa Numbing Cream
Made with natural ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, Zensa Numbing Cream provides effective pain relief and skin healing properties. It’s designed to keep the skin numb for up to 3 hours, making it ideal for moderately long tattoo sessions. Customers rave about its quick-absorbing formula and non-greasy texture that doesn’t interfere with the tattoo process. The addition of vitamin E supports skin recovery post-tattoo application, ensuring less irritation and faster healing.
How to Use Numbing Creams for Tattoo Procedures
Using numbing creams correctly ensures a more comfortable tattooing experience. Here’s how to maximize their effectiveness.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Clean the Area: Wash the skin with soap and water to remove any dirt and oils. This helps the cream absorb better.
- Apply a Thick Layer: Spread a thick layer of the numbing cream over the tattoo area. Avoid rubbing it in.
- Cover with Plastic Wrap: Wrap the area with plastic wrap to activate the cream and help it penetrate the skin.
- Wait for Activation: Allow the cream to sit for the specified time (usually 30-60 minutes). Check the product instructions for precise timing.
- Remove the Wrap and Cream: Unwrap and gently wipe off the excess cream with a clean cloth before starting the tattoo procedure.
- Choose the Right Cream: Different numbing creams contain varying active ingredients. Products like
are highly rated for effective numbing with 5% lidocaine.Bestseller No. 1
Zensa Numbing Cream
- MAXIMUM STRENGTH 5% LIDOCAINE CREAM | Effective over-the-counter topical anaesthetic numbing cream that does not change skin texture, constrict blood vessels, or affect ink settling and retention.
- LONG-LASTING PAIN RELIEF | Fast-absorbing formulation provides numbing for 2 to 4 hours, and can be extended to 6-8 hours with reapplication mid-session. Starts acting as quickly as 20 minutes after application.
- LOVED BY 50,000+ ARTISTS, BEAUTY & HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS | Zensa is the preferred choice of top ink artists, aestheticians and physicians across North America.
- MADE IN THE USA | Safe to use on sensitive areas. With only seven ingredients, Zensa making it the ideal choice for all skin types.
$43.99Buy on Amazon - Follow Instructions: Adhere strictly to the application guidelines provided on the packaging to ensure maximum effectiveness.
- Test for Allergies: Before full application, test a small patch of skin to check for any adverse reactions.
- Reapply as Needed: For long sessions, you may need to reapply the cream. Consult your tattoo artist for advice.
- Keep Skin Moisturized: Some numbing creams, like Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel, contain soothing agents like aloe vera to prevent skin dryness.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll ensure a smoother and more comfortable tattooing process.
Safety Concerns and Precautions
When using numbing creams for tattoos, it’s essential to consider safety concerns and take necessary precautions to avoid potential risks.
Possible Side Effects
Some numbing creams can cause side effects. Common reactions include skin irritation, redness, or swelling. For instance, Lidocaine-based creams like Dr. Numb 5% Lidocaine Topical Anesthetic Numbing Cream
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often result in these issues if used excessively. Always apply a small amount first to check for allergic reactions or sensitivity.Who Should Avoid Using Numbing Creams
Certain individuals should avoid using numbing creams altogether. Pregnant women, individuals with known allergies to lidocaine or other active ingredients, and those with severe skin conditions should steer clear. For example, if you have eczema, you might experience an exacerbation of symptoms when using products like Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel.
By following these guidelines, you’ll limit the risks associated with using numbing creams and ensure a safer tattooing experience.
Alternatives to Numbing Creams for Tattoos
If numbing creams aren’t suitable for you, consider these alternative pain relief methods for a more comfortable tattooing experience.
Other Types of Pain Relief
Consider trying products like tattoo balms and cooling gels. One popular choice is the Ink Scribd Numbing Tattoo Balm. It contains natural ingredients like arnica and hemp extract, providing soothing relief during and after your tattoo session. Users appreciate its pleasant scent and easy application.
- NUMBING POWERHOUSE With 5% Lidocaine, you're getting the most painkilling power possible without a prescription. Your skin will be numb.
- BEST FOR TATTOOS We added Vitamin E to our formula, to give your skin a moisturizing boost and heal faster. Viatmin E is perfect for skin repair. Take your skin healing to the next level, use Ink Scribd Premium Tattoo Aftercare Healing Balm Ointment.
- LONG LASTING Many numbing creams wear off after about 20 minutes. Ours lasts up to 2 hours! No use feeling pain in the middle of a procedure. Get the numbing cream that works the entire time.
- FAST ABSORPTION Starts working instantly, with full effects after 15-20 minutes. You don't want to have to wait 45 minutes for your lidocaine cream to take effect. Get the numbing cream that gets to work right away.
- GUARANTEED If you don't see the results you expect from our numbing cream you have a whopping 365 days to return for a full refund. Buy with confidence.
Another option is the Tattoo Goo Cooling Gel with Lidocaine. This gel offers a cooling effect while its lidocaine content temporarily numbs the skin. Users rave about its cooling action and quick relief from discomfort.
Comparing Efficacy and Safety
Assess the efficacy and safety of these alternatives before your tattoo appointment. Tattoo balms with natural ingredients, such as Ink Scribd Numbing Tattoo Balm, often have fewer side effects and can be gentler on the skin compared to lidocaine-based creams. However, the numbing effect may not be as intense.
Cooling gels like Tattoo Goo Cooling Gel with Lidocaine can provide immediate relief but may cause mild skin reactions in sensitive individuals. Always conduct a patch test to ensure your skin reacts well to the product.
By exploring these alternatives, you can find a pain relief method that suits your preferences and needs, ensuring a more pleasant tattoo experience.
User Reviews and Feedback on Numbing Creams
Reading user feedback can give you invaluable insights into how effective numbing creams are for tattoos. Amazon reviews provide a wealth of information from users who have tried these products.
Positive Experiences
Many users have had great experiences with Uber Numb 5% Lidocaine Pain Relief Cream. It’s often praised for its quick numbing effect, lasting through lengthy tattoo sessions. One reviewer mentioned, “This cream made my 4-hour tattoo session a breeze. Applied it thickly an hour before, and felt minimal pain.” Users appreciate how easily it spreads and its non-oily texture, making it convenient to use.
- FSA HSA Eligible OTC Medications & Treatments - This topical lidocaine numb cream with Allantoin, clinically proven to temporarily relieve pain, burning, itching, and discomfort, reduces inflammation and soreness in local and anorectal areas
- 5% Lidocaine Cream Maximum Strength - This pain relief anti itch cream provides immediate relief for minor aches, minor cuts, minor scrapes, minor burns, sunburn, scrapes, and minor skin irritations. It also works for mosquito bite itch relief, bug bite itch relief, insect bite relief, postpartum relief, hemorrhoid shrinking treatment, and anorectal disorders
- Enhanced Deep Penetrating Skin Numbing Cream - Best efficacy, fast-acting & long-lasting. It begins numbing in 3-5 minutes, peaks after 20-25 minutes, and lasts 1 hour from its peak. Numbing performance may vary depending on the thickness of the skin area and individual metabolism
- Oil-Free, Odor-Free & Non-Greasy - Hypoallergenic, no harsh chemicals, non-addictive. Apply before, during, and after treatment, may reapply halfway for enhanced effect. Water-based formula for easy application and no-mess removal
- Made in USA in an FDA Registered Facility - Cruelty-Free, cGMP Certified, secured with a child-resistant cap. A performance test before treatment is highly recommended to assess your best performance timing
Criticisms and Common Issues
Despite the positive reviews, some users pointed out drawbacks. For example, a common issue with Dr. Numb 5% Lidocaine Topical Anesthetic is its short-lived numbing effect. One reviewer noted, “It worked well for the first hour but wore off midway through the session.” Another criticism is the potential for skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. A reviewer shared, “I developed a mild rash after using it, but it did help reduce the pain.”
Conclusion
Choosing the right numbing cream for your tattoo can make a significant difference in your overall experience. Whether you prefer well-known options like Hush Anesthetic Tattoo Numbing Gel or more natural alternatives like Tattoo Goo Cooling Gel with Lidocaine, there’s a product to suit your needs. User reviews provide valuable insights, highlighting both the benefits and potential drawbacks of each cream. By considering these factors, you can find the best numbing solution to ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable tattoo session.
