Everything You Need to Know About Tattoo Numbing Cream

Let’s be real: tattoos hurt. Some people love the sting, others brace for it—but at Lucky 24 Tattoo, we know comfort matters, especially during long sessions or sensitive placements. That’s where tattoo numbing cream comes in.

We get a lot of questions about numbing cream—how it works, whether it's safe, and if we recommend it… so lets dive in

“What Is Tattoo Numbing Cream?”

Tattoo numbing cream is a topical anesthetic designed to temporarily reduce the pain of getting a tattoo. Most creams contain ingredients like lidocaine, prilocaine, or benzocaine—all of which work by dulling the nerve endings in the top layers of your skin.

It’s typically applied (by you) about 60–90 minutes before your session, then wrapped to help it activate fully. Once it kicks in, most people feel a drop in sharpness or burning during the early part of the tattoo process.

Does It Actually Work?

Yes—but results vary.

Most clients using a high-quality cream report significantly reduced discomfort, especially during the first 1–2 hours. That makes it a solid option for long sessions or tricky spots like ribs, stomach, armpits, or inner thighs.

That said, numbing cream isn’t a miracle product. It may take the edge off, but you’ll still feel pressure, vibration, and pain once the effects fade. Also, everybody’s body reacts differently—what works great for one client may feel less effective for another… Say you’re booked for a 1/2 day for the linework of a back piece… you’re looking at an hour before the tattoo is started - which is an hour of your numbing cream fading, while we’re finalizing and sizing the design, printing, placing and letting the stencil dry. Some people say that when it wears off during a long session the shock of the nerve endings “waking up” is worse than if they hadn’t used it in the first place.

So, the main issue with using them isn't necessarily it changing the skin, but even when using it your body is still reacting to the pain (you know when you get tattooed and theres a point you just become used to the needle). Once the numbing wears off your body has used a lot of the endorphins (or whatever makes the body fight pain) so you go from very very minimal pain to pretty intense sharp stabbing, as if your body is catching up to what’s been happening while your nerves were numb.

“Should I Use It?”

That depends on a few things:

First-time nervous? Numbing cream can help ease your nerves and make your first session less intimidating.

Getting a big piece? If you’re sitting for several hours, numbing cream can make those first few hours easier to manage.

Super sensitive area? Ribs, sternum, and elbows are brutal. A little numbing help never hurts.

But here’s the deal: we recommend talking with your artist first. Some tattooers have preferences on what brands to use, how to apply it, or whether to avoid it altogether depending on the style and placement. At Lucky 24, we’re here to work *with* you—not against your comfort.

Things to Watch Out For:

* Not all creams are created equal. Cheap /sketchy products may irritate your skin or not work at all. Stick with the brand your tattooer recommends in your consult.

* Application matters. If applied wrong or too late, the cream won’t be effective. Follow all instructions and ask your artist if you’re unsure.

* It doesn’t last forever. Most creams wear off after 1.5–2 hours. Be prepared for the feeling coming back during longer sessions.

* Some artists may decline it. It can affect skin texture, and not all artists like how messes with ink absorption while tattooing. Always ask first.

Lucky 24's Take on It

We’re all about creating a comfortable, positive tattoo experience—especially if it helps you sit still during the process. Our artists are happy to talk with you about numbing cream and whether it’s a good fit for your piece.

Need a recommendation? We’ve tested a few options and can point you in the right direction.

Final Thoughts

Tattoo numbing cream is just another tool to make your experience better. Whether you're a seasoned collector or coming in for your very first piece, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Got questions about pain, prep, or placement? Just ask.

📍 Visit us at Lucky 24 Tattoo in Nashville

📅 Book a consultation today

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Let’s make your next tattoo a smooth one.