How to Apply Tattoo Numbing Creams | TattooNumbX

You may be familiar with numbing creams to alleviate pain during medical procedures. But interestingly, these creams can be your secret weapon against tattoo discomfort. If the idea of getting a tattoo fascinates you, but the pain keeps you from taking the plunge, going for a Tattoo Numbing Cream for a tattoo is your best bet. Let's find out why it can help and how to apply it like a pro.

Why Use Tattoo Numbing Creams?

Tattoo numbing creams have become increasingly popular because they make having a tattoo much more bearable. In fact, you can use a Tattoo Numb cream and reduce discomfort by over 70% on your next ink session, depending on the product you use and the area you use it on.

Tattooing requires puncturing the skin repeatedly with needles, which can be painful, especially in tender areas. The anaesthetic chemicals in these creams effectively numb the skin. But other than alleviating the pain, these creams also offer other benefits. For instance:

• These creams improve the appearance of your tattoo. You might wriggle or move about involuntarily if you are in a lot of pain, which would ruin the artist's work. Numbing the region would prevent the issue.
• These creams help complete the procedure quickly because you won't grimace in discomfort. It can be a huge benefit when going for a large, detailed design.

In short, people use tattoo numbing creams to reduce discomfort, improve tattoo accuracy, and speed up the inking process. 

Steps to Properly Apply Tattoo Numbing Creams

Once you have decided to use the numbing creams, here is a quick overview of how to apply tattoo numbing cream:

1. Begin by washing your hands.
2. Cut the tube loose and use the cap's pointed end to make a hole.
3. Apply the cream to the desired area.
4. Wrap the numbing cream with plastic wrap (such as Saran Wrap or Press 'N' Seal) or a non-stick dressing to improve its effectiveness. 
5. Use tape to secure the covering if necessary.
6. Remove it after the time mentioned on the packaging.

Tip: Wash it off immediately if any of the cream gets in your eyes, ears, nose, mouth, or on any cuts or scrapes.  

Detailed Instructions on How to Apply Tattoo Numbing Cream

While it looks fairly simple to apply the cream, it is important to learn the details to ensure you get the best results. 

So, let's discuss these steps in detail to help you understand how to proceed. 

1. Clean the Area 

Hygiene is always a priority at every tattoo studio worth its ink. But it would help if you cleaned the tattoo area completely before applying any cream.

Since your skin already contains dirt, oil, and bacteria, applying numbing cream on dirty skin might trap these contaminants and slow or halt the healing process. 

To avoid this, first wash the area down with some gentle soap and water. You can also use cleansers containing salicylic acid, alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol.  

Tip: Make sure to give the area a good rinsing and dry it off after washing.

2. Go with a Generous Application

The second step is to apply the numbing cream for tattoos on your washed and dried skin.  

Numbing lotions penetrate the skin deeply to block the nerve endings responsible for the pain sensation. Once you have cleaned the area, apply enough to reach the nerve endings.

Here are a few things to keep in mind with tattoo numbing creams:

• Look for a anaesthetic cream containing numbing agents.
• Spread on a generous amount of cream, at least two or three millimetres.  
• Spread it at least an inch outside of the tattoo area.
• Use the cream solely on unbroken skin. 
• Rub it gently, but do not overdo it and leave some on the skin.

Tip: You can use numbing gels or sprays if you need additional pain relief while getting a tattoo.

3. Cover the Area

Once you have carefully applied the cream, it is essential to cover it up with something.

Not only is it practical, but it is also aesthetically pleasing to cover the numbed area. Wrapping helps your skin retain moisture, and the numbing cream gets exactly where it needs to go.

Using a cling film will do the job here. Cling film safeguards the cream from evaporation and inadvertent removal before it can do its job.

Tip: Do not apply the lotion to gauze or bandages since they will absorb the liquid.

4. Removing the Numbing Cream

Once you have covered the area properly, leave it for at least 45–90 minutes. This is usually enough to make the anaesthetic penetrate deep into the skin and do its job.

After applying the covering, wait 45 to 90 minutes before proceeding. This will most likely allow the anaesthetic to absorb into the skin fully.

After you have waited long enough, it is time to remove the cream.  

• Simply remove the cream with a cloth. 
• Use an alcohol wipe, damp washcloth, or baby wipe to remove any traces of the numbing cream.
• Finish by cleaning the area using water and mild soap, then dry it with a clean towel.

After removing the cream properly, you are all set for a pain-free tattooing session.

5. An Important Consideration

Remember that any trace of numbing cream that remains after the tattooing process may dry up and stay on the skin longer than stated on the label. Also, when not properly cleaned, the anaesthetics pose a health risk by contaminating tattoo needles and other tools.

Safety Precautions

In most cases, you can relax knowing that tattoo artists generally recommend numbing treatments. They will not do anything to disrupt your tattoo's healing time. Still, it is crucial to play it safe, and here is what you should bear in mind to avoid any undesired results.

Safety Precautions	Description
Patch test	Be sure to patch test the day before getting a tattoo.
Apply carefully	Avoid touching the eyes, lips, and other sensitive areas with numbing cream.
Follow directions carefully	Comply with the cream's instructions. The time limits exist for a reason—do not leave it on longer.
Health check	Consult with your doctor first if you have diabetes or heart disease.
Watch for reactions	Be vigilant for skin changes and oedema. If things go wrong, stop the cream and see a doctor.
Check expiry dates	Never use old, opened tubes and avoid expired products.

 

Summary

Numbing creams have historically been used in medical procedures and have many Uses but are now entering the ink-art world. With properties like lidocaine, or Eugenol (Clove Oil), numbing cream makes tattooing less painful. Plus, these creams speed up and improve tattoo precision. 

But, to get the best results, be sure to pay attention to how to apply the cream correctly. Never leave it for longer than instructed, and do not ignore any signs of reactions when using the cream. By doing it carefully, you will definitely enjoy an efficient and painless tattoo experience.