How to Use Numbing Cream Properly Before a Tattoo Session
- hontattoostudio
- 12 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Tattoo sessions can be incredibly meaningful, but let’s be honest—not everyone is ready for the pain. Whether you're getting your first piece or expanding a large tattoo, the fear of discomfort is completely natural. That’s why many clients at Hon Tattoo Studio, the best tattoo shop in Toronto, ask us about using numbing cream to help ease the experience.
What is Tattoo Numbing Cream?
Tattoo numbing cream is a topical anesthetic applied to the skin before a tattoo session. It works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the area where it's applied, reducing or eliminating the sensation of pain during the tattooing process.
How Does Numbing Cream Work?
Numbing creams penetrate the skin’s outer layer and temporarily desensitize the nerves beneath. Once activated, they can keep the skin numb for 1 to 3 hours—just enough time to complete most tattoos or get through the most painful parts of a session.
Who Should Consider Using It?
Numbing cream can be useful for:
First-time tattoo clients
People with low pain tolerance
Sensitive body areas (ribs, sternum, feet, etc.)
Larger tattoos that take multiple hours
Clients with anxiety about needles or pain
Pros and Cons of Using Numbing Cream
Pros:
✔️ Reduces pain significantly
✔️ Helps clients sit longer and stay calmer
✔️ Improves the overall experience
Cons:
❌ Not all skin types respond equally
❌ Ineffective if applied incorrectly
❌ Can affect stencil adherence if used improperly
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Numbing Cream
Step 1: Choose a High-Quality Numbing Cream
Look for products with at least 5% lidocaine and positive reviews from tattoo professionals. Avoid cheap or untested brands.
Step 2: Clean and Shave the Area
Wash the skin thoroughly and shave the area for better absorption. Do not apply lotion or oil after.
Step 3: Apply a Thick Layer Evenly
Do not rub it in like lotion. Spread a visible layer (2-3mm thick) across the skin without massaging it.
Step 4: Wrap with Plastic for Activation
Cover the area with plastic wrap (like cling film) to trap heat and moisture. This helps activate the cream and maximizes absorption.
Step 5: Wait 45–60 Minutes Before Tattooing
Let the cream sit undisturbed. The numbing effect will peak after about one hour.
Step 6: Wipe and Begin the Tattoo
Before tattooing begins, your artist will remove the cream and clean the area again. The numbness should last 1–2 hours.
Tips for Maximizing Effectiveness
Use only on healthy, unbroken skin
Follow the timing carefully
Let the artist know you’ve used numbing cream
Avoid caffeine beforehand (increases sensitivity)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying too early or too late
Using expired or unknown brands
Rubbing it in instead of leaving a thick layer
Forgetting the plastic wrap
Not cleaning the area first
Does It Affect the Tattoo Result?
When applied correctly, numbing cream does not negatively impact the quality of your tattoo. However, improper use can cause excess moisture, which may blur stencils or affect the needle’s traction. Always consult your artist first.
Advice from Hon Tattoo Studio Artists
“If you're nervous, there’s no shame in using numbing cream. But the key is correct timing and open communication with your artist.”
At Hon Tattoo Studio, the best tattoo artist in Toronto will guide you through every step for a safe and comfortable experience.
Book a Comfortable Session with Hon Tattoo Studio
Pain shouldn’t stop you from getting the tattoo you’ve always wanted. Whether it’s your first or your tenth, our team at Hon Tattoo Studio, the best tattoo shop in Toronto, will ensure your comfort from start to finish.
📩 Contact us at hontattoostudio@gmail.com
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Let’s make your next tattoo unforgettable—for all the right reasons.