Why Don’t Tattoo Artists Use Numbing Creams? Exploring the Pros and Cons

Introduction: Why Don’t Tattoo Artists Use Numbing Creams?

For many people considering getting a tattoo, the thought of facing a needle can be daunting. As a result, they often ask whether numbing creams are used by tattoo artists. The answer is that, while some tattooists may offer to apply numbing cream before the procedure, most will not. In this article, we explore the reasons why tattoo artists don’t use numbing cream, debunking common myths about them, and weighing the pros and cons of using them.

Exploring the Reasons Why Tattoo Artists Don’t Use Numbing Creams

Tattoo artists have their own reasons for not using numbing cream on their clients. Here are some of the most common ones:

Professional Standards & Regulations

Many tattoo artists are bound by professional standards and regulations that do not allow the use of numbing cream during the tattooing process. For example, in the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has strict guidelines regarding the use of anesthetics and other topical agents during tattooing. According to OSHA, numbing creams can potentially interfere with the healing process by reducing blood flow and making it more difficult for the body to heal itself. Therefore, most professional tattoo artists will not use numbing cream.

Cost of Numbing Creams

Numbing creams can be expensive, and many tattoo artists view them as an unnecessary expense. In addition, if a client requests numbing cream, the artist will have to take extra time to apply the cream and wait for it to take effect. This can add to the cost of the tattoo, which is why many tattoo artists opt not to use numbing cream.

Safety Concerns

Tattoo artists are concerned about the safety of their clients, and many do not want to risk having any adverse reactions to the numbing cream. While most numbing creams are safe when used correctly, there is always the possibility of an allergic reaction or other side effects. Therefore, many tattoo artists choose not to use numbing cream to avoid these risks.

Debunking Common Myths About Numbing Creams in Tattooing

There are several myths surrounding the use of numbing cream in tattooing. Let’s take a look at some of them and see if they hold up:

Numbing Creams Do Not Make Tattoos Easier

One of the most common myths is that using numbing cream makes the tattooing process easier. However, this is not necessarily true. Although numbing cream can reduce the pain of the tattoo, it does not make the process any easier for the tattoo artist. In fact, applying and waiting for the numbing cream to take effect can add an extra layer of complexity to the tattooing process.

Numbing Creams Do Not Last Forever

Another myth is that numbing cream lasts forever. This is simply not true. Numbing creams typically last between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the product and how much is used. After this time, the numbing effect begins to wear off and the pain of the tattoo will return.

How Professional Tattooists View Numbing Creams

Although many professional tattooists do not use numbing cream, there are some who do. Let’s look at the pros and cons of using numbing cream from a professional tattooist’s point of view:

Pros of Using Numbing Creams

One of the main advantages of using numbing cream is that it can help reduce the pain of the tattoo for the client. This can make the process more bearable for those who are especially sensitive to pain. Additionally, numbing cream can make it easier for the tattoo artist to create a detailed design since the client won’t be tensing up due to pain.

Cons of Using Numbing Creams

The main disadvantage of using numbing cream is that it can potentially interfere with the healing process. As mentioned earlier, numbing cream can reduce blood flow to the area, which can slow down the healing process. Additionally, numbing cream can mask any signs of infection, which can make it more difficult for the tattoo artist to diagnose any potential problems.

Going Under the Needle: What You Should Know About Numbing Creams

If you decide to use numbing cream for your tattoo, there are some important things to keep in mind. Here are some tips for proper application and aftercare:

Application Instructions

When applying numbing cream, it is important to follow the instructions carefully. Most numbing creams should be applied at least 30 minutes before the tattooing process begins. Additionally, it is important to apply the cream thickly and evenly so that it covers the entire area to be tattooed. Finally, it is important to wait for the numbing cream to take effect before beginning the tattooing process.

Aftercare Tips

Once the tattoo is finished, it is important to remove any remaining numbing cream and clean the area thoroughly. It is also important to keep the area moisturized and covered with a bandage until the skin is fully healed. Additionally, it is important to keep the area out of direct sunlight and away from water until the skin is completely healed.

Numbing Creams and the Dangers of Overuse

Although numbing cream can be beneficial when used properly, there are some potential dangers associated with overuse. Here are some of the risks associated with using too much numbing cream:

Risk of Allergic Reaction

Using too much numbing cream can increase the risk of an allergic reaction. If you experience any itching, redness, or swelling after applying the cream, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Potential Side Effects

Using too much numbing cream can also cause serious side effects, such as dizziness, nausea, and even difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms after using numbing cream, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

The Pros and Cons of Using Numbing Creams for Tattooing

In conclusion, numbing cream can be beneficial when used properly. It can help reduce the pain of the tattoo and make the process more bearable for those who are especially sensitive to pain. However, it is important to keep in mind that numbing cream can interfere with the healing process and can increase the risk of an allergic reaction or other side effects. Ultimately, the decision to use numbing cream is up to the individual.

Conclusion

Tattoo artists have their own reasons for not using numbing cream on their clients, including professional standards and regulations, cost considerations, and safety concerns. Additionally, there are several myths about numbing cream that have been debunked, such as the idea that it makes tattoos easier and that it lasts forever. If you decide to use numbing cream, it is important to follow the application instructions and aftercare tips carefully to avoid any potential risks. Ultimately, the decision to use numbing cream is up to the individual.