“Do you use numbing cream?”
“Do you use numbing cream?” It’s one of the questions I’m asked most as a tattoo artist. Short answer is no, the long answer is…
I personally will not use or recommend any numbing creams to prevent liability issues from arising. Also knowing these possible side effects, I cant do so in good conscience. If you choose to use them for yourself that’s your choice. However the onus is on you, if health or healing difficulties do arise, as you have chosen to use a product on your own. Free touch-ups also will not be guaranteed.
Possible side effects:
Lidocaine
The main active ingredient in numbing creams is Lidocaine. The FDA recently released a warning for consumers to avoid certain numbing creams due to their potential for health hazards. Creams with a higher than 4% concentration of lidocaine or that are intended to be applied in a way that could increase absorption through the skin may cause serious health side effects including… irregular heartbeat, seizures, breathing difficulties, numbness or prickling around the mouth or tongue, ringing in ears, blurred vision, dizziness, changes in mood or awareness. These products may also interact with medications, otc pain relievers or supplements.
Epinephrine
A common ingredient used in numbing creams is epinephrine. It’s a vasoconstrictor used to keep the lidocaine localized and prevent it from wearing off quickly. This also causes the skin it’s applied to become noticeably tougher to work with and can hinder pigment saturation. There have also been cases of epinephrine toxicity due to over absorption because of over usage or use on broken skin. Epinephrine overdosage can cause serious heart conditions such as tachycardia, elevated blood pressure, hypertension or dysrhythmia.
Main takeaways… if you do intend to use numbing cream…
talk with your DR. before using it if you have ANY medical conditions or are on ANY medications.
know the product you intend to use, it’s ingredients, and their recommended levels. DO THE RESEARCH! It’s your body, your tattoo, your responsibility.
DISCLAIMER
I AM (OBVIOUSLY) NOT A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL NOR IS THIS INTENDED TO BE MEDICAL ADVICE. Come on guys… seriously. I’m only relaying information that I hope will be useful and help raise awareness in clients. I would also hope that they’ll educate THEMSELVES further and make their own decisions on what they believe is best for them.
Below are some articles pertaining to the above information…
