Use Of Numbing Agents

Approval For Use

Clients who wish to use a topical numbing product on the area to be tattooed must discuss this with their artist in advance and receive approval prior to their appointment. Not all artists are willing to tattoo skin that has been numbed, as these products can affect the tattooing process and may impact ink saturation, overall results, and the healing of the tattoo. Remember, by choosing an artist you are placing your trust in their expertise. Therefore, it is equally important to trust that the artist understands how their work will heal, which is a critical part of their skill and professional judgment.

*A test patch must be performed and evaluated by the artist at least two weeks before the scheduled session to ensure skin tolerance.

Application

Clients must not apply numbing products prior to their appointment unless they have been specifically instructed to do so by their artist. Numbing creams often work for 45–90 minutes and can cause effects to the skin that can change rapidly from one minute to the next. Because of this, many tattoo artists prefer to apply a product themselves so they can closely monitor how the skin responds.

*Any additional time required for application, activation, or observation of numbing products applied or monitored at the studio prior to the tattoo appointment will be charged at the artist’s standard hourly rate.

Adverse Effects and Reactions

When numbing creams wear off suddenly during a long session, pain sensitivity can return quickly, which can make it harder for clients to sit comfortably.

Topical numbing agents can also alter the natural texture and condition of the skin, potentially causing firmness, swelling, or temporary tightening. These changes affect how the skin accepts ink, which can impact the tattooing process, ink saturation, healing, and overall results, and may increase the likelihood of lighter areas or the need for additional touch-ups.

*Any touch up work needed following the use of numbing cream will be charged at the artist's hourly rate.

Additionally, many numbing creams contain epinephrine, which constricts blood vessels to reduce bleeding. While this can help initially, once it wears off the skin may swell or bleed more, which can affect how the tattoo settles.

Individuals with cardiovascular conditions should consult their physician before using topical numbing agents, as some ingredients may affect blood pressure, heart rhythm, and circulation, and small amounts may be absorbed into the bloodstream during the tattoo process.

Certain topical anesthetics can also interact with Blood Thinners, Anti-Arrhythmics, and Beta-Blockers, or worsen side effects

If the skin shows any signs of irritation, swelling, or abnormal reaction, the artist reserves the right to discontinue the appointment. In such cases, the client is responsible for all appointment time charged at the artist’s standard hourly rate, in addition to forfeiture of the deposit to cover the premature end of the session.

Use of numbing products is at the client’s own risk, and the client accepts full responsibility for any effects on the tattooing process, final results, health, or healing outcome.

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