11 Top Numbing Cream For Tattoos [Review & Buying Guide]

Are you looking for the best numbing cream for tattoos?

I’ve always wanted a tattoo, but I was so afraid of the pain that I didn’t dare go to a tattoo artist before I found the right tattoo numbing cream.

So, I tested several brands, and I’m here today with my top 11 tattoo numbing cream reviews to ensure you have a pain-free tattoo session. 

Just keep reading. 

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Quick Summary

• Numbing creams for tattoos contain lidocaine, a common topical anesthetic.
• You can get a numbing cream on Amazon or Walmart. 
• Pay attention to the ingredients to ensure you get a high-quality numbing cream. 

11 Best Numbing Cream For Tattoos Review

Before I get to my top numbing cream for tattoos, let’s talk about how these creams work to keep the pain at bay during and after a tattoo session. 

Usually, numbing creams for tattoos contain lidocaine – one of the most common FDA-approved local anesthetics – and other active ingredients to help with inflammation. (1)

As dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky explains,

“This topical anesthetic works to block sodium channels in our cells and prevent nerve transmission, which effectively reduces pain signals.” (2)

And you can find such numbing creams online (Amazon, Walmart, etc) without a doctor’s prescription. 

But what is the best tattoo numbing cream in 2022? Let’s see my top picks. 

#1 Best Overall: Ebanel Topical Numbing Cream

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Ebanel is my top choice because it combines a strong dose of lidocaine with natural ingredients, such as Aloe vera and vitamin E, to numb the skin, relieve pain, and speed up the healing process. 

Moreover, it’s relatively cheap, doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, and is manufactured in the USA. 

Features & Attributes

Ebanel contains 5% lidocaine, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and lecithin to combat pain, soreness, burning, and itching. Its water-based formula is also odor and oil-free. 

Measurements

This topical numbing cream is available in a package of 1.35 ounces or 3.75 ounces (cream and spray). 

Benefits of Ebanel

• An efficient numbing agent that quickly relieves pain and lasts up to one hour after it peaks.
• It starts working in three to five minutes.  
• Ebanel has strong anti-inflammatory properties due to Aloe Vera and Vitamin E. 
• The cream is odor-free and non-greasy, so it won’t stain your clothes or make you smell like medicine. 
• Suitable for tattooing, waxing, insect bites, skin irritations, and more. 
• It has a child-resistant cap, which is excellent for parents that want to keep the cream away from curious children.
• I also like that it’s not tested on animals and is made in the USA. 

Drawbacks

• Not the best choice for long tattoo sessions since it works up to an hour and a half after application.
• It doesn’t work for all customers. 

How It Compares to Others

• It starts working quicker than other products, but it’s not as long-lasting as some other brands. 
• Relatively affordable and is FSA/HSA eligible. 

Expert Tips

• The manufacturer recommends you perform a performance test and reapply it halfway through the tattoo process for maximum strength.
• Customers recommend applying a thick layer over the skin and wrapping it in Saran wrap for better results. 

Testimonials

Customer reviews are generally highly positive, praising Ebenel Numb520 for its effect, ease of application, and quick action.

And as this video reviewer said, it worked better than expected and helped numb the pain during the tattoo process.

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#2 Best for Long Tattoo Sessions: Samnyte Tattoo Numbing Cream Before Tattoo

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Samnyte is my go-to product for long tattoo jobs because it does an excellent job of blocking nerve endings and keeping the pain at bay. 

Features & Attributes

• 5% lidocaine formula with added Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and menthol 

Measurements

• Available in a 2.1 Fl Oz bottle

Benefits of Samnyte Numbing Cream for Tattoos

• Maximum strength formula that provides pain relief for several hours after application 
• Easy to apply, thanks to the application spoon (no need to get your hands dirty)
• Multi-purpose cream, suitable for Brazilian waxing, laser hair removal, skin irritations, insect bites, minor cuts, and scrapes.
• It moisturizes the skin and soothes inflammation to speed up the healing process. 
• No dangerous side effects or interfering with ink retention
• The bottle will last for a couple of tattoos sessions 

Drawbacks

• It doesn’t last as much as the manufacturer claims – it wears off in two-three hours. 
• Not very effective for people with thick skin

How It Compares to Others

Samnyte lasts longer than other numbing creams I’ve tried, but it doesn’t completely eliminate the discomfort, especially if you have a low pain threshold. 

Expert Tips

You should wash the designated tattoo area with warm water before you apply this cream product.

Testimonials

Most customers are happy with Samnyte’s anesthetics cream and highly recommend it as one of the best numbing creams for tattoos.

As this video reviewer says, Samnyte is very effective in the first couple of hours and is one of the easiest creams to apply. 

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#3 Best Multi-Purpose Dr. Numb Topical Cream

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Dr. Numb is another favorite of mine, which I often use not only for tattooing but also for painful burns and soreness. 

Features & Attributes

• 5% lidocaine formula with Vitamin E and lecithin 

Measurements

• Available in a 30-gram tube 

Benefits of Dr. Numb

• A fast-absorbing formula that starts working in 15 minutes and lasts up to four hours 
• Hypoallergenic and suitable for all skin types
• It features a child-resistant cap to prevent accidental ingestion in children.
• Highly recommended by health professionals and tattoo artists
• It leaves your skin smooth and silky, not oily
• Scent-free, so it won’t bother you if you have a sensitive nose
• Made in Canada and GMP certified  

Drawbacks

• It works at maximum strength for an hour or two 

How It Compares to Others

Dr. Numb’s anesthetic cream has similar numbing properties to Ebanel 530 and Symnite, but it’s slightly better at providing deep numbing. 

Expert Tips

You shouldn’t use lidocaine for more than seven days, and avoid using it in large quantities. Food and Drug Administration states that the maximum safe lidocaine dose is 4.5 mg/kg. (3)

Testimonials

Dr. Numb’s cream has highly positive reviews, with customers praising its strong numbing effect and recommending it for big tattoo jobs. 

As this Reddit user says, “I HIGHLY recommend to anyone who wants a pain-free experience, or you’re getting a tat in a nasty area.” (4)

This video reviewer also had a great experience with Dr. Numb. Still, she does mention that she could feel the tattoo needles after an hour. 

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#4 Best for Sensitive Areas: Zensa Numbing Cream

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Zensa deserves its place among the best numbing creams for tattoos due to its strong and hypoallergenic formula. It’s also one of the few tattoo creams suitable for sensitive areas.   

Features & Attributes

• 5% lidocaine formula with anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as Vitamin E

Measurements

• Available in a tube of 30 grams/ 1 ounce

Benefits of Zensa Numbing Cream

• The cream starts working in 20 minutes and can last up to four hours, depending on your skin type and metabolism. 
• All-natural formula with 5% lidocaine, perfect for deep numbing
• You can apply it to sensitive body areas
• Zensa doesn’t construct your blood vessels and won’t affect the tattoo coloring and setting
• It’s suitable for children and all skin types 
• FDA-approved and made in the USA
• No parabens or other harmful ingredients 
• Easy to apply – check this video for a few tips on how to get the most out of Zensa. 

Drawbacks

• Not the best for large tattoos since it starts wearing off after 1-1.5 hours. 
• Not the cheapest option

How It Compares to Others

One of the few numbing creams safe for sensitive areas and suitable for kids. But it’s more expensive than other brands. 

Expert Tips

Don’t forget to cover the area with an airtight bandage after application and leave it on for twenty minutes for maximum absorption. 

Testimonials

Customers like Zensa’s cream and say it’s one of the best numbing creams for tattoos, piercings, and microneedling. 

And as this Reddit user explains, “Zensa is great. I use it, and lots of other artists use it too.” (5)

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#5 Best Quick Acting: Ink Scribd Tattoo Numbing Cream

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Ink Scribd is another excellent anesthetics cream with fast numbing action, perfect for people afraid of painful procedures. My friend highly recommended and I was amazed when I used it for waxing. 

Features & Attributes

• 5% lidocaine cream with added Vitamin E 

Measurements

• Available in a tube of 1 FL Oz

Benefits of Ink Scribd Numbing Cream 

• Fast absorption rate – the cream starts working without minutes for a pain-free tattoo experience.
• It can last up to two hours if you apply it following the instructions.
• The cream contains Vitamin E to moisturize the skin and help it heal faster a
• The manufacturer offers a 365-money-back guarantee, so you can return it if it doesn’t work for you. 
• Child-proof container

Drawbacks

• Oily and makes the skin a bit sticky
• Not as effective as expected

How It Compares to Others

It starts working quicker than other creams I’ve used, but it’s not as long-lasting as Samnyte or Dr. Numb. 

Expert Tips

• Try Ink Scribd’s tattoo balm ointment to relieve the itching afterward. 

Testimonials

8 out of 10 customers are happy with Ink Scribd and say that it made their tattoo experience less painful and is perfect for sensitive areas. 

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#6 Best for Fast Skin Healing: Inked Inspired Tattoo Numbing Cream

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With its fast-healing formula, Inked Inspired was a welcome surprise and quickly turned into one of my favorites, especially for dealing with irritated skin. 

Features & Attributes

• 5% lidocaine formula with added arnica and emu oil

Measurements

• Available in a 30 ml container

Benefits of Inked Inspired Numbing Cream for Tattoos

• It contains arnica and emu oil, which have soothing properties and help the skin recover after painful procedures. 
• The cream starts working in five minutes and can numb the area for up to two hours.
• It doesn’t keep the ink from setting and doesn’t affect the color
• Suitable for a wide variety of painful procedures, such as waxing, micro-blading, lip injections, etc.
• If you’re not satisfied with the product, you can reach the manufacturer and request a refund. 

Drawbacks

• Doesn’twork for everybody
• A small amount of cream for the price

How It Compares to Others

• Unique formula with arnica and emu oil for quick healing
• It doesn’t last as long as other popular brands, such as Ebanol and Dr. Numb 

Expert Tips

Ink Inspired has an amazing aftercare tattoo balm, which you can use to soothe any lingering itching or burning. 

Testimonials

As this video reviewer explains, he got over 45 minutes of numbing, even though he doesn’t numb quickly. He recommends that you follow the provided instruction for the maximum numbing effect. 

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#7 Best for People with Thick Skin: Face and Body Super Trio Topical Numbing Cream

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I was skeptical about this topical numbing cream, but Face and Body’s product turned out to be one of the most effective lotions for tattooing.

Features & Attributes

• 4% lidocaine, 12% benzocaine, and 2% tetracaine hydrochloride

Measurements

• Available in a bottle of 7/8 oz. 

Benefits of Face and Body Super Trio Anesthetics Cream

• Combines three topical anesthetics for maximum numbing power
• It starts working in 15-20 minutes
• Great for thicker skin application
• Designed to relieve pain during piercing, tattooing, and laser removal
•  Made in the USA

Drawbacks

• Small bottle, so it won’t last you for several tattoo sessions
•  Some customers complain that it quickly wears off

How It Compares to Others

• Unique formula containing three different topical anesthetics
• Lower lidocaine dose than other numbing creams

Expert Tips

Use gloves when you apply the cream to the desired area, and avoid contact with the eyes and mouth.

Testimonials

Most customers are happy with the numbing effect of this topical cream, but they expect it to last longer. 

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#8 Best Vegan: Uber Numb Cream

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Uber Numb Cream is another top numbing cream for tattoos, with excellent customer reviews and fast-acting formula.  

Features & Attributes

• 5% lidocaine formula with added Vitamin E and allantoin

Measurements

• Available in a package of two ounces

Benefits of Uber Numb Cream

• Unique formula with lidocaine, vitamin E, and allantoin for maximum numbing effect, skin soothing, and pain relief
• It starts working in five minutes and last 1-1.5 hours.
• It doesn’t have an unpleasant smell and doesn’t leave the skin greasy 
• Child-resistant cap to prevent accidental ingestion 
• Never tested on animals and 100% vegan 
• Made in the USA

Drawbacks

• Complicated application instructions, according to some customers,
• You need to apply a thick layer of the numbing cream so the package won’t last long. 
• Not the best choice for people with low pain tolerance. 

How It Compares to Others

Uber has similar effects to skin-numbing agents, but it contains allantoin to moisturize the skin and help it recover after the tattoo application. 

Expert Tips

If you want to enhance the numbing effect, the manufacturer recommends reapplying the skin-numbing cream after 15 minutes. 

Testimonials

9 out of 10 customers have a positive experience with Uber Numb and highly recommend it as one of the best numbing creams for tattoos.

But as this reviewer explains in the video, the cream has a numbing effect of about 1-1.5 hours, and it’s not the best choice for a long tattooing process. 

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#9 Best Budget-Friendly: Aspercreme 4% Lidocaine with No Mess Applicator

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If you’re looking for a cheap numbing cream for tattoos, you won’t be disappointed by Aspercreme’s no-mess roll-on.

Features & Attributes

• 4% lidocaine formula and mess-free applicator

Measurements

Available in a package of 2.5 fl oz. 

Benefits of Aspercreme 

• 4% lidocaine provides sufficient numbing effect for small/medium tattoo jobs
• Odor-free and doesn’t leave an oily residue on the skin 
• Roll-on applicator keeps your hands clean and mess-free
• Child-proof packaging
• Cheap 

Drawbacks

• The numbing effect doesn’t last very long
• Not the best choice for people with sensitive skin or a low pain threshold 

How It Compares to Others

• Not as strong as other numbing creams, but easier to apply without getting your hands dirty

How It Has Evolved 

• New packaging
• Available in a scented version

Expert Tips

This tattoo artist recommends,

“Apply a thick layer of 4% LIDOCAINE topical anesthetic cream to the area you are having tattooed.” (6)

Testimonials

Customers say that Aspercreme is an effective pain relief cream and that it can take the edge off when you’re doing a small tattoo. And as this video reviewer says, it’s really scent-free.

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#10 Best Low-Dose Lidocaine: Salonpas Lidocaine Plus Pain-Relieving Cream

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Sanoplas pain relieving cream is an excellent choice if you want to numb the pain but not lose all sensation. I often use it for muscle pain, and it’s highly effective for minor injuries. 

Features & Attributes

4% lidocaine formula and 10% benzyle alcholol 

Measurements

Available in a package of 3 oz. 

Benefits of Salonpas Pain-Relieving Cream

• It contains benzyl alcohol, which studies say is an effective anesthetic and can block nerve endings to relieve pain. (7)
• Great for a wide variety of conditions – from tattooing to muscle aches to joint inflammation
• It starts working relatively quickly and lasts up to eight hours (for minor aches and pains) before it wears off completely.
• It doesn’t have a strong smell.
• Affordable

Drawbacks

• Not the strongest tattoo numbing cream
• It can wear off in the middle of the tattooing 

How It Compares to Others

• It contains benzyl alcohol for a prolonged pain-relief
• Safe to use in children over 12 

How It Has Evolved

Salonpas has a wide range of pain-relieving products, including patches, creams, sprays, and liquid.  

Expert Tips

Read the instructions before you apply, and be careful not to exceed the maximum daily dose. 

Testimonials

Customers are happy with Salonpas and its numbing effect, saying that it helps take the edge off the pain, and they like it’s affordable. 

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#11 Best Scented: Bengay Pain Relieving Lidocaine Cream, Tropical Jasmine, 3 oz

Bengay is my final top recommendation for the best numbing cream for tattoos. I like its subtle jasmine scent and its non-greasy formula. It’s also quite affordable.  

Features & Attributes

4% lidocaine HCI and added jasmine scent

Measurements

• Available in a package of 3 oz. 

Benefits of Bengay Pain-Relief Cream

• It contains 4%, so it’s perfect for numbing skin and reliving minor aches 
• The subtle jasmine scent is soothing and can help you relax during your tattoo procedure
• The cream starts working quickly, and you don’t need to apply too much to feel the effect
• Non-greasy formula, so it doesn’t interfere with ink retention
• The tube is large enough to last for a couple of small tattoo sessions
• Affordable 

Drawbacks

• Not the strongest tattoo numbing cream 
• Some customers complain the scent is too strong 

How It Compares to Others

• Lower lidocaine dose than most numbing creams for tattoos
• Scented 

Expert Tips

You shouldn’t use it in large quantities without consulting a doctor or your tattoo artist. And as this physical therapist says in his video, you should be careful not to ingest any. 

Testimonials

Most customers are happy with BenGay and its numbing effect, praising its fast-action formula and easy application. 

How To Choose The Best Numbing Cream For Tattoos?

Now that you know all about the best tattoo numbing creams in 2022 let’s talk about how to choose the best numbing products for tattooing.

1. Look at the Ingredients

The best tattoo numbing creams should contain lidocaine (preferably 5%) and other natural ingredients to promote healing (Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, etc.).

4% creams can also work well if they contain another numbing agent (benzocaine, benzyl alcohol, etc.).

Creams with a higher than 5% lidocaine concentration are more effective, but they also increase the risk of serious side effects. (8) 

2. Consider Your Skin Type

The numbing cream’s effect depends on the thickness of the skin area you’re applying it to. So, a 5% lidocaine cream is better for thick skin, but 4% is better if you have sensitive skin. 

3. Consider How Long the Tattoo Will Take

Some creams start working in 3-5 minutes and last several hours. Others take around 20 minutes to work and wear off in 30 minutes to an hour.

So, think about how long your tattoo session will last when picking the best numbing cream for tattoos. 

FAQs

Conclusion

What is the best numbing cream for tattoos? As you see, you’ve got plenty of over-the-counter creams with lidocaine you can use to numb yourself before a tattoo

However, if you’re getting a large tattoo and the cream wears off, it will be more painful because the nerves are waking up.  

So, you can also talk to your tattoo artist and get a prescribtion numbing cream for tattoos. These have a stronger effect and guarantee a pain-free tattoo experience.

What do you think about these top numbing creams for tattoos? Which one is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comment section.

Resources:

• 1. Draft Guidance on Lidocaine [Internet]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/psg/Lidocaine_draft_Topical%20patch_RLD%20020612_RC10-18.pdf
• 2. Numbing Creams For Tattoos Are Trending—But Are They Safe? [Internet]. Byrdie. [cited 2022 Oct 19]. Available from: https://www.byrdie.com/painless-tattoo-cream-reviews-5271374
• 3. Wang A, Grushchak S, Kaul S, Lee PK, Feldman J. Toxicity of Infiltrative Lidocaine in Dermatologic Surgery: Are Current Limits Valid? Dermatology Practical & Conceptual [Internet]. 2021;11:e2021120. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8480448/
• 4. nicolesmom02. numbing cream? [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2022 Oct 19]. Available from: https://www.reddit.com/r/tattoo/comments/pqnnz9/numbing_cream/
• 5. HIGHly_intALEXual. Thoughts on numbing lotions? [Internet]. 2019 [cited 2022 Oct 19]. Available from: https://www.reddit.com/r/tattoo/comments/cfdxon/thoughts_on_numbing_lotions/
• 6. tattoosbyserena. Tattoos By Serena [Internet]. Preparing For Your Appointment I recommend fortifying yourself with a meal in advance of your appointment. I also highly recommend 4% lidocaine topical anesthetic cream to take the edge off of the… [cited 2022 Oct 19]. Available from: https://tattoosbyserena.tumblr.com/preparingforyourappointment
• 7. Williams JM, Howe NR. Benzyl alcohol attenuates the pain of lidocaine injections and prolongs anesthesia. The Journal of Dermatologic Surgery and Oncology [Internet]. 1994 [cited 2022 Oct 19];20:730–3. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7962932/
• 8. Lidocaine Can Cause Harmful Effects [Internet]. www.poison.org. Available from: https://www.poison.org/articles/lidocaine-can-cause-harmful-effects-172