If there’s one thing that’s true about tattoos, it’s that they hurt. It’s also true that everyone’s pain tolerance differs, so some feel it more than others. But the pain is always there, and it’s a common concern for beginners. That’s where the best tattoo anesthetic creams come in.
At tktxindonesia.com, we’ve compiled various methods and anesthetics to reduce that sensation. Keep in mind, however, that not all topical anesthetics are recommended for tattoos—some could end up ruining your ink.
Below, we’ll explain what tattoo anesthetics are, which creams are best, and how to use them during the tattoo process. Don’t miss it!
What Are Tattoo Anesthetic Creams?
Anesthetic creams work by numbing the skin where they’re applied, thanks to ingredients like lidocaine and prilocaine. These treatments are used in tattooing and piercing, as well as in certain medical and dental procedures. Want a less stressful, pain-free tattoo experience? Consider using an anesthetic cream. That way, you’ll avoid feeling any discomfort on your skin.
Often, it depends on the body area you choose to tattoo—some spots are naturally more painful than others. It’s best to apply cream to the most sensitive and delicate areas for a more comfortable session.
If you’re looking for the best anesthesia, whether in cream or gel form, you’ve come to the right place. Here you’ll find the most complete information to make the right purchase decision.
However, remember that not all creams are the same—their compositions vary by manufacturer. And of course, not all are suitable for tattooing.
Common consequences of choosing the wrong cream include:
- The active ingredient doesn’t work properly, failing to numb the skin.
- Skin irritation or eczema can make the experience even more painful.
- Ink may not penetrate properly, affecting the final tattoo result.
- Your tattoo artist may refuse to tattoo you if you’ve used an unsuitable product.
Comparison of the Best Tattoo Anesthetic Creams in 2024
As we mentioned, several types of anesthetic creams can reduce tattoo pain. Fortunately, all these topical anesthetics are easy to apply and very affordable.
Below is our compilation of the best tattoo anesthetic creams currently on the market. Take note!
1. TKTX Tattoo Anesthetic Cream
You save 23%
You save 23%
You save 23%
You save 30%
You save 30%
You save 23%
TKTX tattoo anesthetic cream is undoubtedly the most well-known in the tattoo community. Who would choose to suffer when you can reduce pain to some degree?
With anesthetic gels like TKTX, you can lightly numb the skin before your tattoo. The effect starts about 20 minutes after application and can last up to 3 hours.
This small bottle comes in two potency options, offering 35% or 40% pain reduction.
2. Ink-eeze Purple Glide Balm
Ink-eeze Purple Glide uses only essential oils—no chemicals or petroleum derivatives. It was designed by expert tattooers and dermatologists for skin care during and after tattooing.
3. EMLA
EMLA (Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics). Composition: 1 g cream contains 25 mg lidocaine and 25 mg prilocaine, plus carbomer, hydrogenated castor oil, sodium hydroxide, and purified water.
- Presentation: Patches (5 g), aluminum tubes (5, 30 g).
- Onset: 30 min on skin, 2–5 min on mucosa.
- Peak effect: 90–120 min after application.
- Duration: 1–5 hours.
- Metabolism: Hepatic.
- Elimination: Renal.
- Price: ~$16 OTC, ~$8 with prescription.
- Where to buy: Pharmacies.
4. Lambdaline
Composition: 1 g cream contains 40 mg lidocaine, plus purified water, propylene glycol, hydrogenated soy lecithin, benzyl alcohol, polysorbate 80, carbomer 940, tromethamine, and cholesterol.
- Presentation: 5–50 g aluminum tubes.
- Onset: 30 min on skin, 2–5 min on mucosa.
- Peak effect: 90–120 min.
- Duration: 1–5 hours.
- Metabolism: Hepatic.
- Elimination: Renal.
- Price: ~$16 OTC, ~$8 with prescription.
- Where to buy: Pharmacies.
Want a Simple Guide to Using Anesthetic Creams for Pain-Free Tattoos?
Read our step-by-step tutorial here: How to Use Anesthetic Cream for Tattoos
