Should You Use Tattoo Numbing Cream?

Men's Journal creator Jake The Viking discusses the pros and cons of tattoo numbing cream.

Transcript

00:00 So you're getting a new tattoo and you're asking yourself, "Should I use numbing cream?"

00:04 Thousands of people are asking that very question even now, so here are some pros and cons on

00:08 using numbing cream on your next tattoo.

00:11 Let's start with the pros and the obvious one, reduced pain.

00:14 Now just because you're using numbing cream doesn't mean all the pain will be gone, but

00:17 it will be significantly reduced, which is always a plus.

00:20 You're also going to be getting a faster tattoo process as well as increased safety.

00:24 Now for the cons, and there's a couple.

00:26 First of all, you could get an allergic reaction to the numbing cream, so make sure you check

00:28 the ingredients to make sure you're not allergic to any of them.

00:30 Also run the risk of overuse, which could lead to the desensify...

00:34 Desensify...

00:35 What?

00:36 Desensit...

00:37 Desensitization of the area.

00:39 That's a tough word.

00:40 Numbing cream could also interfere with the healing process, making it take longer or

00:43 not allowing the tattoo to heal properly.

00:45 It could also have a negative effect on the overall tattoo quality, as well as increase

00:48 the risk of infection.

00:49 And even after all of this, if you still can't decide, simply ask your artist and get their

00:53 professional advice.

00:54 Me personally, numb me up, because that shit hurts.