Tattoo Numbing Cream Side Effects: What to Expect and How to Stay Safe

Numbing creams are generally safe when used as directed on intact skin. This guide covers what side effects can occur, how to minimise risk, and when to stop using and seek advice.

Common, Minor Side Effects

These are normal responses that typically resolve within a few hours of removing the cream:

• !Mild redness at the application site
• !Slight tingling or itching during application
• !Temporary skin paleness (blanching) in the numbed area
• !Very mild swelling in sensitive skin types

When to Stop and Seek Advice

Remove the cream immediately and do not continue if you experience:

• ✕Intense burning or stinging that worsens over time
• ✕Significant swelling or hives
• ✕Difficulty breathing (rare, but a sign of systemic reaction)
• ✕Dizziness, nausea or heart palpitations
• ✕Skin blistering

Who Should Not Use Numbing Cream

• →Anyone with a known allergy to lidocaine, prilocaine or similar local anaesthetics
• →Pregnant or breastfeeding women (consult your GP first)
• →Children under 18 without medical supervision
• →Anyone with open wounds, infections or compromised skin in the target area
• →Anyone with certain heart conditions (lidocaine can affect cardiac rhythm at high doses)

Minimising Risk: Best Practices

• ✓Always do a patch test 24 hours before first use
• ✓Never exceed the recommended application time
• ✓Never apply to more than 600 square centimetres at once
• ✓Keep away from eyes, mouth and mucous membranes
• ✓Use the Green formula if you have sensitive or reactive skin