Best Tattoo Numbing Creams to Take Away the Pain – Stay Numb with TKTX, Emla & More

Think getting a tattoo has to hurt? Think again. With the right numbing cream, your tattoo session doesn’t have to feel like you’re being scraped with barbed wire. Whether you’re going full sleeve or just adding a bit of ink on your ribs (ouch!), using a lidocaine-based tattoo numbing cream can take the sting right out of it. But with so many choices—TKTX, Dr. Numb, Emla, and more—it can be hard to know which one actually works. This guide rounds up the 7 best what numbing cream is best for tattoos picks, so you can sit back, stay numb, and enjoy the art.

What Makes a Tattoo Numbing Cream Effective?

What makes a numbing cream effective?
The most effective tattoo numbing creams contain active ingredients that block or dull pain signals at the skin’s surface. Lidocaine, in a 5% concentration, is the most commonly used and trusted local anaesthetic in these formulations.
Lidocaine works by temporarily stopping sodium from entering the nerve endings in the skin. This blocks the pain signals from reaching the brain during the tattooing process. A quality lidocaine tattoo cream should also include ingredients that soothe the skin and reduce irritation—especially during longer tattoo sessions.
Here are the five most common tattoo numbing cream ingredients and their purposes:

• Lidocaine (5%) – A nerve deadener that blocks pain signals for a strong numbing effect.
• Prilocaine – Works with lidocaine to boost numbing in products like EMLA cream.
• Epinephrine – A vasoconstrictor that reduces bleeding and swelling.
• Aloe Vera – Cools and soothes inflamed or sensitive skin.
• Vitamin E – Supports healing and protects the skin barrier during aftercare.

How do numbing agents work?
There are three types of numbing agents found in tattoo numbing creams:

• Nerve blockers, such as benzocaine, interfere with the transmission of pain signals but don’t completely numb the skin.
• Nerve deadeners, like lidocaine, stop pain signals at the nerve level—these are the most commonly used in topical anaesthetics for tattoos.
• Vasoconstrictors, such as epinephrine, reduce blood flow, helping prolong the numbing effect while minimising swelling and bleeding.
  A numbing cream for tattoos is most effective when it’s applied correctly, in a thick layer, and wrapped to help it fully absorb into the skin. Always follow instructions and never apply to broken skin. For a painless tattoo experience, it’s best to consult with your tattoo artist before applying any product to the tattoo area.

Which Is the Best Tattoo Numbing Cream in the UK Right Now?

What is the best tattoo numbing cream UK artists and clients rely on most?
Dr. Numb is one of the most trusted and widely recommended options. It contains 5% lidocaine, which is the maximum allowed in over-the-counter products in the UK. It delivers a strong numbing effect that lasts up to 2–4 hours, making it ideal for most tattoo appointments, especially for medium-sized designs.
What’s the strongest numbing cream for tattoos sold in the UK?
TKTX, particularly the Gold variant, is one of the strongest available. It contains 7% lidocaine and can last 4–6 hours depending on skin type and how it’s applied. It’s water-based, which helps it absorb into the skin quickly and evenly. Many tattoo artists recommend TKTX for longer tattoo sessions—just avoid applying to broken skin.
Which numbing cream is best for sensitive skin?
Zensa is a leading option for people with sensitive skin. It combines 5% lidocaine with vitamin E to soothe the tattoo area during the tattooing process. It’s free of epinephrine, which can sometimes cause irritation in delicate areas of skin.
Can you get tattoo numbing cream at Boots in the UK?
Yes. EMLA cream is available over the counter at Boots and other UK pharmacies. It contains 2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine. While milder than some alternatives, EMLA’s numbing effect is suitable for short sessions and smaller tattoos. It’s also often used to numb the skin before laser tattoo removal or other needle and laser procedures.
What’s a good all-rounder for tattoo pain relief?
Ebanel Numb 520 is a balanced pick. With 5% lidocaine and soothing ingredients like allantoin, it works well for average tattoo sessions and has fewer potential side effects compared to stronger products.

Tattoo Numbing Cream Reviews: What Users and Artists Say

Which tattoo numbing cream is most recommended by users and tattoo artists?
Dr. Numb.
According to tattoo numbing cream reviews, Dr. Numb consistently ranks at the top. It contains 5% lidocaine, delivering a strong numbing effect that most users say lasts through a standard tattoo session. It’s praised for absorbing well into the skin and not interfering with the tattooing process. Many tattoo artists also recommend it—particularly for clients nervous about their first tattoo or those with low pain tolerance.
What do user reviews say about TKTX?
TKTX is widely reviewed as the strongest numbing cream for tattoos, especially the Gold variant. It contains 7% lidocaine and lasts 4–6 hours. Users love its long-lasting effect, especially during longer tattoo sessions. That said, people with sensitive skin have noted redness or irritation. Tattoo artists have mixed opinions—some avoid it due to changes in skin texture once it’s been applied.
Is there a numbing cream better suited for sensitive skin?
Zensa.
This cream contains 5% lidocaine and is enriched with vitamin E, making it gentler on the skin. It’s free from epinephrine, which can cause irritation in some users. Both users and tattoo artists say it’s ideal for delicate areas and first-timers. It doesn’t interfere with the tattoo needles or ink flow either, which makes it a preferred option for many professional tattoo sessions.
Which cream is known for balanced performance and safety?
Ebanel Numb 520.
This topical anaesthetic contains 5% lidocaine and soothing ingredients like allantoin. It’s often highlighted in tattoo numbing cream Amazon reviews for working quickly and being less likely to cause side effects. Many users apply it for tattoos and even for other procedures involving needles.

1. Dr. Numb

• Pros: Strong numbing effect, absorbs well, ideal for standard tattoo sessions
• Cons: Higher cost than some alternatives

2. TKTX (Gold)

• Pros: Longest-lasting, strong formula for longer tattoo sessions
• Cons: May irritate sensitive skin, texture changes can affect tattooing

3. Zensa

• Pros: Ideal for sensitive skin, contains vitamin E, no epinephrine
• Cons: Slightly shorter duration of numbness

4. Ebanel Numb 520

• Pros: Gentle ingredients, fast-acting, suitable for a range of procedures
• Cons: Not suitable for very long sessions without reapplication

TKTX Numbing Cream Comparison: Gold vs Green vs Yellow

Which is the best TKTX numbing cream for tattoos?
TKTX Gold is the strongest and longest-lasting option.
It contains 7% lidocaine and typically delivers a numbing effect for 4 to 6 hours. It’s a water-based formula, helping it absorb into the skin quickly to numb the area effectively. This makes it ideal for longer tattoo sessions or procedures involving needles, including laser tattoo removal.
What’s the difference between TKTX Yellow vs Green?
The TKTX Yellow version has 6% lidocaine, sitting between the Gold and Green in strength. It’s a more balanced option—providing solid numbing without being overly harsh on sensitive skin. In contrast, TKTX Green contains 5% lidocaine, making it gentler but still effective. It’s often chosen for smaller tattoos or areas where people are concerned about potential side effects.
Do all TKTX creams work the same way?
All TKTX variants use a topical anaesthetic approach, relying on lidocaine to block the pain signals sent from the tattoo area to the brain. The creams are applied in a thick layer, then wrapped to numb the skin fully before the tattooing process begins. While they’re not suitable for applying to broken skin, when used correctly, they can significantly reduce pain and improve the overall tattooing experience.

EMLA Cream for Tattoos: Does It Work?

Does EMLA cream work for tattoos?
Yes—but mostly for smaller tattoos or short sessions.
EMLA cream is a topical anaesthetic that contains 2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine. It’s licensed for use in the UK and widely available in pharmacies, including Boots. It’s often used to numb the skin before minor procedures, such as injections, blood tests, or laser hair removal. When applied correctly, EMLA’s numbing effect can help reduce pain during the tattooing process—but it’s not the best tattoo numbing option for longer tattoo sessions.
Is EMLA strong enough for a full tattoo session?
Not usually.
While EMLA is effective at blocking the pain signals during light procedures, many tattoo artists report that its numbing effect wears off too quickly during a longer tattoo appointment. The cream starts working in about 30 minutes and usually lasts around 1 to 2 hours. That makes it more suited for small tattoos, touch-ups, or patch tests where minimal needle work is involved.
Is EMLA numbing cream safe to use before tattoos?
Yes, when used as directed.
It’s sold over the counter in 5g and 30g tubes, and its licensed status means you’re not dealing with the risks of unlicensed or fake medicines. Still, it should never be applied to broken skin, and you should always read the label or consult with your tattoo artist before applying numbing cream to the tattoo area.
Use EMLA cream if:

• You’re getting a small tattoo or short tattoo session
• You want to patch test numbing creams before your next tattoo
• You have very sensitive skin and need a gentler option for tattooing
  Applying EMLA in a thick layer and wrapping the area helps it absorb into the skin properly. After the cream is removed, the area should be numb enough to make the tattooing experience more manageable for minor work.

How to Apply Tattoo Numbing Cream Properly for Maximum Effect

How to apply numbing cream for tattoos?
Use a five-step process: clean the skin, wear gloves, apply a thick layer, cover it, and wait.
Correct application is what makes tattoo numbing creams effective. Whether you’re using EMLA, TKTX, or another topical numbing cream, it’s important to follow each step carefully to prepare for a painless tattoo session. Here’s how to apply numbing cream for tattoos to get the best numbing effect:

1. Clean the tattoo area thoroughly
   Use mild soap and warm water to clean the skin. Shave the area if needed to remove any hair. Dry it completely before moving to the next step.
2. Wear gloves to avoid absorbing the cream yourself
   Gloves stop the numbing agents from affecting your hands. It’s especially important when applying products containing lidocaine or lidocaine and prilocaine.
3. Apply a thick layer of the numbing cream to the area
   Don’t rub it in. A thick, even layer is needed to allow the active ingredients to absorb into the skin. Most tattoo numbing creams contain 5% lidocaine, which needs time to fully activate.
4. Wrap the area with cling film
   This traps heat and moisture, helping the cream absorb into the skin more effectively. Never use derm bandages unless advised by a professional tattoo artist.
5. Wait 30 to 60 minutes before your tattoo appointment
   The numbing effect usually begins within 15–30 minutes and can last 1–3 hours depending on the product. Remove the cream completely before tattooing starts.

Common mistakes when applying numbing cream:

• Applying to broken skin, which increases risk of irritation or side effects
• Using too little cream, which leads to weak results
• Not wrapping the area, which limits absorption
• Leaving it on too long or reapplying without guidance
• Failing to read the label or patient information leaflet
  Always consult with your tattoo artist before using numbing creams, especially if you’re using a stronger product like TKTX or if you’re prone to sensitive skin. Used properly, these creams can significantly reduce pain during the tattooing process and improve the overall tattooing experience.

How Long Does Tattoo Numbing Cream Last and When to Reapply?

How long does tattoo numbing cream last?
Most tattoo numbing creams last 1 to 2 hours after application.
The duration of the numbing effect depends on the product’s active ingredients, how it’s applied, and where on the body it’s used. Areas with thinner skin, like the ribs or inner arms, absorb topical anaesthetic faster but may also wear off quicker. Thicker areas, such as thighs or shoulders, tend to hold the numbing effect longer.
What tattoo numbing cream lasts longest?
TKTX and The Solution are among the longest lasting tattoo numbing cream options, with effects lasting up to 6–8 hours.
These creams contain higher concentrations of lidocaine and are often water-based, helping them absorb into the skin efficiently. They’re especially useful for longer tattoo sessions, but must be applied correctly—usually in a thick layer, wrapped, and timed carefully before the tattoo appointment begins.
When should numbing cream be reapplied?
Reapplication is sometimes necessary for sessions lasting more than two hours. Always ask your artist before reapplying, as too much lidocaine can increase the risk of potential side effects, especially if the cream is applied to broken skin.
Tattoo numbing effectiveness per area varies as well. Joints, bony areas, and sensitive zones may feel pain sooner despite the cream.
4 of the longest lasting tattoo numbing creams:

• TKTX Gold – 6–8 hours, high-strength lidocaine, best for longer tattoo sessions
• The Solution – Up to 8 hours, used by professional tattoo artists, ideal for full-day work
• Zensa – 2–3 hours, gentler for people with sensitive skin, enriched with vitamin E
• Ebanel Numb 520 – 2–3 hours, fast-acting, suitable for tattoos and laser hair removal
  Always read the patient information leaflet and never apply more than directed. Overuse won’t improve results but can cause issues during the tattooing process.

Is Tattoo Numbing Cream Safe and Are There Any Side Effects?

Is tattoo numbing cream safe?
Yes, when used correctly on unbroken skin and with guidance from a tattoo artist or medical professional.
Tattoo numbing creams are generally safe for most people, especially those that contain lidocaine or a combination of lidocaine and prilocaine, like emla cream. These products are used to numb the tattoo area by blocking the pain signals from the skin’s surface, making the tattooing process more tolerable. However, incorrect use—such as applying to broken skin or using too much—can lead to unwanted effects.
Some safe tattoo numbing cream during long sessions includes products like TKTX, Zensa, and Ebanel Numb 520. These are formulated to numb the skin for extended periods and are considered skin-safe numbing cream for tattoos when applied properly.
What are the potential side effects of tattoo numbing cream?
Side effects can happen, especially if the cream is misused or if the person has sensitive skin. These are the most reported tktx numbing cream side effects and issues from other brands:

• Redness or rash on the tattoo area
• Swelling or irritation, especially if applied to broken skin
• Allergic reaction to active ingredients like lidocaine
• Increased heart rate from vasoconstrictors like epinephrine

Patch testing matters.
Before a tattoo appointment, apply a small amount of the cream to the area you plan to tattoo and wait 24 hours. If no reaction occurs, it’s usually safe to continue. Always read the patient information leaflet, wrap the area properly, and consult with your tattoo artist before applying numbing cream, especially for longer tattoo sessions.
Avoid reapplying without guidance—using numbing creams too often or on damaged skin can increase risks and interfere with the tattooing experience.

Where to Buy Tattoo Numbing Cream in the UK and What It Costs

Where to buy tattoo numbing cream in the UK?
You can buy tattoo numbing cream from Boots, Amazon UK, specialist tattoo suppliers, and official brand websites.
These sources offer a wide range of numbing creams for tattoos, including well-known options like emla, TKTX, and Ebanel Numb 520. Products are available in different sizes, usually between 1–2 oz (30g–60g), and contain numbing agents such as lidocaine or lidocaine and prilocaine, which are used to numb the skin before the tattooing process begins.
Reliable places to buy include:

• Boots UK – Stocks emla cream over the counter; often used for small tattoos or short sessions
• Amazon UK – Offers wide selection and next-day delivery on brands like TKTX and Ebanel Numb 520
• Tattoo supply websites – Trusted by professional tattoo artists; often stock water-based numbing products
• Official brand sites – Best for avoiding unlicensed or fake medicines; good for tattoo numbing cream bulk buy options

What does tattoo numbing cream cost in the UK?
Prices typically range from £10 to £35, depending on the brand, tube size, and strength of the formula. For example:

• emla 30g costs around £10–£15 at Boots
• TKTX ranges between £15–£25 online
• Ebanel Numb 520 is priced between £20–£30
  Next-day delivery is common when ordered online. Always read the label and avoid unlicensed sellers—unlike emla, some creams sold online may not be regulated for safe use during tattoo sessions.

Best Tattoo Numbing Cream for Sensitive Skin or Long Sessions

What is the best tattoo numbing cream for sensitive skin?
Zensa.
Zensa is often recommended as the best tattoo numbing cream for sensitive skin. It contains 5% lidocaine and is formulated with vitamin E, which helps protect the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. Unlike stronger creams, Zensa avoids epinephrine, making it less likely to cause irritation in delicate areas of skin. The formula is gentle but still effective at blocking the pain signals during the tattooing process.
Which is the best tattoo numbing cream for pain during longer tattoo sessions?
TKTX Gold.
TKTX Gold is one of the most popular options for longer tattoo sessions. It contains 7% lidocaine, giving it a stronger numbing effect than many over-the-counter products. The cream is water-based, helping it absorb into the skin more quickly and evenly. When applied in a thick layer and wrapped, it can numb the pain for 4 to 6 hours. That makes it ideal for large tattoos or procedures involving needles, such as laser tattoo removal. It may not be suitable for people with sensitive skin, so always ask your artist before using.
What’s the best tattoo numbing cream for a painless tattoo experience with fewer side effects?
HUSH.
HUSH combines 5% lidocaine with aloe vera in a paraben-free formula. It’s designed to numb the skin for up to 2–3 hours and is often used by professional tattoo artists for clients with low pain tolerance. It’s effective in reducing pain without affecting the tattoo needles or ink flow. HUSH is also a good option for those prone to potential side effects from harsher creams.
Best creams by use case:

• Sensitive skin: Zensa – Gentle formula with vitamin E, no epinephrine
• Pain relief: HUSH – Aloe-based, paraben-free, 2–3 hour numbing effect
• Long sessions: TKTX Gold – 7% lidocaine, lasts 4–6 hours, strong numbing effect
  Always read the patient information leaflet, avoid applying numbing cream to broken skin, and consult with your tattoo artist before your tattoo appointment.

What Tattoo Numbing Cream Do Professionals Use?

What numbing cream do tattooists use?
Dr. Numb, Zensa, and The Solution are the most commonly used by professionals.

Many tattoo artists recommend Dr. Numb because it contains 5% lidocaine, offering a strong, reliable numbing effect for standard sessions without interfering with the tattooing process. Zensa is another top pick, especially for people with sensitive skin—it’s gentle, contains vitamin E, and avoids epinephrine, which can irritate certain areas of skin.

The Solution is often used before longer tattoo sessions. It’s a strong topical anaesthetic designed to numb the skin for up to 6–8 hours—ideal for full-day work or procedures involving needles like laser tattoo removal.

That said, not all tattoo artists approve of using numbing creams. Some avoid them due to how numbed skin can change texture, which may affect how the tattoo needles go in and how ink settles. Others are fine with it—as long as the cream is applied properly, not applied to broken skin, and discussed during the tattoo consult.

Top 3 professional tattoo numbing options:

• Dr. Numb – Trusted by many artists, effective for standard sessions, 5% lidocaine
• Zensa – Great for sensitive skin, no epinephrine, absorbs well
• The Solution – Used during longer tattoo appointments, long-lasting numbing effect

Always consult with your tattoo artist before applying numbing cream to the tattoo area, especially if it’s your next tattoo or you’re unsure how your skin reacts.

Best Budget and Over-the-Counter Tattoo Numbing Creams

What is the best budget tattoo numbing cream?
Bactine.
It contains 2% lidocaine and is one of the most affordable options available. It’s a topical anaesthetic that’s ideal for mild relief during short tattoo sessions, especially for smaller designs. While not the strongest over-the-counter tattoo cream, it helps reduce pain without requiring a prescription. Bactine is often used to numb the skin before needle and laser procedures, including laser tattoo removal and piercings.

Is there a strong over-the-counter tattoo numbing cream in the UK?
Yes, EMLA.
EMLA cream is sold legally as an over-the-counter tattoo numbing cream in the UK. It contains a combination of lidocaine and prilocaine (2.5% each), making it a licensed local anaesthetic. Applied in a thick layer and wrapped, EMLA’s numbing can last 1–2 hours. It’s commonly used for smaller tattoo areas, laser hair removal, and other procedures involving needles. Its regulated status means it avoids the risk of unlicensed or fake medicines.

What is a strong non-prescription tattoo numbing cream with better performance?
Numb Master.
Containing 5% lidocaine, it’s a stronger option that doesn’t require a prescription. It’s fast-absorbing and often used before tattoos or tattoo removal sessions. While it lacks soothing agents like vitamin E, it’s still a go-to for those who want to numb the pain without paying premium prices.

Final Words

Choosing the best numbing cream for tattoos comes down to understanding how numbing creams work, what goes into them, and how they perform under real tattooing conditions. From lidocaine-heavy options like TKTX Gold to gentler choices such as Zensa with added vitamin E, each product offers a different balance of strength and skin sensitivity.

For those considering their next tattoo, a little prep goes a long way. Whether you’re using EMLA 30g, a high-strength tattoo numbing cream, or asking your tattoo artist about professional tattoo options like Dr. Numb, proper application and aftercare are key to a more painless tattoo experience.

Still wondering what numbing cream is best for tattoos? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—but you’re now better equipped to pick the right one for your skin, session length, and pain tolerance.

FAQ

What numbing cream is best for tattoos according to tattoo artists?

Dr. Numb and Zensa are commonly recommended by many tattoo artists. These tattoo numbing creams contain lidocaine and are less likely to alter skin texture during the tattooing process.

What is the strongest tattoo numbing cream in the UK?

TKTX Gold is one of the strongest tattoo numbing creams in the UK, with 7% lidocaine. It provides powerful numbing effect and is used to numb the skin for up to 6 hours.

Does tattoo numbing cream work?

Yes, tattoo numbing creams work by using topical anaesthetics like lidocaine to block the pain signals during the tattooing process. The numbing effect usually lasts 1–3 hours depending on the product.

What tattoo numbing cream can I buy in-store like Boots?

You can buy EMLA numbing cream 30g in Boots UK. It combines lidocaine and prilocaine and is licensed for use as a local anaesthetic to reduce pain during procedures involving needles.

Is TKTX a good numbing cream for tattoos?

TKTX is well-reviewed as a tattoo numbing cream. It’s effective for longer tattoo sessions and comes in variants like Gold, Yellow, and Green, each with different lidocaine levels for personalised numbing effect.

How does EMLA 30g cream help with tattoos?

EMLA’s numbing effect comes from its active ingredients, lidocaine and prilocaine. It’s used to numb the skin before tattooing and is especially helpful for people with sensitive skin or for smaller tattoo areas.

How long does numbing cream last during a tattoo session?

Most tattoo numbing creams last 1–2 hours. Stronger creams like TKTX can last up to 6 hours, helping reduce pain throughout longer tattoo sessions without constant reapplication.

Can I use numbing creams for tattoo removal or laser hair removal?

Yes, topical numbing creams are routinely used before procedures involving needles or lasers, like laser tattoo removal or laser hair removal, to numb the area and reduce pain signals.

Are there any potential side effects of tattoo numbing creams?

Yes, potential side effects include redness, irritation, or allergic reaction — especially if applied to broken skin. Always read the label and consider a patch test before applying to the tattoo area.

What numbing cream works best for people with sensitive skin?

Zensa and HUSH are among the best tattoo numbing creams for sensitive skin. They include vitamin E and exclude harsh ingredients, making them gentler on delicate areas of skin.

Is it safe to apply numbing cream yourself before a tattoo appointment?

Yes, but you should consult with your tattoo artist first. Overusing anaesthetic creams or applying them incorrectly can impact the tattooing experience or cause unwanted skin reactions.

Can numbing cream help with a painless tattoo?

While no tattoo is completely painless, using numbing cream can significantly reduce pain during the tattoo session. The numbing effect may vary based on your skin type and where the cream is applied.

Should I use aftercare products following a session with numbing cream?

Yes, aftercare is essential whether you used numbing cream or not. Look for aftercare products that soothe the skin, help with healing, and are free from alcohol and harsh chemicals.

Where can I buy numbing cream online in the UK?

You can buy tattoo numbing cream online in the UK through Amazon, official brand sites, and tattoo supply stores. Always verify the product to avoid unlicensed or fake medicines.

How do I apply numbing cream before a tattoo?

Clean the skin, apply a thick layer of the cream for tattoos, cover with cling film, and wait 30–60 minutes for absorption. Remove the wrap just before your tattoo appointment begins.