NUMBING PRODUCTS GUIDE

The Oregon Health Authority recently clarified that licensed tattooers are not allowed to provide or apply numbing products during tattoo sessions—but you (the client) are still able to bring and apply them yourself.

Throughout my tattooing career, I’ve used numbing products during my sessions. This has been predominantly for your comfort—but honestly for mine as well, since inflicting pain has always been the hardest part of tattooing for me.

If you’d like to continue using numbing products in our sessions, I fully support that—you’ll just need to bring and apply them yourself. Here are some helpful guidelines:

*Pre Numbing Cream (Before Your Appointment)*

These products are applied at home prior to your appointment and can provide numbing during the early stages of your tattoo.

If you choose to use one, follow the manufacturers application instructions to the letter. Typically the instructions are as follows:

  • Apply a thick, opaque layer over the entire tattoo area

  • Cover with plastic wrap

  • Leave on for no longer 60–90 minutes.

Look for lidocaine-based creams (commonly available in 4% concentrations) that are designed to be used under occlusion.

Some clients choose tattoo-specific numbing creams such as Tattoo Numbing Cream Co Signature Tattoo Numbing Cream, though many options are available and can vary significantly in strength and how they affect the skin. Tattoo-specific products tend to prioritize ingredients better suited to the tattoo process than those intended for burn or itch relief.

(For reference, you can view an example here: Pre Numbing Cream)

*Mid-Session Numbing Spray (During Your Tattoo)*

These products are used once the skin is already open and can help reduce discomfort as the session progresses.

If you choose to bring one:

  • It must be a spray (not a cream or ointment)

  • Do not touch or apply anything directly with your bare hand to the tattooed area

  • I’ll let you know when it makes sense within the tattoo process to use it

Some clients choose sprays such as Reform Numbing Spray or similar lidocaine-based sprays designed for use on open skin. Tattoo-specific products tend to prioritize ingredients that are better suited to the tattoo process, whereas antiseptic pain relief products (often alcohol-based) can sting, and sunburn relief products (often containing menthol) can also sting.

(For reference, you can view an example here: Numbing Spray)

When ordering your products, please do so far enough in advance to allow for fulfillment and shipping times. Depending on the manufacturer, some products may take up to four weeks to arrive at your door.

The Law

In a memo dated March 25th, 2026, the Oregon Health Authority’s Board of Electrologists and Body Art Practitioners clarified that the administration or application of topical anesthesia by a licensed tattoo artist is not within the scope of practice of a tattoo license.

If a licensee is found in violation, they may face sanctions including civil penalties, suspension or revocation of their license, and potential criminal charges.

However, the Board also clarified that the self-administration of over-the-counter topical anesthetics by a client is not regulated.

A Note on Safety

Topical anesthetics work by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the skin. When used in large amounts, over large areas, or under plastic wrap, more of the product can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

For this reason, it’s important to:

  • Follow product instructions carefully

  • Avoid excessive amounts

  • Avoid long durations of skin contact

  • Avoid applying over very large areas at once

  • Apply a small amount to see how your skin reacts far in advance of your appointment

If you have any concerns, sensitivities, or underlying health conditions, consider consulting a medical professional before use.

Important Safety & Responsibility Notice

All numbing products are optional and are not required for a successful tattoo.

If you choose to use them, you are solely responsible for selecting, purchasing, and applying these products.

I do not provide or apply any numbing products, and I cannot guarantee how your skin will react to them. Individual responses vary and may include reduced effectiveness, irritation, swelling, or other unexpected reactions that can affect the tattoo process or outcome.

By choosing to use a numbing product, you acknowledge that you are doing so at your own discretion and risk.

As always, I’m here to make your tattoo experience as smooth and comfortable as possible within the guidelines I’m required to follow. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.