Best Tattoo Numbing Creams of 2026

"I was seriously amazed by how well this numbing cream worked for my DIY Brazilian sugaring. It made the process so much more bearable and I barely used any of the product. I appreciated the helpful tips from other customers—I used a plastic bag to cover the area and applied two coats. I was numb for a solid 40 minutes, and the pain was nothing compared to previous attempts without it. Considering the price and how little you need, I’ll definitely keep buying this for future sessions!"

"As someone with a lot of tattoos, I was skeptical about numbing creams, but this one really impressed me. I used it before a long tattoo session and was able to sit for hours with minimal discomfort. The cream didn’t interfere with the tattoo ink at all and there was no greasy mess. For the price, it’s a great deal, especially compared to more expensive brands. I’ll definitely be using this again for future tattoos."

"I have a high pain threshold everywhere except for waxing my lower region, and this cream made a huge difference for my Brazilian wax. There was a little bit of stinging right after pulling the strip, but almost zero pain after that. The numbness lasted most of the session, and the small container goes a long way. I’ll be buying it again because it’s saved me so much discomfort."

"I was genuinely impressed by how this cream kept me comfortable through a detailed three-hour tattoo session—I barely felt anything until the very end. It’s definitely something I’ll use again!"

"After using this for my knee and shin tattoo, I stayed totally numb for four hours out of a seven-hour session. The pain was minimal for most of it, making the whole process ten times easier on my body. I highly recommend giving it a try!"

"I applied a thick layer before my side stomach/rib tattoo, but unfortunately, it didn’t numb the area at all for me. I still felt every bit of the tattoo, so I wouldn’t recommend it for especially painful spots like the ribs."

"I purchased this primarily to remove a small, tough keratin cyst and was honestly surprised by how well it worked. After letting it sit for about 30-45 minutes, the area was completely numb—no pain at all, just a little bit of pressure. If it works this well for small skin procedures, I'm confident it'll perform for tattoos, too. I'm just not sure exactly how long the numbness lasts—maybe 3-8 hours?"

"This numbing cream did a fantastic job for me. I applied it an hour before my session and wrapped the area securely. I was so comfortable, I nearly fell asleep during the process! That's how effective it was—highly recommend!"

"I tried this cream after my go-to brand was discontinued, but unfortunately, the 4% lidocaine just wasn't strong enough for me. Even after leaving it on much longer than directed, I didn't get the numbing effect I wanted. On the plus side, I did appreciate that it didn't have a strong odor, unlike other creams I've tried."

"For me, this cream numbs the area really well if I apply a thick layer and wrap it with plastic wrap before my tattoo session. It makes a big difference in comfort, letting me sit through longer sessions without needing breaks. The cream is easy to use, doesn’t irritate my skin, and doesn’t smell bad. I’ll definitely rely on this again for future tattoos."

"After using this for about 40 minutes, my skin was totally numb. This stuff is a lifesaver if you don’t tolerate pain well or have a big tattoo planned. Highly recommend to anyone in the same boat!"

"I’ve tried plenty of numbing creams, but this one is by far the best. I was able to sit through five and a half hours with zero pain. Nothing else has worked as well for me."

"I was honestly skeptical about how much difference this would make for my DIY Brazilian, but this numbing cream made a world of difference. I barely used 1/8 of the jar and was totally numb for most of the procedure. It’s not 100% pain-free, but compared to my first two attempts, it’s a miracle! I’ll definitely keep buying this for future sugaring and waxing."

"When I started my full back tattoo, I didn’t expect much from a numbing cream, but after applying this and covering with plastic wrap, I was almost completely numb and could sit for the entire session pain-free. The container is small, but a little goes a long way. For the price, it’s absolutely worth it."

"I used this cream for a Brazilian wax and I’m really sensitive in that area, but the discomfort was minimal and only lasted a few seconds after pulling the strip. While the numbing didn’t last through my whole session, I still think it’s a great value and will last for multiple uses."

"I've been using this lotion every day since I got my latest tattoo, and it keeps my skin incredibly hydrated and my tattoo looking almost brand new, even a year later. The formula is heavier than most lotions, but that's exactly what my mature skin needs, especially living in a dry climate. It takes a minute to rub in, but it stays put and keeps my hands soft all night. Honestly, it's not just great for tattoos—it's become my go-to moisturizer."

"My tattoo artist recommended this brand, and I'm so glad I tried it. It absorbs quickly, doesn't leave any sticky residue, and makes my tattoos noticeably brighter. I have pretty sensitive skin, but I've never had a reaction to this lotion. At first the scent was a bit different, but now I've grown to like it. The bottle lasted me months with daily use, totally worth it."

"I love how this lotion heals my new tattoos and keeps my older ones looking clear and defined. The pump design is super convenient and the coconut smell is pleasant—though I know not everyone will love it. I even use it on scars and would definitely buy it again."

"I've tried a lot of aftercare products, but this one is hands down the best for my tattoos. It completely stopped peeling on my latest piece and made the itching almost nonexistent. I also appreciate that the ingredients are gentle on my sensitive skin and everything smells great. I won’t go back to Aquaphor."

"The cooling effect of this gel during the healing process made a huge difference for my full arm tattoo. I love that it absorbs quickly and doesn't make my tattoos sticky or catch on clothes like other products. My ink looks so much more vibrant, and I’ve noticed a lot less flaking and itching than before."

"While the product works really well for moisturizing and soothing new tattoos, the packaging frustrates me. The one-way valve makes it hard to control the amount—sometimes too much comes out and it can get sticky, especially if you wear tight clothing over your tattoo. Still, the healing benefits are great once you figure out how to dispense it."

"As someone with several tattoos, I find the stick format incredibly easy to use, especially for travel or quick touch-ups. It keeps my skin moisturized without any greasy residue, and even with sensitive skin, I experience no irritation or breakouts. The packaging is stylish and fun, making my tattoo aftercare routine something I actually look forward to!"

"For me, this tattoo balm is a true game changer in aftercare. The mess-free stick design means I can apply it without worrying about staining clothes or getting my hands greasy. It absorbs quickly, calms itching, and noticeably reduces redness. I’m always cautious with new tattoos, but this balm makes the healing process much more comfortable and hassle-free. Highly recommend!"

"I’ve tried pricier brands, but this balm works just as well, if not better, and the roll-on applicator is a big plus. My tattoos stay vibrant and well-moisturized through the healing process, and the scent is mild and pleasant. For its price and performance, it’s a staple in my tattoo care routine."

"I've tried plenty of aftercare products, but nothing compares to Hustle Butter. It soothes and hydrates instantly, never leaving my skin greasy or sticky. My tattoos healed beautifully, and even my older ink looks rejuvenated and more vibrant. The all-natural ingredients and subtle scent make it a joy to use, and a little goes a long way."

"As someone with sensitive, thin skin, I’ve struggled to heal tattoos—until I found Hustle Butter. My tattoos started healing rapidly within days, with no redness or itching, and even stubborn spots finally smoothed out. The scent is gentle and clean, and it keeps both new and old tattoos looking fresh all day. I won’t use anything else."

"Hustle Butter is my go-to aftercare balm for both new and older tattoos. The vegan, petroleum-free formula absorbs quickly, keeps my skin moisturized without any sticky residue, and helps my tattoos heal with less irritation. Older tattoos look brighter, and the light scent is just right. Highly recommended for anyone serious about tattoo care."

"From the first application, I was impressed by the smooth texture and how well this ointment absorbs without feeling greasy. My tattoo healed quickly, the colors look more vibrant, and I love that it's both vegan and cruelty-free. The light scent is pleasant too. I'll definitely be buying this again."

"As someone who works in a tattoo shop and struggles with frequent allergies, this ointment has been a game-changer. The amazing scent, easy application, and gentle formula mean I no longer have to worry about reactions. It's truly helped me in a big way and I plan to keep using it!"

"The INK-EEZE Purple Tattoo Ointment is a standout for me as both an artist and an enthusiast. Its petroleum-free, cruelty-free formula and soothing lavender scent set it apart. Not only did it speed up healing, but it also boosted the vibrancy of my tattoos. The large size is also a plus, making it a cost-effective choice. Highly recommended for anyone serious about tattoo aftercare!"