February 15, 2026
February 15, 2026
February 15, 2026
Pain Levels & Numbing Cream: What You Need to Know.
Does Micro-Realism hurt less than traditional tattoos? And should you use numbing cream? The answers might surprise you.
Does Micro-Realism hurt less than traditional tattoos? And should you use numbing cream? The answers might surprise you.
One of the most frequently asked questions is: 'Does single needle hurt more than traditional tattoos?' Surprisingly, the answer is often no—the sensation is sharper but less traumatic. However, many clients make the critical mistake of applying over-the-counter numbing cream before their appointment without approval. Read this to understand why pre-numbing can ruin your skin texture and compromise the final quality of your tattoo.
Single Needle vs. Traditional Pain
Good news: Micro-Realism and Fine Line styles generally hurt less than traditional bold tattoos. We use smaller needle configurations (often just 1 needle), which causes less trauma to the skin than large shader magnums. The sensation is often described as a "hot scratch" rather than a deep bruise.
The Problem with Numbing Cream Do not apply numbing cream without asking first.
Here is why:
Texture Change: Creams can make the skin rubbery or spongy, making it harder to execute precise fine lines.
Short Duration: Most creams last 45-60 minutes. When it wears off, the pain hits all at once (shock to the system), which is often worse than the gradual pain of tattooing.
When We Use It
I carry specific, high-quality numbing agents (sprays/gels) that can be used during the process once the skin is open, if absolutely necessary. Trust the process; the pain is manageable.
One of the most frequently asked questions is: 'Does single needle hurt more than traditional tattoos?' Surprisingly, the answer is often no—the sensation is sharper but less traumatic. However, many clients make the critical mistake of applying over-the-counter numbing cream before their appointment without approval. Read this to understand why pre-numbing can ruin your skin texture and compromise the final quality of your tattoo.
Single Needle vs. Traditional Pain
Good news: Micro-Realism and Fine Line styles generally hurt less than traditional bold tattoos. We use smaller needle configurations (often just 1 needle), which causes less trauma to the skin than large shader magnums. The sensation is often described as a "hot scratch" rather than a deep bruise.
The Problem with Numbing Cream Do not apply numbing cream without asking first.
Here is why:
Texture Change: Creams can make the skin rubbery or spongy, making it harder to execute precise fine lines.
Short Duration: Most creams last 45-60 minutes. When it wears off, the pain hits all at once (shock to the system), which is often worse than the gradual pain of tattooing.
When We Use It
I carry specific, high-quality numbing agents (sprays/gels) that can be used during the process once the skin is open, if absolutely necessary. Trust the process; the pain is manageable.
