Lidocaine, a topical anesthetic, can be used to manage pain before a tattoo. The substance works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the skin, which can make the tattooing process more comfortable for the client. However, its application is not without potential complications that affect both the safety of the user and the quality of the final artwork.
How Lidocaine Affects the Skin and Tattooing Process
Lidocaine functions as a local anesthetic by interfering with the transmission of pain signals to the brain. The compound binds to sodium channels on nerve cells, temporarily halting the influx of sodium ions required to propagate the nerve impulse. This effectively numbs the treated area, reducing the sharp sensation of the tattoo needle to a dull pressure or vibration. This numbing effect is temporary, lasting between 30 minutes and a few hours, depending on the concentration and application method.
Lidocaine is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it restricts blood flow to the area. This restriction can cause the skin to become swollen, firm, or have a rubbery texture, making it more difficult for the artist to deposit the ink evenly and accurately. Furthermore, if a non-water-based cream is used, the greasy residue can interfere with the stencil application and the needle’s traction, potentially compromising the quality of the tattoo.
Safety Guidelines for Topical Application
Over-the-counter lidocaine creams should generally not exceed a 5% concentration. The FDA specifically recommends avoiding topical pain relief products with more than 4% lidocaine when used over large areas. The product must only be applied to healthy, unbroken skin, as application to irritated or broken skin increases the risk of systemic absorption.
The cream should be applied in a thick, even layer approximately 60 to 90 minutes before the scheduled tattoo session to allow for sufficient penetration. Covering the cream with plastic wrap (occlusion) significantly increases the risk of systemic absorption and is advised against by the FDA. Before the artist begins, the cream must be completely wiped away and the area cleaned to avoid residue interference. It is also recommended to perform a patch test 24 hours beforehand to check for localized allergic reactions.
Potential Drawbacks and Risks
The most severe risk associated with lidocaine cream use is systemic toxicity, which occurs when too much of the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream. This is a concern when the cream is applied over a large surface area, used for prolonged periods, or wrapped under a dressing. Symptoms can include central nervous system effects such as dizziness, confusion, ringing in the ears, and seizures. In rare, extreme cases, respiratory depression, coma, or cardiovascular complications like irregular heartbeat or cardiac arrest are possible.
Localized reactions can occur, including temporary redness, swelling, or irritation at the application site. The altered skin texture caused by the numbing cream may negatively impact the initial healing process, though evidence remains mixed. Furthermore, the numbing effect can mask the body’s natural pain signals. This might lead a client to tolerate a longer session, potentially causing more trauma to the skin and increasing discomfort once the effect wears off.