The idea of using a muscle relaxer before a tattoo session often arises from the desire to minimize pain and prevent involuntary muscle twitching during the long process. Muscle relaxers are prescription medications sometimes believed to be a simple solution for managing the discomfort of being tattooed. This approach, however, overlooks the fundamental difference between the pain of a muscle spasm and the superficial irritation caused by a needle repeatedly puncturing the skin. Understanding the mechanism of these medications, their associated risks, and safer alternatives is important.
How Muscle Relaxers Affect the Body During Tattooing
Prescription muscle relaxers, such as cyclobenzaprine or carisoprodol, are primarily prescribed for the short-term relief of acute musculoskeletal spasms. These medications work by acting centrally on the nervous system to decrease the heightened motor activity that causes muscle spasms. Cyclobenzaprine modulates nerve signals, which results in a reduction of muscle tension.
The pain experienced during a tattoo is a superficial sensation caused by the needle repeatedly penetrating the epidermis and depositing ink into the dermis. This process triggers pain receptors in the skin, which send signals to the brain. Since muscle relaxers are designed to target deep skeletal muscle spasms, they have limited direct effect on this surface-level nerve irritation.
While these medications may help a person physically relax by causing sedation, they do not block the pain signals originating from the skin trauma. The primary effect is indirect, where a reduction in overall muscle tension may lessen the tendency to tense up against the pain. Muscle relaxers are not formulated to alleviate the specific discomfort associated with the mechanical trauma of tattooing.
Significant Safety Concerns and Practical Drawbacks
Taking a muscle relaxer before a tattoo session presents safety concerns and practical drawbacks that often outweigh any perceived benefit. A common side effect is substantial drowsiness, dizziness, and general impairment of cognitive function. This sedation makes it difficult for a client to hold a position steadily, potentially leading to involuntary shifts or movements that can compromise the artwork or cause injury.
The impaired judgment and alertness make it challenging to give informed consent or accurately communicate pain levels to the artist. Muscle relaxers can also depress the central nervous system. Combining them with other substances, such as alcohol or certain over-the-counter pain relievers, can intensify this effect. Using these prescription-only medications without medical guidance for an elective procedure is not recommended.
Many professional tattoo artists will refuse to work on a client who appears to be under the influence of any sedating substance due to liability issues and the risk of poor results. The combination of impaired movement and reduced ability to communicate makes the session more stressful and less predictable for both the client and the artist. Carisoprodol is also a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence.
Alternative Methods for Managing Discomfort and Movement
Safer and more effective strategies exist to manage discomfort and encourage stillness during a tattoo session. Simple preparation, like ensuring a full night’s sleep and eating a balanced meal beforehand, helps stabilize blood sugar and raise the pain threshold. Staying well-hydrated is also beneficial, as dehydrated skin can be more sensitive to the needle.
Non-prescription options include over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, taken before the session to manage general soreness. It is advised to avoid Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen, as these medications can thin the blood and prolong bleeding. Another option is the application of topical anesthetic creams, which typically contain lidocaine, to temporarily numb the skin surface.
These numbing creams should only be used after consulting with the tattoo artist to ensure they do not negatively affect the skin’s texture or the ink application. Behavioral techniques, such as practicing deep, controlled breathing and engaging in distraction methods, can reduce anxiety and pain perception. Taking short, scheduled breaks can provide a physical and mental reset during long sessions.