No Pain Tattoo was founded in 2024 by Michael Hollman in Portland, Oregon. We are a team of tattoo enthusiasts and professionals dedicated to changing the narrative that tattoos have to hurt. (See: [About Us])
(See: About Us)

Absolutely. We believe in ethical ink. All our numbing products are 100% vegan and never tested on animals.

Every No Pain product is proudly designed in-house by our experienced team in Portland, Oregon. The active ingredients are exported from the USA and Europe to our  trusted partner facility where they are produced to the highest standards of quality and safety. We use only the best ingredients that we trust on ourselves and our clients daily.

Yes! We love partnering with artists. If you are a shop owner looking to carry the best tattoo numbing cream, please visit our wholesale page or contact us directly.

Yes, we are proudly American-owned and operated out of the Pacific Northwest. This means you can contact us and expect a prompt response about questions or concerns. Even if you just want to chat about tattoos, we will happily pick up the phone.

While our products are therapeutic, policies vary by provider. Check with your insurance administrator to see if topical anesthetics or wound care are covered.

You can reach us via email at contact@xpaintattoo.com, call/text/WhatsApp +1 503- 610-0963 or through our contact form. We aim to respond within 24 hours.

Yes. Our Numbing Cream uses Lidocaine to block nerve signals in the skin. When applied correctly with heat and occlusion (wrapping in plastic wrap), it provides profound relief.

No. Our formula is water-based. Unlike oil-based creams, it does not leave a greasy residue that repels ink or clogs needles. It wipes away clean, leaving the skin texture perfect for tattooing. The finished tattoo will be the same as if you hadn’t used numbing cream.

Not ours. Lower-quality creams can change skin texture, making it hard for the artist. No Pain Tattoo Numbing Cream is formulated to keep skin supple and workable.

On average, you can expect 2-4 hours of relief. This depends on your skin type, the location on the body, and how well you prepped.

Yes, but for large areas, we recommend working in sections or using our Numbing Spray to maintain comfort as the session progresses.

No. Try not exceed the recommended application time (typically 90-120 minutes). Leaving lidocaine on for too long can cause skin irritation or redness.

You can, but it is not recommended. Numbing cream helps with pain, but alcohol thins your blood. Excessive bleeding pushes ink out of the skin. Stay sober and hydrated. Avoiding alcohol will also make your healing much quicker and easier. Do not drink for 48 hours before your appointment, and 24 hours after. (Read: Can You Drink Alcohol After Getting A Tattoo?)

Caffeine can increase anxiety and blood pressure, which may heighten pain sensitivity. It won’t "deactivate" the cream, but it’s best to limit caffeine before a session. (Read: Does Drinking Caffeine Really Make Tattoos Hurt More?)

The "occlusion" method (wrapping) traps body heat and prevents the cream from drying out. This heat opens your pores, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate deep into the dermis where the nerves are.

We do not recommend external heat sources like heating pads, as they can cause the skin to absorb too much lidocaine too quickly. Your natural body heat under the plastic wrap is sufficient.

The cream will still work, but hair and dead skin cells can block absorption. For the best results, the area should be cleaned, shaved and/or lightly exfoliated before application.

Most artists prefer you arrive pre-numbed because it takes 90-120 minutes to fully kick in. Applying it at the shop means sitting in the lobby for an hour and a half. Apply it at home before you leave!

Yes, but always do a patch test 24 hours prior. Apply a small amount to your inner bicep to ensure you don't have a lidocaine allergy.

Yes! Laser removal is much more painful than getting a tattoo. Our cream is highly effective for laser removal pain relief.

Yes, it works for piercings, waxing, and microblading as well.

Yes. These are "high pain" areas where our cream is most popular. (See: Tattoo Placement 101: An Honest Guide to Pain & Healing

Mild redness is a common side effect of increased blood flow to the area (vasodilation) and subsides when the cream wears off.

Yes. Because you don't feel the sharp sting, your muscles are less likely to spasm or twitch, helping your artist pull straighter lines.

Cream is for unbroken skin (before you start). Spray is for broken skin (during the session). These products are designed to work well together for longer sessions. (See: Numbing Products Bundle)

No. The spray is formulated to absorb instantly into open skin. It will not be effective if sprayed on top of unbroken skin before the needles start. Complete the outline at a minimum before using the Numbing Spray.

It works almost instantly once sprayed on broken skin. For maximum effect, cover with plastic wrap and give it 5-10 minutes, and you are ready to go again. Subsequent applications do not require to cover the area. Simply spray and continue.

Yes! This is the best strategy. Use the cream to start, and use the spray to touch up sensitive spots or extend the session if the cream wears off.

The Final Mile Gel is a thicker mid-session anesthetic. It stays in place better than spray for specific, stubborn areas that need extra attention during the shading or coloring phase. NOTE: It takes longer to work than the spray. After applying, It will need to be covered with plastic wrap for 10-20 minutes to reduce swelling and provide numbing.

You may feel a very brief sensation, but it is followed immediately by relief.

Technically yes, but it is designed as a booster. For the deepest numbness, start with the cream.

No. It is safe for all tattoo styles, including color realism, black and grey, and fine line.

You can use it comfortably 2-3 times during an hour. Excessive use isn't dangerous but isn't usually necessary.

If using a standard bandage, leave it on overnight and wash immediately in the morning. If using a "second skin" (Saniderm), follow your artist's advice. (See: How Long Should You Leave the Initial Bandage on Your Tattoo? The Definitive Guide)

Use our Cleansing Foam. It is antibacterial and fragrance-free. Do NOT use bar soap (harbors bacteria) or scented body wash (irritates the wound).

That is plasma and excess ink. It is totally normal. Wash it off gently so it doesn't dry into thick scabs. (See: Why Is My Tattoo Still Oozing After 3 Days? A Guide to the Weeping Phase)

Generally, no. Tattoos need oxygen to heal. Unless you work in a very dirty environment, let it breathe after the first wash.

No! Cloth towels hold bacteria. Always use a clean paper towel to pat it dry.

Inflammation is normal for the first 24-48 hours. If it remains hot and red after 3 days, consult a doctor as it could be an infection. (See: Is My Tattoo Infected or Just Irritated? How to Tell the Difference)

No. Neosporin is too thick and can suffocate the tattoo, and many people have allergic reactions to it. Stick to breathable tattoo balms.

Try not to. If you must, wear loose clean clothing to prevent it from sticking to your sheets. (See: Is It Okay to Sleep Directly on Your New Tattoo?)

Do not rip it off! Take the sheet into the shower with you and wet it with lukewarm water until it falls off naturally. (See: Help! My Tattoo is Stuck to My Sheets! What Do I Do?)

The Soothing Gel is a hydrator designed for the angry, red phase (days 1-3). It cools the skin and reduces inflammation. Switch to the Balm when the peeling starts.

Yes, anti-inflammatories can help with post-tattoo swelling and discomfort.

Yes. The "ink sac" (fluid buildup) makes it look blurry. The tattoo underneath is fine.

Pull it slowly under warm running water. Do not rip it off like a band-aid. (See: How to Properly Remove an Adhesive Tattoo Bandage (like Saniderm))

Usually around day 4 or 5. It will look like a sunburn peeling.

Do not scratch! Slap it gently or apply our Soothing Gel to calm the itch. Scratching pulls out ink. (See: How to Stop a New Tattoo From Itching: A Survival Guide)

This is the "silver skin" phase. New skin is growing over the ink. It will brighten up once fully healed (around 4-6 weeks). (See: What Does the "Silver Skin" Phase of Healing Mean?)

We advise against it. Petroleum products trap bacteria and clog pores. Use our breathable Aftercare Balm instead. (See: Can You Use Vaseline or Aquaphor on a New Tattoo?)

We recommend to wait at least 48 hours. Sweat contains bacteria. If you do go, keep the tattoo covered with loose breathable clothing (cotton) and wash immediately after. (See: How Long Do You Have to Wait to Work Out After a Tattoo?)

No pools, oceans, or hot tubs for at least 3 weeks. Submerging a tattoo can cause infection and fade ink. (See: When Can You Go Swimming After Getting a New Tattoo?)

Absolutely not. UV rays destroy fresh tattoo ink. Keep it covered. (See: Can You Go Tanning After Getting a Tattoo? (The Answer is a Hard No))

Yes! Sun is the #1 enemy of tattoos. Once healed, use SPF 30 or greater daily to prevent fading.

No. Wait until the skin is perfectly smooth and fully healed (usually 4 weeks). (See: Can You Shave Over a Healing Tattoo? A Guide to Timing and Technique)

You may be over-moisturizing. Stop using balm for a day and let it dry out. Do not pop the pimples. (See: What to Do if You Get Pimples or a Rash on Your New Tattoo)

2-3 times a day is plenty. Apply a very thin layer. The tattoo should not look wet.

Yes! Our Aftercare Balm brightens up older ink by hydrating the skin.

Heavy scabs usually mean the area got too dry or was overworked. Do not pick them. Keep them lightly moisturized with the balm, drink lots of water, and avoid alcohol and caffeine as much as possible. (See: When Do Tattoos Typically Start Scabbing?)

No. Tight clothes cause friction and can rip off scabs. Wear loose, breathable cotton. (See: What's the Best Clothing to Wear Over a New Tattoo?)

Signs of infection include green/yellow pus, extreme heat, spreading redness, and fever. If you see these, see a doctor immediately. (See: How Do You Know If Your Tattoo is Infected? 5 Red Flags to Watch For)

We use Lidocaine, a clinically proven local anesthetic. (See: Does Lidocaine Work for Tattoos? The Science Explained)

No. Our Aftercare Balm is petroleum-free to prevent clogged pores.

No. Lanolin (from sheep wool) is a common allergen. We are vegan and use plant-based alternatives.

Our products are fragrance-free. Any scent comes from natural ingredients like Shea Butter or Tea Tree Oil.

Yes. We do not use parabens or harsh preservatives.

Yes, it is gentle enough for facial use and great for healing microblading or permanent makeup.

Yes, along with other botanical calmers to reduce the "sunburn" feeling.

Unopened: 2 years. Opened: We recommend using within 12 months.

We don't recommend sharing aftercare products due to the risk of cross-contamination on open wounds.

Yes, we strive to use eco-friendly and recyclable packaging materials.

Standard shipping is 3-5 business days. Expedited options are available at checkout. (See: Shipping Policy)

Yes, we ship globally! International times vary by country but usually take 3-6 business days. We guarantee that our products will arrive to you.

You will receive an email with tracking as soon as your order ships (usually within 24 hours).

Please check with neighbors and your local post office first. If it is still missing after 24 hours, contact our support team.

For safety and hygiene reasons, we cannot accept returns on opened or used products.

Please email us a photo of the damage immediately, and we will send a replacement.

We process orders very quickly. If you need to cancel, email us within 1 hour of placing the order.

Yes, we offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount. Check the banner at the top of the site for current offers.

Yes, we ship to PO Boxes via USPS.

Customs fees are determined by your local government and are the responsibility of the buyer. But you can email us at contact@xpaintattoo.com to see if we can work with you on this.

Yes! But it also makes you smart. Sitting still allows your artist to do better work.

Check with your artist. Some shops are small, but moral support is usually welcome. (See: Can You Bring a Friend to Your Tattoo Appointment? A Guide to Etiquette)

Standard industry tip is 20-25% of the total cost of the tattoo. (See: How Much Should You Tip Your Tattoo Artist? A Guide to Proper Etiquette)

Yes, it is excellent for eyeliner, lip blushing, and eyebrows.

Yes! It is an incredible moisturizer for dry knuckles and elbows.

Both, but bone (ribs, spine) is usually sharper pain. Numbing cream helps with both.

No. Do not tattoo over sunburned skin, and do not apply lidocaine to large areas of sunburned skin unless directed by your doctor. (See: Can You Get a Tattoo on a Sunburn? A Critical Safety Warning)

A blowout is when ink spreads under the skin when the tattoo artist went too deep. It causes a blurry look. Numbing cream does not cause this; it is a technique issue. (See: What Causes Tattoo Blowout and Can It Be Fixed?)

In many states, if you get tattooed at a licensed facility (like one that uses No Pain products), you can donate blood immediately. Check your local Red Cross guidelines.

Sometimes red ink can cause more sensitivity than black ink. Our Soothing Gel helps with this reaction.

Consult a pediatrician before using any topical anesthetic on children.

Some older tattoo inks contain metals that react to MRIs. Our aftercare products do not interfere with MRIs. (See: Is it Safe to Get an MRI with Tattoos? A Modern Guide)

No, but our Numbing Cream is very effective for reducing the sting of waxing.

We love reviews! You will receive an email 14 days after purchase to leave your feedback.

Because we are tattooed people making products for tattooed people. We know what works, we care about your art, and we want you to have a great tattoo experience!