NUmbing cream and Anesthesia : Weighing Tradition Against Modern Methods

Tattooing is an ancient art form that has stood the test of time, with its roots embedded in cultures worldwide. While the procedure has always been associated with some level of pain, there is little to no historical documentation of individuals experiencing severe health complications from enduring tattoos naturally. However, with the modern rise of numbing creams and anesthesia, both clients and tattoo artists should consider how these innovations might impact the industry—both positively and negatively.

Sierra Gates hospitalization

Numbing creams, while effective in reducing pain by desensitizing nerve endings, can sometimes lead to adverse effects like skin irritation, swelling, or allergic reactions. For example, reality TV star Sierra Gates was hospitalized after a 12-hour leg sleeve tattoo session involving numbing cream. Gates later experienced severe pain and cellulitis, a bacterial infection, emphasizing the potential risks of prolonged use (FOX 5 Atlanta).

Ricardo Godoi tragically passed away during a back tattoo session performed under general anesthesia

More concerning is the increasing use of anesthesia for tattoos, particularly general anesthesia. This method, although providing complete pain relief, introduces significant health risks. Brazilian influencer Ricardo Godoi tragically passed away in January 2025 during a back tattoo session performed under general anesthesia. Despite the procedure taking place in a hospital, Godoi suffered cardiac arrest during sedation and could not be revived (People). This incident raises serious questions about the necessity and safety of using anesthesia for cosmetic procedures.

As pain management options become more advanced, the tattoo industry faces potential changes in regulations and liability. Will these methods advance the industry by making tattoos more accessible, or will they introduce new health risks that prompt stricter oversight? Artists and clients alike should weigh these factors, ensuring that the pursuit of comfort does not compromise safety. Ultimately, the decision to use pain management methods should be made with careful consideration, preserving the integrity of an art form that has been safely practiced for centuries.