| Category | Purpose | Common Ingredients | Benefits | Precautions |
|---|
| Pre-tattoo cream | Reduce pain during tattooing (numbing effect) | Lidocaine, Prilocaine, Benzocaine | – Numbs skin to reduce needle pain – Makes long sessions easier | – Strictly regulated in many countries (FDA/EU) – Risk of allergic reaction – Do not apply over large areas or for too long |
| Aftercare cream | Help skin heal after tattooing | Vitamin E, Aloe vera, Shea butter, Vaseline | – Moisturizes skin – Reduces scabbing and itching – Helps preserve tattoo color | – Avoid petroleum-only ointments (may clog pores) – Test on small area for allergies – Use products designed for tattoo aftercare |