CBD oil’s popularity has risen in recent years. Proponents claim it has numerous health benefits, ranging from decreasing anxiety and stress to treating chronic pain. This has prompted others to wonder if CBD oil could assist make having a tattoo less unpleasant.
How Much Pain Do Tattoos Cause?
The following factors determine tattoo pain levels:
- Location on the body – Areas with a high density of nerve endings and thin skin, such as the spine or ribs, are more sensitive. Meatier areas, such as the arms or legs, usually pain less.
- Coloring – Using solid black ink is less uncomfortable than using colorful drawings, which necessitate more needle passes.
- Time invested – Larger, more elaborate tattoos take longer and cause more agony over time.
- Personal pain tolerance – Some people can tolerate tattoo pain better than others.
So a small, black and gray tattoo on the shoulder will usually hurt far less than an intricate, vivid sleeve extending down the arm. But even for the same design on the same part of the body, people perceive pain differently.
On a standard pain scale of 1 to 10, getting a tattoo can range from a mild 2 all the way up to a searing 8 or 9. The average seems to be around a 5 or 6 – more painful than a blood draw but not as bad as a broken bone.
Clearly, tattoos are no walk in the park pain-wise. So it’s understandable why many seek ways to take the edge off. Let’s look at whether CBD oil might be one option for managing tattoo pain.
What Exactly Is CBD Oil and How Does It Work?
CBD (cannabidiol) is a chemical derived from the cannabis plant. CBD, unlike THC, the cannabinoid that causes marijuana to become psychoactive, will not get you “stoned.”
Instead, CBD is said to work via interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system regulates functions such as pain, immunological function, stress, sleep, appetite, memory, and mood.
CBD, according to research, may help alleviate pain and inflammation by Temporarily preventing pain signals from reaching the brain Inflammation reduction
Interacting with serotonin and opioid receptors, which are implicated in the analgesic effects
Importantly, unlike narcotic medications, CBD does not appear to have any intoxicating side effects or the potential for addiction. This makes it appealing as a natural pain reliever.
So, how do these anti-pain and anti-inflammation characteristics apply to tattoo discomfort? Let’s take a look at what the research has revealed thus far.
Is CBD Oil Effective for Tattoo Pain? What Research Shows
There are currently no published research that investigate the effect of CBD oil on tattoo pain. However, there is scientific evidence that CBD can help with general pain alleviation.
Studies on postoperative pain, cancer-related pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis have consistently shown that subjects using CBD experienced lower levels of pain when compared to those in placebo groups. This growing body of research supports the scientific rationale for considering CBD as a potential option for alleviating tattoo discomfort. While tattoo pain may not be a strictly medical issue, it is a process involving inflammation and discomfort that bears similarity to the pain models explored in these studies. Therefore,
CBD oil for tattoo could be a promising avenue for individuals seeking relief during and after the tattooing process.
While clinical data is currently lacking, many tattoo aficionados use CBD and report positive effects. Many people share their suggestions and experiences of effectively using CBD oil and topicals to make getting tattooed more bearable on forums and social media.
While clinical research is still in its early stages, preliminary findings along with numerous anecdotal reports show that CBD may be a safe alternative for some people to alleviate tattoo pain. But it’s not a miracle cure-all; it’s only one option to try.
How Should You Use CBD Oil for Tattoos?
If you decide to try CBD oil to alleviate the pain of getting tattooed, you have several options. Here are some of the most popular CBD products for use before tattoo appointments:
Tinctures containing CBD oil
CBD oil tinctures are liquid extracts with a dropper for easy administration. CBD enters the bloodstream quickly when taken sublingually, by holding it under the tongue for 30-90 seconds.
Taking a CBD oil tincture an hour or two before your appointment can help produce a general sense of calm and reduce discomfort levels before the needle begins buzzing. This can help you relax after a lengthy session.
CBD creams and lotions
CBD topical creams, gels, and balms are intended for direct skin application. CBD topicals, when massaged into the tattooed region shortly before your session, may help minimize pain transmission and inflammation as the tattoo is applied.
However, because CBD topicals have milder systemic effects than tinctures, they may not be effective in relieving anxiety or discomfort beyond the localized area.
CBD Capsules and Edibles
CBD edibles like as candies and pills must pass through the digestive system before their benefits may be felt. This slows the onset of pain relief compared to sublingual tinctures.
Some folks, however, loathe the earthy flavor of CBD oil tinctures and prefer the flavor and convenience of edibles. Take them 1-2 hours before your visit to ensure that the CBD is fully effective when the tattooing begins.
Whatever way you pick, try it out before your tattoo appointment to determine the correct amount and see how CBD affects you. The majority of trials that indicate benefits employ dosages ranging from 25 to 100 mg administered a few hours before pain stimuli.
Other Ways to Deal with Tattoo Pain
While CBD oil may help some people cope with the pain of getting tattooed, it is not a cure-all. Don’t rely only on CBD oil for pain relief; be prepared to grit your teeth if it doesn’t perform as well as you planned.
It’s a good idea to have back-up preparations for dealing with discomfort. Here are some more coping strategies for tattoo sessions:
- Hydrate and eat a healthy meal before your appointment to help stabilize your blood pressure and blood sugar. Low blood sugar levels might aggravate discomfort.
- Concentrate on your breathing – Deep, slow belly breathing can help you relax in stressful situations.
- Get enough sleep – Arriving rested makes it simpler to zone out rather than compulsively concentrate on the discomfort.
- Inform your artist of your worries and pain tolerance levels so that the session tempo and breaks can be tailored accordingly.
- Consider numbing treatments – These over-the-counter topicals may work for some people, but they frequently irritate the skin and make it difficult for ink to set correctly. Test them ahead of time.
- Use distraction/meditation – Listen to music, meditate, or play mental games to divert your attention away from the needle pain.
You can withstand the discomfort and enjoy the adrenaline of having magnificent art engraved forever onto your flesh if you prepare properly and have the appropriate mentality. Don’t let the dread of discomfort keep you from getting the tattoo you’ve always wanted.
The Takeaway: CBD Oil May Lessen Tattoo Pain If Used Correctly
While research is still emerging, current evidence suggests CBD oil may help reduce the sting of getting tattooed – if used strategically. Due to its apparent pain and inflammation-reducing properties, CBD shows promise for taking the edge off this unpleasant procedure.
Many who’ve tried CBD oil before tattoo sessions report good results. Just keep expectations realistic. CBD oil is not a magic cure-all but one option that may provide mild-to-moderate relief for some people. Proper dosage and timing also impact effectiveness.
If trying CBD oil, give it a test run first to gauge effects. And have backup plans like numbing cream on hand in case it doesn’t work as hoped. While certainly not risk-free, CBD oil offers a much safer pain relief option compared to analgesics like opioids or alcohol.
So as you plan for your next tattoo appointment, consider adding CBD oil to your pain management regimen. Along with tried-and-true techniques like proper breathing and focus, it could help you finally get that intricate sleeve you’ve always dreamed of with minimal discomfort.
FAQs
What is the optimum CBD dosage to take before getting a tattoo?
Because the effects of CBD vary so greatly, there is no general “best” dose. In investigations, dosages for acute pain management ranged from 15mg to more than 100mg. It is determined by your body chemistry and the severity of your discomfort. Try 25-50mg CBD 1-2 hours before your visit as a starting point. Before raising the dose, see how you react to the first one. Also, if you are on any other medications, check your doctor.
How long should I wait before taking CBD oil?
Take your CBD dose 1-2 hours before your appointment time for the optimum pain relief. This allows the CBD to begin functioning in your system before the tattooing begins. If you’re using a tincture or pill, take it before you leave the house to give it time to work.
Should I inform my tattoo artist if I use CBD?
Yes, you should notify your artist if you use CBD within a few days of your session. CBD has the ability to thin the blood and affect bleeding and ink flow. Based on your CBD use, your artist may make adjustments such as utilizing different needle groupings or changing appointment times.
Is it okay to reapply CBD cream while getting a tattoo?
It is preferable not to. CBD topicals can interfere with tattooing and appropriate ink absorption. Before your appointment, limit yourself to only one application. If desired, reapply after the session is finished.
How much CBD cream should I apply prior to getting a tattoo?
Use a small amount of CBD cream around the tattoo site rather than all over when applying it prior to the tattoo. Excessive topical lotion can clog the needle and ink. A pea-sized amount massaged thoroughly over the target area 30-60 minutes before your visit is adequate.
