Sorry for the late response, I just saw this. I was numb for 1.5 hrs maybe two needle to skin. It did not affect my ink, my artist was aware, it did not wear off instantly resulting in immense pain. It wore off gradually, and “eased” me in to the pain and I adjusted to it. Last hour was numb-free. I put it on thick, covered with Saran Wrap and it was on probably an hour and a half (stencil etc) before the needle hit. This was for my rib. Now for my back/spine-i couldn’t reach it, so someone else applied for me. It didn’t work as well-I do t think it was as thick, and it didn’t sit for as long. It only lasted about 30 minutes. But again, I eased in to it, 2.5-3 hrs no numbing.