Tattoo pain is a common concern for anyone considering getting inked. While the level of pain varies from person to person, the placement of the tattoo plays a significant role in how intense it feels.
Some body areas are known to be relatively mild, while others are notoriously painful. Understanding where tattoos hurt the least and the most can help you prepare for the experience.
Our tattoo pain guide breaks down the different levels of discomfort based on body placement so you know exactly what to expect.
Do Tattoos Hurt? If Yes, How Long Does the Pain Last?
Yes, it’s true! Tattoos hurt. When tattooing, more needles are used to insert ink into the dermis. When these needles move up and down, they repeatedly pierce the skin. But how does it feel, and how bad do tattoos hurt?
This might feel like burning, dullness, vibrating, stinging, scratching. If you’re concerned about how long the pain lasts, then the rough idea we can provide you is 15 to 30 days.
What are the Factors Affecting the Tattoo Pain?
Getting a tattoo hurts, but everyone has different levels of pain. For some, tattoo outlines are more painful than color shading. On the other hand, shading and coloring is extra painful. According to NIH studies, the pain tolerance levels for males and females differ. Generally, the pain varies on several factors:
- Physical Health
- Artist Technique
Most Painful Places to Get a Tattoo
In general, the most painful spots on your body for tattoos are the areas with nerve endings. The areas closer to the bones are less fat, and the areas with thin skin. These are considered sensitive areas and can cause high pain during tattooing. The most painful places to get a tattoo might include:
- Armpits
- Rib Cage
- Knees, Ankles, Shins, Toes and Feet’s
- Spine
- Groin
- Head
- Neck
- Face
- Fingers
- Wrist, and Hands
- Stomach
Where Do Tattoos Hurt the Least?
Let’s break this myth that tattoos hurt. We cannot deny it, of course. When a needle penetrates the five layers of your skin, it will hurt. Fortunately, there are some places that are less painful. So, where is the least painful place to get a tattoo? Generally, these are the areas where the skin is thicker, with less nerve endings and fat under the skin.
For instance, if you’re getting your first tattoo, you might be expecting the spot that causes less pain. Well, the least painful areas to get a tattoo are generally the areas with more fat and muscle and fewer nerve endings. These areas are mentioned below, and the tattoo pain in these areas may be low to moderate:
- Forearm
- Chest
- Shoulder and upper arm
- Outer thigh
- Calf
- Outer bicep
- Back
Ways to Less Pain Before, During and After Tattoos
What does getting a tattoo feel like? Painful? Getting a tattoo doesn’t have to be overly painful if you take the right steps before, during, and after the process. We’ve created how to minimize discomfort and make your tattoo experience as smooth as possible:
Before the tattoo
- Right Tattoo Artist: Choose a licensed and experienced artist as he’ll take less time to finish tattoos. It’s better if you visit your artist’s tattoo shop before the appointment to ensure the shop’s hygiene.
- Right Spot: Whether you’re a newbie or not we advise you to choose a spot that is less sensitive. You can even talk to your artist about placements, and he can guide you well.
- Keep Yourself Hydrated: If you’re planning for a tattoo, you must stay hydrated to avoid dryness on the skin. There is no wonder dry skin will hurt more. So, it’s better to keep yourself hydrated before your session.
- Say No to Alcohol and Caffeine: Before your appointment, don’t drink alcohol for at least 24 hours. It dehydrates the body, heightens pain sensitivity, and, unknown fact, thins your blood.
- Eat a Healthy Meal Beforehand: Having a nutritious meal will keep your energy up and help you handle the session more comfortably.
During the tattoo
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing or focusing on something else (like listening to music or chatting with the artist) can distract you from the tattoo pain.
- Ask for Breaks if Needed: If the pain becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to ask your artist for short breaks. Your artist will stop for some time and then start again.
- Numbing Creams: You can apply a numbing cream (with your tattoo artist’s approval) before the session. These can significantly dull the sensation.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Dress in loose, easy-to-remove clothing that won’t irritate the area being tattooed.
- Distract Yourself: Having someone to support you can ease anxiety, making the process more tolerable.
After the tattoo
- Follow Aftercare Instructions: The very first thing you should do is follow all the instructions given by your artist. Follow aftercare guidelines carefully. Proper care prevents infection and minimizes post-tattoo irritation.
- Take Cool Showers: The reason for the cool shower is the scalding hot water can hurt and fade the ink.
- Apply a Healing Ointment: Use recommended creams or ointments to soothe the area and reduce discomfort.
- Stay Out of the Sun: Protect your new tattoo from direct sunlight, as UV rays can worsen irritation and slow healing.
- Use Sunscreen and Moisturizer: Always apply sunscreen, especially in summer. All this to keep the shine of your tattoo like freshly made.
To Conclude
Getting a tattoo is a deeply personal and exciting experience, but understanding the potential pain involved can help you feel more prepared. While pain levels vary by individual, factors like placement, size, and technique, significantly affect how much discomfort you’ll feel.
However, by choosing less sensitive areas and following steps to minimize tattoo pain before, during, and after the session, you can make the process more comfortable. Remember, selecting an experienced artist, staying hydrated, and practicing proper aftercare are essential for a positive tattoo experience. Whether you’re considering your first tattoo or adding to your collection, knowing what to expect ensures you’re ready for this meaningful journey.
At Reckon Tattoo, we prioritize your comfort and provide expert guidance to ensure a smooth and memorable tattoo journey. So, book your appointment today!
