Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, whether it’s your first piece of ink or adding to an existing collection. If you’re considering getting tattooed, you’re likely wondering about the pain factor and if the tattoo place you choose will impact the discomfort.
Let’s get straight to the point: tattoos do hurt. Anyone who claims otherwise probably has a very high pain tolerance! A tattoo needle is penetrating multiple layers of skin, so some level of pain is unavoidable. However, the good news is that some Tattoo Places on your body are known to be less painful than others. Knowing these locations can make your tattoo journey more comfortable, especially if you’re concerned about pain.
Discovering the Least Painful Tattoo Places
Generally, the least painful tattoo places are areas where the skin is thicker, has fewer nerve endings, and has a good layer of fat underneath. Think about the opposite – the most painful spots are typically bony areas with thin skin or a high concentration of nerve endings, such as the ribs, spine, and feet.
To get a better understanding of the easiest tattoo places, we consulted experienced individuals, including heavily tattooed people and the team at Stories & Ink. Here’s a list of body areas often cited as the least painful for tattoos:
- Forearms: Consistently ranked as the number one least painful tattoo place.
- Outer Upper Arms: Another excellent choice for a less painful experience.
- Outer Shoulders: Similar to the upper arms, the outer shoulder area tends to be less sensitive.
- Outer Upper Thighs: The fleshy outer thigh is often reported as being relatively pain-free.
- Calves: The calf area, with its muscle and fat, is also considered a less painful tattoo place.
- Lower Back: For many, the lower back is surprisingly low on the pain scale.
If you’re getting your first tattoo and are nervous about the pain, choosing one of these tattoo places can help ease you into the experience. Remember that pain is subjective, and some individuals report surprisingly low pain levels in areas like the shins, scalp, fingers, and chest. However, forearms remain the most frequently mentioned least painful tattoo place.
Forearm tattoos
Forearm tattoo placement is widely recognized as one of the least painful tattoo places to choose for your ink.
If you’re still uncertain about the potential pain level of a specific tattoo place, Mikkel Elkjaer, Creative Director at Stories & Ink, suggests a simple test:
“I always pinch myself where I’m getting tattooed. That way, I have an idea of how painful it’s going to be,” he explains.
Upper arm tattoos
Opting for tattoo places like the outer upper arm can contribute to a more comfortable tattoo experience.
Factors That Influence Tattoo Pain
While tattoo places significantly impact pain, several other factors can also play a role in your individual experience. Pain tolerance varies from person to person, and the overall pain you feel during a tattoo session can depend on:
Age
Some research suggests that pain sensitivity may decrease as we age. This could mean older individuals might experience less tattoo pain. However, anecdotal evidence from tattooed individuals is mixed. While some older people might find tattoos less painful, others may find it harder to endure longer sessions.
Biological Sex
Studies indicate that individuals assigned female at birth may experience pain more intensely and have lower pain thresholds and tolerance. However, more research is needed to confirm this definitively. Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation can also affect pain perception, potentially making tattoos feel more painful during periods.
Tattoo Technique
The style of tattoo you choose can influence the pain level. Bold line, color-packed tattoos may be perceived as more painful than fine-line designs. Hand-poke tattoos are often described as gentler and potentially less painful than machine tattoos, though individual experiences vary.
Session Duration
Smaller tattoos are generally less painful than larger ones simply because they take less time to complete. Longer tattoo sessions lead to increased skin trauma and irritation. Discomfort from prolonged sitting or lying in one position can also amplify perceived pain over time.
Tattoo Artist’s Technique
The technique of your tattoo artist can significantly impact your pain level. Some artists may have a “heavy hand,” or may overwork the skin, leading to increased pain and discomfort.
Personal Expectations
Your mindset can influence your pain experience. If you anticipate a tattoo to be extremely painful, it might feel more so. Conversely, if you expect minimal pain, you might be pleasantly surprised. Managing expectations can be a powerful tool in pain management.
Daily Wellbeing
Your physical and mental state on the day of your appointment matters. Being tired, hungry, rushed, or stressed can lower your pain tolerance and make the tattoo experience more intense. Ensuring you are well-rested, fed, and relaxed can positively impact your pain perception.
Tattooing Over Scars or Stretch Marks
Tattooing over scars can be more painful depending on the scar’s depth and size. Scar tissue and skin with stretch marks can be more sensitive, potentially leading to increased pain in these areas. Consult with your tattoo artist for personalized advice.
Cover-Up Tattoos
Cover-up tattoos, done over existing tattoos, can sometimes be more painful. This is potentially due to pre-existing skin trauma or scar tissue from the previous tattoo. However, individual experiences vary, and some find cover-ups no more painful than fresh tattoos.
Thigh tattoo
The outer thigh is frequently mentioned as a less painful tattoo place, ideal for larger designs.
Least Painful Tattoo Places: Gender Considerations
While tattoo places are generally perceived similarly across genders in terms of pain, some areas are commonly highlighted for men and women specifically:
Least Painful Tattoo Places for Women
For women, tattoo places with less nerve endings and thicker skin, such as the outer shoulders and outer upper thighs, are often recommended as less painful options.
Least Painful Tattoo Places for Men
Men often find the arm, particularly the forearm and outer upper arm, to be among the least painful tattoo places. These areas are excellent choices for larger pieces like half or full sleeves.
Caring for Your New Tattoo
Regardless of the tattoo place you choose, proper aftercare is crucial. Prior to your tattoo appointment, consider using a daily moisturizer to hydrate and nourish your skin, preparing it for the tattooing process. However, avoid applying moisturizer on the day of your appointment as it can interfere with stencil application. Explore specialized tattoo aftercare products to ensure optimal healing and maintain the vibrancy of your new ink.
Stories & Ink Daily Moisturiser
Using a daily moisturizer, like Stories & Ink’s Daily Moisturiser, can help prepare your skin before getting a tattoo.
For more detailed preparation advice, consult a comprehensive pre-tattoo preparation guide. By choosing a less painful tattoo place and properly preparing, you can minimize discomfort and enjoy a smoother tattoo experience.
In conclusion, while all tattoos involve some pain, choosing less sensitive tattoo places like the forearms, outer arms, shoulders, thighs, calves, and lower back can significantly reduce discomfort. Remember that pain is subjective, and factors beyond tattoo places also influence your experience. Proper preparation and aftercare are key to a positive tattoo journey.
