Getting a Tattoo and Pain: Ways to Make It Bearable

How Much Does Getting a Tattoo Hurt? Everything You Need to Know

Are you planning to get your first tattoo soon? A frequently asked question is: "How much does a tattoo actually hurt?" The answer is not the same for everyone, but in this article, we give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of pain when getting a tattoo.

It is important to know that the pain you experience when getting a tattoo can vary depending on several factors such as the location on your body, the size and complexity of the design, and your personal pain threshold. Let’s take a closer look at these aspects.

Factors That Influence the Pain When Getting a Tattoo

Location on the Body

The spot where you get the tattoo has a big impact on how much pain you feel. Generally speaking: the thinner and more sensitive the skin, the more pain. Tattoos on areas with many nerve endings, little fat, and close to the bone can be more painful.

Some of the most painful places to get a tattoo are:

• Ribs
• Feet
• Ankles and shins
• Chest
• Elbow
• Neck

Less painful spots are often:

• Upper arms
• Forearms
• Thighs
• Shoulder blades

Size and Complexity of the Design

The larger and more detailed your tattoo is, the longer it takes to apply and thus the longer you sit in the tattoo chair. A small, simple tattoo is usually done faster and therefore less painful than a large, complex design with many details and colors.

Personal Pain Threshold

Everyone experiences pain differently. What is unbearable for one person may be manageable for another. Your personal pain tolerance plays an important role in how painful you will find the tattooing. Keep in mind that the pain can be more intense than you expect.

What Does It Feel Like to Get a Tattoo?

Most people describe the pain of tattooing as a burning, scraping sensation or a kind of scratching on the skin. It feels like being scratched for a long time with a sharp object on your skin. The pain is often strongest at the beginning and may decrease as your session progresses.

Some compare the pain to the feeling of a rubber band snapping repeatedly against your skin or to the sensation of sunburn. It can also feel like an intense, nagging sensation that radiates to the surrounding skin.

Tips to Reduce the Pain When Getting a Tattoo

Although you cannot completely eliminate the pain, there are some things you can do to make it more bearable:

• Make sure you are rested and well-nourished before your tattoo session
• Stay hydrated before and during the session
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing
• Use a numbing cream (discuss this with your tattoo artist)
• Try to relax and breathe deeply regularly
• Distract yourself with music or a conversation

The Pain of Tattooing Is Usually Worth the Result

Most people who have gotten a tattoo agree: the pain is more than worth it. A beautiful tattoo is a lifelong artwork you can enjoy every day. Enduring the painful moments makes the result even more meaningful and special.

If you are unsure whether you can handle the pain, consider starting with a smaller, less complex tattoo in a less sensitive area. This way you can get used to the feeling and build up to larger, more challenging designs.

Remember that the pain is temporary, but your tattoo is permanent. With the right preparation and mindset, you can handle the pain well. It is a victory and a story you carry with you forever.

Still unsure about the commitment of a permanent tattoo? Check out the collection of temporary tattoos from tattforaweek. This way you can first try how a tattoo looks on a certain spot without the pain or the permanent aspect of a real tattoo.