Getting a tattoo can be an exciting experience, but the question of pain often comes up for first-timers. The answer is not straightforward, as pain levels can vary significantly based on factors like placement, size, and personal pain tolerance. While getting inked does involve some discomfort, understanding what to expect and using certain techniques can help minimize pain.
What Causes Tattoo Pain?
Tattoo pain is caused by the repeated piercing of the needle into the skin. The needles penetrate the epidermis, or outer layer of skin, and deposit ink into the dermis, the inner layer below that contains connective tissue and blood vessels.
This needle piercing stimulates nerve endings and sends pain signals to the brain. The sensation is often described as a sharp, stinging, or burning feeling. Areas with many nerve endings, like the hands and feet, tend to be more sensitive.
Factors That Influence Tattoo Pain
Several factors impact the level of discomfort experienced when getting a tattoo:
Location on the Body
Some parts of the body are more sensitive and receive more nerve stimulation from tattooing. In general, areas over thick muscle or bone hurt less, while areas over thinner skin with many nerve endings are more painful.
Here is an overview of tattoo pain levels by location, from least to most painful:
- Outer arms
- Outer thighs
- Back
- Shoulders
- Stomach
- Chest
- Inner biceps
- Forearms
- Behind the knees
- Ankles
- Feet
- Ribs
- Neck
- Face
- Inner thighs
- Hands
Size of the Tattoo
Larger tattoos cover more surface area and require more extensive needling over a longer period. This generally means more pain compared to a tiny tattoo.
Needle Depth
Needles penetrate 1/64 to 1/16 inches into the skin. Deeper punctures into the dermis may increase pain levels.
Coloring
Solid black ink is more painful than lighter colors like white, yellow, or green. This is because deeper and more ink penetration is needed to effectively deposit dark pigment.
Level of Detail
Intricate detailing like small lettering, thin lines, dot work, and shading requires moving the needle more. More needling movements can increase pain.
Experience of the Artist
A highly skilled artist moves the needle smoothly and efficiently, minimizing pain. Someone new to tattooing may cause more unnecessary discomfort.
Personal Pain Tolerance
Everyone has a different pain threshold. Some people endure tattoo pain better than others.
Tattoo Pain Chart
This tattoo pain chart provides an overview of pain levels based on location:
| Location | Pain Level (1-10) |
|---|---|
| Outer arms | 2-3 |
| Outer thighs | 2-3 |
| Back | 3-5 |
| Shoulders | 3-5 |
| Stomach | 4-6 |
| Chest | 5-7 |
| Inner biceps | 6-8 |
| Forearms | 5-8 |
| Behind the knees | 7-9 |
| Ankles | 7-9 |
| Feet | 8-10 |
| Ribs | 8-10 |
| Neck | 8-10 |
| Face | 8-10 |
| Inner thighs | 9-10 |
| Hands | 10 |
As shown, outer arms and thighs tend to be less painful locations. Hands, face, ribs, and inner thighs tend to be the most painful for most people.
Does Tattoo Pain Lessen Over Time?
The pain sensation can change over the duration of the tattoo appointment. At first, the shock of the needle will likely feel most intense.
Over time, the body releases endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals, in response to the sustained needling. The adrenaline rush that comes with getting a tattoo also diminishes sensitivity. For larger pieces, the area may eventually become numb to some degree.
However, some ache and tenderness persists through the end for most individuals. The pain is not constant and levels may fluctuate during a tattoo session, which can last several hours.
Tattoo Pain Management Techniques
If you prepare properly, you can effectively manage discomfort. Here are some tips to make your tattoo experience less painful:
Mental Preparation
Having the right mindset goes a long way. If you walk in expecting unbearable pain, the experience may be worse. Being relaxed, well-rested, and ready for moderate discomfort can help.
Apply a Topical Numbing Cream
Numbing creams contain an anesthetic that blocks pain signals. Apply it an hour before the appointment and cover it with plastic wrap. This reduces initial needle shock. However, the effects wear off over time.
Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Pop an ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin, or other oral analgesic an hour before your appointment. This preemptively reduces inflammation and discomfort.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before and during your session. Hydration keeps your body working optimally and combats pain.
Eat a Light Meal
Eat a healthy snack a couple hours beforehand. Low blood sugar can exacerbate discomfort. Avoid heavy meals right before.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear breathable, loose clothing that allows easy access to the body part being tattooed. Tight clothes just add unnecessary friction and pain.
Bring Distractions
Listening to music, watching videos, or playing games helps redirect your focus from the discomfort.
Use Breathing Exercises
Try deep belly breathing, counting breaths, meditating, or visualization. Controlled breathing triggers relaxation.
Talk With Your Artist
Let them know you are nervous about pain. An experienced artist will walk you through the process, offer reassurance, and check in about your comfort level.
Aftercare for New Tattoos
Proper aftercare is vital for reducing pain and discomfort during healing:
– Remove bandages after 2-4 hours and wash gently with antimicrobial soap.
– Keep the tattoo moisturized with a thin layer of unscented lotion 1-3 times per day.
– Avoid soaking in water for 2-3 weeks until healed. Limit showers to 5 minutes.
– Wear loose, breathable clothing over the tattoo.
– Do not scratch or pick scabs as this can cause infection, bleeding, and poor ink retention.
– Avoid direct sun exposure or tanning for 3-4 weeks after getting inked.
– If the tattoo becomes severely inflamed, oozing, or painful past the first few days, see a doctor to rule out infection.
Conclusion
While tattoos do hurt, pain levels vary based on many factors. With proper preparation, a high pain tolerance, and an experienced artist, it is possible to get through a tattoo session with minimal discomfort. The adrenaline rush also helps distract from the pain. Proper aftercare reduces discomfort during healing. Overall, most tattoo recipients agree that the momentary pain is worth it for permanent body art they can be proud of.