Jaivik TattooDoes a tattoo hurt? Pain by body part
Most people feel some pain from a tattoo, and how much depends on the body part, the design and the person. This guide shows which areas are usually easier and which are harder, and how to prepare.
Usually easier
- Outer upper arm
- Outer forearm
- Outer thigh and front of the thigh
- Calf
- Upper back
Moderate
- Inner forearm
- Shoulder and shoulder blade
- Chest muscle
- Inner upper arm
- Wrist
Usually harder
- Ribs and the side of the body
- Spine and the sternum
- Collarbone
- Ankles, feet and hands
- Fingers
- Neck, behind the ear and the elbow crease
Why some areas hurt more
Thin skin over bone and areas with many nerve endings feel sharper. A longer sitting also feels harder toward the end. Pain is personal, so two people can feel the same tattoo differently.
How to prepare
- Sleep well the night before.
- Eat a proper meal and drink water before you come.
- Avoid alcohol the day before.
- Wear clothes that give easy access to the area.
- Bring water and a snack for a longer sitting.
- Breathe steadily, and tell your artist if you need a break.
Questions people ask
Does a small tattoo hurt less?
A small tattoo is quicker, so there is less time in pain. The spot matters more than the size.
Can I take a painkiller before my tattoo?
Check with a doctor before taking any medicine for the sitting, and tell your artist about any medicines you take.
What is the most painful place for a tattoo?
Bony and thin-skinned areas, such as the ribs, spine, feet, hands and fingers, are usually the hardest.