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LEAST & MOST PAINFUL PLACES TO GET A TATTOO

If you’re considering getting a tattoo, you might be wondering about the most painful areas to avoid—or maybe you’re interested in challenging yourself by choosing one of the more sensitive spots. Either way, you’re in the right place!

For those new to tattoos, you’re probably leaning toward finding a spot that’s less likely to hurt. And while all tattoos involve some pain, it’s generally tolerable and, as any tattoo lover would say, completely worth it. Whether you’re feeling a little nervous or ready to push your pain tolerance to the limit, this guide has you covered. 

In this post, we’ll answer common questions about tattoo pain, what to expect after getting inked, and which areas tend to hurt the most. Plus, we’ve included some tips to help reduce pain during your session. But first, let’s dive into the most pressing question: how painful will it really be?

DOES GETTING A TATTOO HURT?

Yes, getting a tattoo does involve some level of pain. Tattoos are created using specially designed needles that rapidly puncture the skin. The speed is quick enough to pierce the skin without tearing it, but slow enough to cause some discomfort or pain. As a result, there’s generally no significant bleeding during the tattooing process. For the ink to become permanent, the needle must go beyond the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) and into the dermis—the layer capable of healing itself and holding the ink long-term.

Some parts of the body are more painful to tattoo than others. The following tattoo pain chart highlights these areas and can help you prepare for the level of discomfort you might experience, depending on where you choose to get inked. Continue reading to learn more!

TATTOO PAIN CHART

The tattoo pain chart acts as a useful, yet subjective guide for those thinking about getting inked. It outlines different areas of the body, ranking them from minimal discomfort to intense sensations, so you can better anticipate the pain you may feel during the process.

Curious about which spots might hurt a bit more? Check out the tattoo pain chart for men—it’s your ultimate cheat sheet to help plan a smoother, more comfortable tattoo session!

Ladies, if you’re thinking about getting a tattoo, this tattoo pain chart for women is your must-have guide. It breaks down which areas of the body may be easier to handle and which might cause a bit more of a pinch. Use this chart to get a better idea of what to expect, and dive into the tattoo world with confidence!

While tattoos can be painful in general, certain body parts can significantly amplify the discomfort. If you’re curious about which areas might be the most challenging, keep reading to discover some of the most agonizing and sensitive spots to get tattooed. This will help you better prepare for your tattooing experience!

WHAT ARE THE MOST PAINFUL PLACES TO GET A TATTOO?

Getting a tattoo will involve pain, no matter where you decide to get it. However, certain areas of the body are known to hurt far more than others. If you’re considering any of the spots below, you might want to think twice due to the high level of discomfort associated with them:

  • Armpit: The armpit is one of the most painful places to get tattooed. Many experienced tattoo artists even advise against it due to the extreme pain and difficulty of the area.
    Pain level: 9/10
  • Ribcage: With the ribcage being full of bones and constantly moving as you breathe, tattooing this area can be incredibly painful and is often considered one of the most painful spots to get inked.
    Pain level: 9/10
    Quick tip: Aftercare is important—wear loose, breathable clothing and avoid bras if the tattoo is near the band.
  • Ankles, Shins, Feet, and Toes: The thin skin on these areas makes for a sharp, vibrating pain that can be quite intense.
    Pain level: 9/10
  • Nipples and Breasts: These are some of the most sensitive parts of the body due to the many nerve endings, leading to high pain levels during tattooing.
    Pain level: 7/10
  • Groin: The groin area, rich with nerve endings and connected to various lymph nodes, is highly sensitive, resulting in intense pain.
    Pain level: 8/10
  • Elbows and Knees: Both areas have thin skin with little cushioning, leading to sharp, intense pain, especially on the knee.
    Pain level: 8/10 for elbows, 10/10 for knees
  • Hips: The pelvic bone is close to the skin in the hip area, and those with less body fat in this region may experience sharp, vibrating pain.
    Pain level: 8/10
  • Neck and Spine: These areas contain many nerves, making tattooing here quite painful. While the back of the neck is slightly more bearable, the front can be excruciating.
    Pain level: 7/10
  • Head, Face, and Ears: With little muscle or fat to cushion these areas and many nerve endings, tattoos here can cause significant pain.
    Pain level: 8/10
  • Lips: The lips and inside of the mouth are highly sensitive and prone to bleeding, making tattoos here both painful and tricky.
    Pain level: 6/10
  • Hands and Fingers: Due to constant use and the many nerve endings, tattoos on hands and fingers can be very painful, with movement also complicating healing.
    Pain level: 8/10
  • Stomach: Pain here varies depending on body shape. Looser skin, which is more common in people with higher body weight, tends to cause more pain, while tighter skin often hurts less.
    Pain level: 6/10
  • Inner Thigh: The inner thighs are particularly painful due to the presence of major nerves and sensitive skin, though they tend to heal relatively easily.
    Pain level: 7/10
  • Inner Bicep: The inner bicep is delicate and undergoes constant friction, making it quite sensitive to tattooing pain.
    Pain level: 6/10
  • Behind the Knees: The area behind the knees is full of nerve endings and located near the joint, making tattooing here very uncomfortable.
    Pain level: 7/10

Now, let’s take a look at some of the areas where getting a tattoo is comparatively less painful.

WHAT ARE THE LEAST PAINFUL PLACES TO GET A TATTOO?

Getting a tattoo can hurt, but there are certain spots on the body that tend to be much less painful. If you’re looking for a more comfortable tattooing experience, check out these less painful areas:

  • Upper or Outer Thigh: This area has thicker skin and fat, which makes the pain more tolerable. Most describe the sensation as a dull background pain.
    Pain level: 4/10
  • Forearm: With its thick skin and muscle padding, the forearm is one of the easier places to get tattooed. It’s a popular choice for both artists and clients alike.
    Pain level: 3/10
    Trivia: The upper arm is one of the most common places for tattoos.
  • Shoulder and Outer Bicep: The skin here is thicker, and there’s plenty of muscle, making it one of the least painful spots to get inked.
    Pain level: 3/10
  • Upper and Lower Back: The back tends to be less painful, especially if you avoid bony areas like the shoulder blades or spine.
    Pain level: 4/10
  • Calves: Calf muscles have a generous layer of fat and muscle, which provides cushioning and reduces sensitivity to pain.
    Pain level: 4/10

These areas provide a smoother tattoo experience, especially for those who may have a lower tolerance for pain.

HOW PAINFUL IS A TATTOO?

Tattoo pain can vary widely depending on the individual, their pain tolerance, and the area of the body being tattooed. Some people hardly react to the pain, while others may find it overwhelming. It’s important to understand your own pain threshold and communicate it with your tattoo artist before the session begins.

Tattoo pain can feel like different sensations, which are typically described as:

  • Burning: This sensation feels like something hot pressing against your skin. It’s not extremely intense but noticeable, especially if the artist spends extra time on one part of your body.
  • Dull: This is the type of pain most people prefer. It’s muted and not very sharp, allowing you to focus on other things or distract yourself. You might feel this once or twice during the session, but it doesn’t last long.
  • Scratching: Similar to the sting of a paper cut or a scratch from a cat, this type of pain is mild but still present. It isn’t overwhelming, but you’ll notice it.
  • Sharp: Also known as stinging pain, this is more intense. It occurs when the needle goes deeper into the skin or when fine details are being drawn. It can be particularly painful in areas with thin skin or near bones and might even cause fainting in rare cases.
  • Vibrating: Vibrating pain happens when the needle works near a bone, causing a vibrating sensation in the surrounding nerves. It’s common in bony areas like the outer wrist, ribs, ankles, and knees.

While tattoos usually come with some degree of pain, certain factors can influence how intense that pain feels. In the next section, we’ll explore the key factors that affect the level of discomfort during the tattooing process.

HOW TO MINIMIZE THE PAIN CAUSED BY TATTOOING

Here are some essential tips to help make your tattooing experience more comfortable and minimize pain:

  • Get a good night’s sleep: Being well-rested will help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during the session, reducing anxiety.
  • Stay sober: Avoid alcohol before getting a tattoo. Alcohol thins your blood, which can complicate the tattooing process and lead to poor results.
  • Consider numbing creams: Ask your tattoo artist if it’s okay to use numbing creams to reduce the pain.
  • Avoid eating right before a stomach tattoo: Having a full stomach might cause discomfort, especially if you’re getting a tattoo in that area.
  • Choose an experienced tattoo artist: Make sure your artist is certified and experienced to ensure a safer and smoother experience.
  • Bring distractions: Candy or music can help divert your attention from the discomfort during the tattoo session.
  • Follow aftercare instructions: Proper aftercare is crucial to avoid unnecessary pain and ensure your tattoo heals well.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your session to stay hydrated.
  • Bring a supportive companion: Having a friend with you can boost your morale, but avoid bringing too many people to avoid distractions.
  • Be certain about your tattoo: Commit to your decision to avoid second-guessing, which might add to the stress and discomfort.

By preparing both physically and mentally, you can make the tattooing process smoother and less painful.

CONCLUSION

The experience of tattoo pain is highly subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. Factors such as pain tolerance, location of the tattoo, needle depth, and the artist’s technique all play a role in the level of discomfort experienced. While some areas of the body are generally considered less painful, such as the outer arm, calf, and shoulder blades, individual experiences may differ. Areas with thinner skin, like the inner wrist or ankle, can be more sensitive. Ultimately, the best way to determine your pain tolerance is to consult with a tattoo artist and discuss your options. Remember, the beauty of a tattoo often outweighs the temporary discomfort of the process.

THESE PEOPLE COULD HAVE USED A TWICE THOUGHT BEFORE GETTING THEIR NEW TATTOOS

Tattoos are a form of self-expression, a way to mark significant moments or simply to adorn the body. However, sometimes, a tattoo can go horribly wrong. Whether it’s a typo, a poorly executed design, or a tattoo that simply doesn’t age well, there are plenty of examples of people who might regret their decision to get inked. Let’s take a look at some of the most cringe-worthy tattoos.

WORKING FROM HOME WENT TOO FAR

Sure, we’ve all had those days when choosing an outfit feels too much, and going without seems tempting. But, as we all know, society expects a bit more modesty. Enter this guy, who’s bypassed the wardrobe dilemma entirely. No more clothes shopping or sun exposure worries for him—talk about a bold move!

GOING WITH THE LOVE ANGLE

It’s clear what they were aiming for with this tattoo, but a complete reversal might be the best bet now. While a permanent tribute to a child’s significance is touching, a permanent spelling error? Not so much. The humor here lies in the fact that not only has mom unintentionally become an “angle,” but the statement itself is, you guessed it, also at an angle!

ANYONE KNOW WHAT DATE HALLOWEEN IS?

Alright, we’re assuming this isn’t meant to be the Bride of Chucky, but who could it be instead? Avril Lavigne? Britney Spears? Amanda Seyfried’s character from Mean Girls? Honestly, we’re stumped, which doesn’t exactly speak well for the tattoo artist. And what’s she holding with those creepy claws? It looks like either a tiny microphone or a gigantic lipstick. Once again, we’re at a loss!

WE’RE ABSOLUTELY OWLING

This hawk, falcon, or whatever it is, might need to lay off the snacks if it wants to stay airborne! But if it can’t take flight, it’ll at least make a steadfast shoulder companion for its owner. Maybe the bird isn’t as chunky as it appears; it’s just that its small beak makes its round body look even more pronounced.

PLAY AT YOUR OWN RISK

Oh no. If this is some sort of gambling machine, we definitely don’t want to be around when it pays out! It has all the signs of a bachelor party blunder or maybe the result of a losing bet—fitting with the theme, at least. We can only imagine how many people have tried to insert a coin into this slot. Not a pleasant thought.

FINDING DIRECTION IN LIFE

Spelling mistakes are bad enough, but when your entire tattoo is a compass, getting the directions right should be a top priority. Mixing up East and West might be somewhat forgivable (though it is permanent ink!), but confusing North and South? That’s quite the feat. Luckily, this lady’s compass is unlikely to lead her astray since she won’t be able to see it anyway!

PUTTING YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

This is a classic example of a terrible idea executed flawlessly. The design itself is superb, but we can’t quite grasp the reasoning behind permanently inking a sneaker onto your foot. And who’s going to tell him that a pair of Chuck Taylor Converse costs less than the time spent on this tattoo? Still, the craftsmanship of the artwork is undeniably impressive.

DON’T STOP BELIEVING

A big shoutout to all the kids who paid attention in elementary school—this is why spelling matters! Many jobs require a solid grasp of language, and tattooing is definitely one of them. Even if a client provides a design idea, it’s up to the artist to double-check and ensure everything is correct. Unless, of course, they were playing a prank on this guy: plot twist!

A NOT SO KILLER QUEEN

Is this real life or just fantasy? Freddie would surely be in an emotional landslide if he saw this artist’s take on him. The tattoo is based on such an iconic image of the Queen star that it’s clear who it’s meant to be, but the execution falls short. For starters, what’s going on with his left eye?

STATING THE OBVIOUS

It’s hard to imagine anyone disagreeing with this statement! Despite its jarring nature, there’s something endearing about the irony and self-deprecation of this tattoo, making it slightly less problematic than some of the others on this list. Finding positives isn’t easy, but at least all seven words are spelled correctly—a definite win! Beyond that, we’re at a loss. Fans of red and black might have a different opinion.

THAT’S A LITTLE BIT CHEEKY

Alright, we get it—you’re a proud parent. But a face tattoo? The ink color and intense shading give this tattoo an oddly aggressive vibe. It’s a shame because the subject matter is really cute! Unfortunately, this piece might end up in a folder with countless other face tattoos that perhaps should have been declined by the artist.

WHEN YOU HAVE EYES IN THE BACK OF YOUR HEAD

Anyone with kids knows that claiming to have eyes in the back of your head is a great way to get them to behave when they think you’re not watching. Maybe that’s the idea behind this unusual tattoo. To be fair, the tattoo itself is impressively realistic and well-executed, though the accompanying haircut doesn’t do it any favors.

HAS ANYONE SEEN BRENDA?

Oh, Brenda, you must be quite the special lady. Although this tattoo borders on the creepy or psychotic, there are definitely some romantic undertones. We’re sure everyone would agree that we hope this guy and Brenda stay together, or things could get awkward for his next partner. Unless, of course, his next partner is also named Brenda.

JUDGEMENT DAY SHOULD BE INTERESTING

It’s hard to know where to begin with this one. The obvious issue is the apparent typo—though we assume it’s a typo? If it was intentional, the joke isn’t clear at all. Awkward. Once you get past the mishandled text, your attention shifts to the, um, image below. What appears to be a swollen hand with a ladybug on top is actually a fetus. Yikes.

NO ONE’S IDEA OF A HAPPY MEAL

This might be one of the most bizarre tattoo concepts we’ve ever encountered. This reimagined Ronald McDonald is giving off serious Heath Ledger’s Joker vibes and honestly looks like it’s straight out of a horror movie. Who knew the mascot of the world’s largest fast-food chain could be so ripped? Presumably, he’s not eating burgers all day—though maybe that’s the secret to a six-pack?

GOTHAM PROBABLY DOESN’T NEED A HERO LIKE THIS

Our first impression of this somewhat scrawny caped crusader is that it looks like a child’s drawing turned permanent by a proud parent. If that’s the case, we understand, kind of. However, if this was designed by an adult, our sympathy is much lower. The set of razor-sharp teeth in Batman’s wide-open mouth looks quite menacing. He’s supposed to be a bat, not a shark, right?

NOTHING WRONG WITH A BIT OF SELF-REFLECTION

Most people who regret a tattoo from their younger days usually consider removal or, if that’s not feasible, a convincing cover-up. Less common, though, is the addition of a disclaimer asterisk, but we’re actually here for it! This touch of self-deprecation turns what could be a slightly tragic tattoo into a humorous moment—in a good way. Instead of hiding from his past, this guy is playfully embracing it.

KEEPING IT REAL CLASSY

Who’s going to break the news that his tattoo actually adds up to 489, not “party time”? This is one of those tattoos you hope is done with a temporary marker or biro pen, but unfortunately, it’s permanent ink. Still, if anyone asks about his hobbies, he doesn’t need to say a word—he can just roll up his sleeve.

DON’T LOOK AT IT DIRECTLY!

If you’re getting a tattoo focused on perfect circular shapes, like moon phases (which we assume is the intention), it’s crucial that the circles are actually round. Granted, tattooing on a limb with its uneven surface is challenging, but this is particularly problematic. Not only are the moons oddly shaped, but the eclipse shadow is all over the place.

SOMEONE PROBABLY SMOKED A LITTLE TOO MUCH

No, we definitely see the irony here. Let’s call it life imitating art—or in this case, artwork. We’d guess that the person who got this tattoo might enjoy a toke or two, but they probably should have had someone who could spell handle the job. Or maybe someone who wasn’t high? Let’s hope the typo was intentional and part of a joke, which, to be fair, could be kind of funny.

IS IT A BIRD, IS IT A FORMER PRESIDENT?

At least the person had the courage to share this “unique” tattoo in hopes of finding an artist to cover it up. While there may be people who think this SuperTrump design is fantastic, clearly the owner views it as a mistake. Mr. Trump would surely appreciate those abs and that jawline, though!

WHEN YOU RUN OUT OF MONEY FOR THE WHOLE CAST

To be honest, this is actually a pretty good tattoo. But what happened to poor Timon? Or rather, what didn’t happen? It looks like the tattoo artist finished up only for the client to point out that Timon, the hilarious meerkat from The Lion King, was missing. Not to worry, they decided to add him in quickly. Unfortunately, Timon now looks even more like a snack for a hyena.

MERMAIDS SURE AREN’T WHAT THEY USED TO BE

Freshly done and still oozing with blood, one can only imagine the thoughts of the poor guy who has yet to see the monstrosity now permanently inked on his back. We can’t see his reaction, but it must have been something to behold. Honestly, this “piece” is so bad it’s hard to critique it meaningfully.

A WOLF IN SHEEP’S CLOTHING

What is it with tattoo artists and wolves? Or, more accurately, what is it with subpar tattoo artists and wolves? It seems the fearsome wolf is a common stumbling block for many, as this example clearly shows. To be fair, even poorly done wolf tattoos usually resemble the animal to some extent! This one, however, looks more like the prey a wolf would be hunting—a sheep or perhaps a deer?

IT’S TIME TO FACE THE MUSIC

No matter how questionable (or downright terrible) a tattoo might be, there’s usually some logic behind it. The execution may be lacking, but the intended design is often clear. Not in this case, though. We’ve stared at this monstrosity for ages and it’s still a mystery! To make matters worse, its location on the body makes it even more painful to look at—covering up half a face is no easy feat.

PIKACHU DID THAT TO YOU?

Poor Pikachu, it’s tough to see you like this! There are undoubtedly thousands of fantastic Pokémon-themed tattoos out there, but sadly, this isn’t one of them. Apparently, the left eye was so poorly done that the recipient requested an eye patch to be added midway through the process. While we’re all for making the best of a bad situation, wouldn’t it have been safer to just stop and rethink?

NOW THAT’S WHAT YOU CALL A PINUP

Ah yes, the tradition of pinup tattoos continues, though this example is lacking in many ways. It’s ironic that a style meant to exude sensuality and allure ends up being anything but. Where do we start with this one? Beyond the fact that this “pinup” looks like it was drawn by an elementary school student, the exaggerated proportions are what really make it stand out. Clearly, a long torso is the new long legs!

IS THAT A JACKSON POLLOCK?

You know that disapproving aunt everyone has who thinks all tattoos are ugly, no matter what? Well, in her eyes, this is what every tattoo looks like. Even the most laid-back “express yourself” types would have a hard time finding anything positive about this one—if we can even call it that. Our only hope is that not everything on this back is permanent ink—please let it be a Sharpie!

RUNNING FROM THE WOLVES

There seems to be something particularly challenging about accurately tattooing wolves. Is it their notorious distant gaze? Their calm yet intimidating presence? Whatever it is, this artist could use more time studying wolves before permanently inking someone’s skin again. While the overall quality of this tattoo is lacking, it’s the wolf cub—or is it a badger?—that really gets us laughing.

THE RECIPIENT WAS FEELING CHIRPY AFTER THIS RESCUE

This is the tattoo equivalent of snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. What started as one of the worst attempts at a blackbird (and a framed mirror) has been mercifully salvaged by a skilled artist. This is a perfect example of why it’s okay to halt a tattoo session if you’re worried about the artistic direction—or, in this case, the lack thereof.

CONCLUSION

While tattoos can be beautiful and meaningful, it’s important to approach the decision with caution. A poorly executed tattoo can be a lifelong regret. Always do your research, choose a reputable artist, and consider the potential consequences before committing to a permanent design. Remember, a little extra thought can go a long way in ensuring your tattoo is something you’ll be proud of for years to come.