So, you’re thinking about your next (or first!) tattoo? Maybe you’ve already got the perfect design in mind and even know where you want it on your body. But wait – have you thought about the pain? If you’ve never been inked before, you might want to avoid the spots that are known for being extra painful.
Some areas of your body hurt more than others when it comes to tattoos, so if you’re still undecided, check out the spots that might be best to avoid (and the ones that could be a breeze!).
The most painful tattoo spots
Let’s start with the areas that might make you think twice if you’re a bit nervous about the pain. These areas are known for being extra sensitive, so if you’re not a fan of discomfort, you might want to consider them carefully before going under the needle. But don’t let that scare you—sometimes a little pain is part of the process, and the end result will be totally worth it!
Armpits
Topping the list are your armpits, and for good reason. The axillary nerve runs through here, which is responsible for sensation in your arm. Add to that the lymph nodes in the area, and you’re looking at a painful experience with a longer healing time.
Ribs
The ribs are notorious for being one of the most painful places to get inked. The skin here is thin, the bones are right underneath, and there are plenty of nerves to go around. Plus, breathing while getting a tattoo here? Yeah, that makes it even more uncomfortable.
Nipples/breasts
Sure, breasts have some fatty tissue, but they’re also loaded with nerve endings – which is exactly why they’re an erogenous zone! Tattoos here can be a bit more intense compared to other spots.
Groin
Much like your chest, the groin is packed with nerves. That delicate area just below your stomach can be seriously painful if you’re thinking of getting inked there.
Elbows
The elbow might surprise you, but even though the skin feels thick, there’s very little fat underneath. The bones are close to the surface, and the vibrations from the tattoo needle make this spot extra uncomfortable.
Behind the knees
Both the front and back of your knees can be sensitive spots. The skin behind the knee is thin and packed with nerves. It’s a ticklish area – which translates to more pain for tattoos.
Hips
Hips aren’t the worst, but if you’re on the thinner side, the needle vibrations can hit the bone and nerves, making it more painful.
Head
Your head is full of nerves, making it a more sensitive spot for tattoos. Add the challenge of sitting still, and this can be a tricky – and painful – area to get inked.
Lips
Lip tattoos aren’t fun, plain and simple. Your lips are already super sensitive, so getting a tattoo here feels like a sharp sting. Most people stick to simple designs because, trust us, less is more here.
The Least Painful Tattoo Spots
Worried after reading that list? Don’t be! The good news is, there are plenty of spots on your body that are much easier on the pain scale, making them ideal for first-timers or anyone looking for a more comfortable tattooing experience. These areas typically involve only mild discomfort, and many people find them to be a breeze. If you’re still feeling a little nervous, consider starting with one of these more manageable spots:
Forearm
The forearm is a popular tattoo spot for good reason. It’s not just about the pain (or lack thereof); you get to see and show off your tattoo often! The skin here is thicker, so the pain is minimal.
Hands
While the center of your hand or palm might sting, areas like around the thumb joint are usually thicker and much less painful. Plus, hand tattoos are a cool statement if you want something visible.
Shoulders
The sides and back of your shoulder are ideal if you’re trying to avoid pain. The nerves are tucked away in your armpit, so this spot is well protected and doesn’t hurt much.
Back
There are some areas of the back that might be a little more sensitive, but for the most part, the upper and lower back are pretty mild when it comes to tattoo pain. Of course, you won’t see your tattoo as often, but it’s still a popular spot!
Stomach
Pain levels here depend on your body type. The stomach has plenty of fat, so the pain is minimal if you have some extra padding. If you’re slimmer, it might hurt a bit more. Just remember, weight changes can distort the design over time!
Outer thigh
The upper outer thigh is well-protected with fat and doesn’t have many nerve endings. It’s a great choice for your first tattoo if you’re feeling a bit anxious.
Outer arm
The upper and outer parts of your arm are packed with muscle and low on nerve endings. This area is a good go-to for minimal discomfort.
Calves
Calves are another great option if you want to avoid too much pain. They have a healthy mix of muscle and fat, making them one of the least painful places for a tattoo.
What can affect tattoo pain?
Now, keep in mind that everyone is different when it comes to pain tolerance. There are a few factors that can influence how much a tattoo might hurt:
- Experience: People who’ve been tattooed before generally have a higher pain tolerance because they know what to expect. That initial adrenaline rush you get with your first tattoo? It can make things seem more painful than they are. The more relaxed you are, the less intense it’ll feel.
- Weight: Generally, areas with less fat tend to hurt more. Fat provides a nice cushion between the tattoo needle and your sensitive nerves and bones. But if you’re carrying more weight, you might have looser skin, which can also increase sensitivity. So, it varies from person to person.
Are there areas you should completely avoid?
In short, there aren’t many places you can’t get tattooed. Sure, some spots are more painful than others, and your tattoo artist might suggest avoiding certain areas. But even the more painful spots aren’t unbearable. A good artist will guide you through the process, and with the right prep, it can be a relaxing experience once the tattooing starts.
Thinking about getting your first or next tattoo? Contact INKORPORATED today! We’ll help you choose the best spot for your tattoo and make sure you’re as comfortable as possible throughout the process. Just give us a call or fill out our contact form, and we’ll be in touch soon!
