The age-old question for anyone considering ink: “Do tattoos hurt?” The simple answer is yes, tattoos do hurt. But how much do they hurt, and more importantly, How Bad Does A Tattoo Hurt Compared To Other Pain you might have experienced? It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer, as tattoo pain is subjective and varies wildly from person to person. Understanding what influences tattoo pain can help you mentally prepare and choose the best placement for your new body art.
Several factors contribute to the level of pain you’ll experience during a tattoo session. These include your individual pain tolerance, the specific location on your body being tattooed, the style and complexity of the tattoo, and even the technique of your tattoo artist. You might hear some people say tattoos are barely painful, and for them, that might be true. Conversely, others find even small tattoos incredibly uncomfortable.
We’ve witnessed clients breeze through extensive, multi-hour tattoo sessions with barely a wince. On the other hand, we’ve also seen individuals struggle with the pain of tiny, simple tattoos. The intensity of the work also matters; tattoos with bold outlines and heavy shading or color packing will generally cause more discomfort because the needles work the skin more extensively.
However, the most significant difference in pain level comes from the tattoo location. Getting tattooed on sensitive areas like the feet or ribs is almost universally reported as more painful than areas like the forearm or shoulder.
One of the best ways to alleviate anxiety and mentally prepare for your tattoo appointment is to familiarize yourself with tattoo pain charts. These charts offer a visual representation of how painful different body areas are likely to be, relative to each other. Many pain charts are available online, but we found some lacking in detail and accuracy. That’s why we decided to create our own comprehensive tattoo pain chart.
Below, you’ll find our meticulously designed tattoo pain chart, offering a detailed breakdown of tattoo pain by body area. Following the chart, we delve deeper into each area, providing more context and information to help you understand what to expect. This guide aims to answer your burning questions about tattoo pain and help you make informed decisions about your tattoo journey.
Tattoo Pain Chart
Tattoo pain chart showcasing pain levels across different body areas, rated from 1 to 10, with 10 being the most painful.
| Area | Score |
|---|---|
| Head | 9 |
| Face | 7 |
| Neck | 7 |
| Shoulder/Outer Arm | 4 |
| Inner Bicep | 6 |
| Armpit | 9 |
| Elbow Ditch/Outer Elbow Tattoo | 8 |
| Forearm/Lower Arm | 3 |
| Hands/Fingers | 8 |
| Upper/Middle/Lower Back | 5-8 |
| General Back | 5 |
| Chest | 7 |
| Rib Cage | 9 |
| Under Boob/Sternum | 7 |
| Stomach | 5 |
| Groin Area | 8 |
| Butt | 8 |
| Thigh | 4-7 |
| Knee Ditch/Knee | 10 |
| Calves/Shins | 6 |
| Feet/Ankles/Toes | 9 |
Detailed Tattoo Pain Area Descriptions
Head Tattoo Pain – 9 out of 10: Like “Skull Drilling”
Head tattoos are widely considered extremely painful, rating a 9 out of 10 on our pain scale. This intense pain is due to the head’s dense network of nerves and lack of substantial fat or muscle to cushion the needle. The head is essentially a nerve center, housing the cranial nerves that connect your brain to your head and neck.
Many describe the sensation as feeling like “having your skull drilled on.” Combined with the often-limited social acceptance of head tattoos, this location is definitely not for the faint of heart, or those with a low pain threshold. This high pain level firmly places head tattoos at the top of our tattoo pain chart.
Face Tattoo Pain – 7 out of 10: Simplistic Designs Lessen the Intensity
Face tattoos, surprisingly, aren’t as excruciating as some might imagine, earning a 7 out of 10 pain score, depending on the specific area. The relatively lower pain level is partly because face tattoos are often simpler in design, lacking the heavy detail and saturation common in other areas.
Pain levels can also vary significantly across different parts of the face. Areas like the forehead, chin, nose, and cheekbone tend to be less painful. However, the cheeks and the delicate area just under the eyelids are considerably more sensitive. Tattoo artists often stretch the skin in these areas to ensure proper ink deposit, which can add to the discomfort.
The Neck – 7 out of 10: Front Neck More Painful Than Sides and Back
Neck tattoo pain is somewhat location-dependent. The front of the neck is very painful, while the back and sides are surprisingly more tolerable, averaging a 7 out of 10 overall. The neck, in general, is not as nerve-rich as some other body parts, and the skin is relatively thick compared to more sensitive areas.
However, the front of the neck is a different story. It has less muscle mass, thinner skin, and a higher concentration of nerve endings. Furthermore, cartilage and bone are located close to the skin surface in the front neck region. Healing a neck tattoo, especially on the front, can also be more challenging due to the constant movement and friction in this high-torsion area.
Shoulder/Outer Arm Tattoo Pain – 4 out of 10: A Great Choice for First Timers
The shoulder and outer arm are considered relatively low-pain areas for tattoos, scoring a 4 out of 10. This makes them excellent locations for first tattoos, especially if you want to minimize pain while having a visible tattoo. The presence of fat and muscle acts as a buffer against tattoo pain, making the shoulder and outer arm an ideal spot for many.
Inner Bicep Tattoo Pain – 6 out of 10: Sensitive Nerves and Thin Skin
Tattooing the inner bicep is moderately painful, rated at 6 out of 10. This area is home to several sensitive nerves running down the underside of the arm. Coupled with the thin, delicate skin of the inner bicep, it becomes a tender area for tattooing. This sensitivity is a major reason why many sleeve and quarter-sleeve tattoos often leave the inner arm relatively unfilled.
Healing an inner bicep tattoo can also be somewhat challenging due to the constant rubbing and friction against the body. However, using a shear-reduction tattoo bandage like Saniderm can significantly ease the healing process in this area.
Armpit Tattoo Pain – 9 out of 10: Intense Pain and Difficult Healing
Armpit tattoos are notoriously painful, scoring a 9 out of 10, and are also notoriously difficult to heal. The intense pain stems from the armpit’s incredibly sensitive skin, which sits directly above the lymph nodes. These nodes can swell rapidly during the tattoo process, leading to significant pain and complicating healing.
The armpit also contains a high density of nerve endings, further amplifying the pain. Healing armpit tattoos is also challenging because of the constant friction and moisture in the area. Using a breathable, shear-reducing bandage like Saniderm is highly recommended for healing armpit tattoos. Avoid deodorant, tight clothing, and shaving the tattooed armpit for at least two weeks to promote proper healing.
Elbow Ditch/Outer Elbow Tattoo Pain – 8 out of 10: Nerve Sensitivity and Bone Contact
Tattooing the elbow region is very painful, rated at 8 out of 10. Two of the three major nerves in your arm pass directly through the elbow ditch. The elbow ditch offers minimal padding between the tattoo needle and these sensitive nerves. Stimulating these nerves during tattooing can cause numbness or radiating pain down the arm.
While still painful, the outer elbow avoids the direct nerve issues of the elbow ditch. However, you’ll likely experience more sensation from the needle contacting bone in this area.
Forearm/Lower Arm Tattoo Pain – 3 out of 10: One of the Least Painful Locations
The forearm or lower arm is one of the least painful places to get a tattoo, scoring just 3 out of 10. It’s also an ideal canvas for tattoo artists due to the smooth, relatively flat surface. The outer forearm is generally less sensitive than the inner forearm due to the radial nerve running through the inner arm, but overall, both areas are well-tolerated.
Hands/Fingers Tattoo Pain – 8 out of 10: Bony, Nerve-Rich, and Hard to Heal
Hand and finger tattoos are quite painful, scoring 8 out of 10. These areas are bony, and every major nerve in your body terminates in your extremities. Hand and finger tattoos also endure significant wear and tear daily, making them notoriously difficult to heal.
Furthermore, hands and fingers are prone to infection due to constant exposure to contaminants. The activity and friction in these areas often necessitate multiple tattoo sessions and touch-ups. Tattoos on hands and fingers also tend to fade more quickly than in other locations.
Upper/Middle/Lower Back Tattoo Pain – 5-8 out of 10: Spine and Shoulder Blades are Hotspots
Back tattoo pain varies from 5 to 8 out of 10 depending on the specific area. The spine is very painful, and the shoulder blades are fairly painful. However, the rest of the back is generally not too bad. The back is a popular location for large, detailed tattoos with heavy shading and color, which can increase the overall pain regardless of the exact placement.
The shoulder blades are bony, so pain levels spike when the needle hits bone. The spine is particularly sensitive due to the concentration of bones and nerves, with the spinal cord located close to the surface. If pain is a concern, positioning tattoo designs off to the sides of the spine can make the back tattooing experience significantly more comfortable.
General Back Tattoo Pain- 5 out of 10: Large Canvas, Moderate Pain
As mentioned, the back is a prime area for larger, more intricate tattoos. While the overall pain can be influenced by the size and detail of the design, general back tattoos are typically in the low-to-moderate pain range, around a 5 out of 10. The skin on the back is thicker and has fewer nerve endings compared to more sensitive areas.
Chest Tattoo Pain – 7 out of 10: Gender Differences and Nipple Sensitivity
Chest tattoo pain is rated at 7 out of 10, but the experience can differ between men and women. Women often have more fatty tissue in the chest area, providing some cushioning and making it relatively less painful for them. However, men, with less natural padding, tend to experience more discomfort in this area.
The chest still contains a decent number of nerve endings, and bony areas like the collarbone can be quite unpleasant to tattoo. It’s also crucial to mention nipple tattoos, which are notoriously painful – arguably ranking near the top of the tattoo pain chart.
Rib Cage Tattoo Pain – 9 out of 10: Thin Skin, Bone Proximity, Lingering Pain
The rib cage is widely recognized as one of the most painful areas to get tattooed, scoring a 9 out of 10. This high pain level is primarily due to the thin layer of skin covering the ribs, which typically has minimal fat or muscle.
There’s very little tissue separating the tattoo needle from the rib bones. Additionally, pain in this area seems to linger longer after tattooing compared to other locations, likely due to the thin, sensitive skin.
Under Boob/Sternum Tattoo Pain – 7 out of 10: Thin Skin and Bone, Difficult Healing
Under boob or sternum tattoos are quite painful, rated at 7 out of 10, and can have an uncomfortable healing process. The sternum, like the ribs, is covered by thin skin with little muscle or fat for cushioning. Again, there’s minimal separation between the tattoo needle and the sternum bone. Sternum tattoos often extend onto the ribs, compounding the pain.
Healing sternum tattoos can be particularly challenging, especially for women who may find wearing a bra uncomfortable during healing. It’s recommended to avoid bras for at least 24 hours and ideally for up to a week. Stomach sleepers may also experience healing difficulties due to friction. Shear-reduction bandages like Saniderm are highly recommended for sternum tattoo aftercare.
Stomach Tattoo Pain – 5 out of 10: Padding and Easy Canvas, Healing Considerations
Stomach tattoos are relatively less painful compared to other areas, scoring a 5 out of 10. Most people have some degree of extra padding on their stomach, and there are no bones or cartilage to contend with. The stomach also provides a relatively easy surface for tattoo artists to work on. This makes it a good option for larger tattoos, especially for those with moderate pain tolerance. However, like sternum and rib tattoos, stomach tattoos can be challenging to heal for stomach sleepers.
Groin Area Tattoo Pain – 8 out of 10: Sensitive Area, Difficult Healing
Groin area tattoos are very painful, rated at 8 out of 10, and also difficult to heal. The genitals are among the most sensitive organs, and even the surrounding groin area, while seemingly meatier, is still highly sensitive.
This sensitivity is due to the high concentration of nerves associated with the genitals extending into the groin area. The groin is also located near lymph nodes, which contributes to both pain and healing challenges. Healing groin tattoos can be tedious due to constant friction from underwear and clothing. Wearing loose, soft clothing or going commando for a few days post-tattoo is advisable to aid healing.
Butt Tattoo Pain – 8 out of 10 (Updated): More Painful Than Initially Thought
UPDATE: Since the original writing, the author had a butt tattoo and revised the pain rating.
“When initially researching for this article, I had limited personal tattoo experience and relied on various sources. After getting my own butt tattooed, I can confidently say that my original pain rating of 3 out of 10 was FAR too low!
My butt tattoo experience was 1) extremely painful, and 2) made more challenging by the buttock muscles’ tendency to flinch and clench during the process. This required significant concentration from both myself and the artist to ensure accurate ink placement.”
The updated pain rating for butt tattoos is now 8 out of 10, reflecting the author’s firsthand experience.
Thigh Tattoo Pain – 4-7 out of 10: Varies by Thigh Area
Thigh tattoo pain ranges from 4 to 7 out of 10, depending on the specific area of the thigh. The thigh contains major nerves, making some areas more sensitive than others. The inner thigh is generally the most sensitive part of the thigh.
The least painful areas are the top of the thigh and over the quadriceps. The hips fall somewhere in the middle of the pain scale, depending on how bony your hips are. If you have a lower pain tolerance, it’s best to avoid the inner and back of the thigh.
How long does a thigh tattoo take?
The duration of a thigh tattoo varies greatly, from an hour upwards. A black and white upper thigh tattoo outline might take 3-4 hours, with additional hours for filling, depending on size and complexity.
What to wear when getting a thigh tattoo?
Avoid tight or restrictive clothing like jeans. Be prepared to remove clothing that obstructs the tattoo area. Consider wearing black or older clothes in case of ink stains.
Knee Ditch/Knee Tattoo Pain – 10 out of 10: Arguably the Most Painful
Knee ditch and knee tattoos are arguably the most painful, scoring a maximum 10 out of 10. Expect intense pain, especially in the knee ditch. The sciatic nerve, one of the body’s largest nerves, runs down the back of the leg and through the knee ditch. The skin layer separating this nerve from the tattoo needle is extremely thin. The knee area is also challenging to heal due to constant bending and rubbing. For these reasons, the knee ditch/knee area tops our tattoo pain chart for pain.
Calves/Shins Tattoo Pain – 6 out of 10: Shin Bone Sensitivity
Calf and shin tattoos are moderately painful, around 6 out of 10, but the pain level increases significantly when tattooing directly over the shin bone. The side of the calf, above the ankle and below the knee, is a more tolerable area.
However, the back of the calf, especially closer to the knee, can be quite painful. The shins are bony and house a significant nerve, making them a tender area. The combination of nerve endings and close-to-surface bone makes shin tattoos more painful than calf tattoos.
Feet/Ankles/Toes Tattoo Pain – 9 out of 10: Delicate, Bony, and Hard to Heal
Foot, ankle, and toe tattoos are very painful, scoring 9 out of 10, and are among the most delicate areas to tattoo. They are also difficult to heal due to constant rubbing from socks and shoes. Nerves in the feet, toes, and ankles are uniquely focused on motion and balance, making them highly tactile and sensitive. There is virtually no fat or muscle padding in these areas.
This lack of padding exposes nerves directly to the tattoo needle. The Achilles tendon, towards the arch of the foot, further increases nerve concentration, making ankles particularly unpleasant to tattoo. Shear-reducing bandages like Saniderm are strongly recommended for healing foot tattoos.
Factors That Affect Tattoo Pain Tolerance
Several factors can influence your individual tattoo pain experience and tolerance.
Factors affecting tattoo pain tolerance include:
Experience:
When you experience tattoo pain, your body releases adrenaline and endorphins to help manage the discomfort. These natural chemicals can create a pain-relieving effect, potentially explaining why some find tattoo pain almost pleasurable, similar to a “runner’s high.” These natural pain relievers tend to diminish after 3-4 hours of tattooing, so prepare accordingly for longer sessions. Knowing what to expect can also increase your pain tolerance, making resources like this guide helpful!
Gender:
Research suggests that biological sex may play a role in pain perception. Some studies indicate that individuals who are biologically female may experience pain more intensely than those who are biologically male. While individual experiences vary, gender appears to be a factor in pain experience and tolerance.
Mood and Mental Health:
The connection between mental health and physical well-being is increasingly recognized. Studies show that individuals experiencing stress, sadness, or depression often have a lower pain threshold compared to those with better mental well-being.
Lifestyle Factors:
Lifestyle choices can also impact pain tolerance. Research suggests that smokers often have a lower pain tolerance, while physically fit athletes may report a higher pain tolerance.
What Does Tattoo Pain Feel Like?
Describing the Sensations of Tattoo Pain
As mentioned, tattoo pain is subjective and influenced by various personal and tattoo-specific factors. However, tattoo artists recognize common descriptions of tattoo pain. Understanding these sensations can help you anticipate the experience and identify anything unusual during your tattoo session.
Common types of tattoo pain include:
Dull Tattoo Pain: Background Ache
Dull pain is often described as a manageable, background ache. The initial stress and anxiety, especially for first-timers, can trigger the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can have a numbing effect, pushing the pain into a dull background sensation.
While the intensity of pain may fluctuate, distracting yourself with conversation, entertainment, or music can help maintain the pain at a dull, background level.
Burning Tattoo Pain: Raw and Hot
Burning pain feels like prolonged heat pressing against your skin. It occurs when the skin becomes raw and the tattoo needle repeatedly pierces the same area over extended periods. Larger, densely designed tattoos are more likely to cause burning pain. Anecdotally, individuals with more subcutaneous fat may also experience increased burning pain.
Scratching Tattoo Pain: Sharp and Irritating
Scratching pain is a common sensation, often described as a sharp needle or claw scratching across the skin. It’s generally more irritating than intensely painful. Scratching pain can intensify with multiple needles or prolonged work in the same area, especially during shading.
Stinging Tattoo Pain: Sharp and Penetrating
Stinging pain is described as sharp, pricking, and more intense, feeling like it penetrates deeper into the skin. It’s more common with outlines, fine details, or on areas with thin or tight skin.
While some stinging is normal, excessively sharp or prolonged stinging might indicate the artist isNeed to finish rewriting the section and then move to the next sections. Focus on making the language clear, engaging, and SEO-friendly. Make sure to incorporate LSI keywords and maintain the helpful tone of the original. After completing the content rewrite, I need to generate alt text for the image and review the entire article for formatting and SEO compliance.pushing the needle too deep. Overly deep needle penetration can cause a tattoo blowout, where ink spreads beneath the skin, resulting in pain and blurred lines in the tattoo design.
Vibrating Tattoo Pain: Bone Resonance
Vibrating pain can occur when tattooing bony areas like elbows, ribs, ankles, or wrists. The rapid vibration of the needle above the bone can resonate with nerves in the bone, transmitting a vibrating sensation. Individuals with less fat covering their bones are more prone to this type of pain.
Other factors that could affect tattoo pain
Beyond the types of pain, remember these factors can also influence your overall experience:
- Sex: As mentioned, biological sex may influence pain perception.
- Tattoo Experience: Experienced individuals may psychologically and physiologically handle pain better.
- Age: Skin elasticity and sensitivity can change with age.
- Weight: Body fat can act as a cushion, potentially lessening pain in some areas.
Preparing For Your Tattoo and Pain Reduction Advice
Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to enhance your tattoo experience and minimize pain. Prioritize these tips in the weeks and days leading up to your appointment:
Hydrate: Increase your water intake in the weeks leading up to your tattoo. Hydrated skin is a better canvas for tattoo ink, leading to easier ink absorption and less trauma to the skin. This can reduce the number of needle passes required, potentially minimizing pain.
Eat Well: Consume a balanced meal 1-2 hours before your tattoo session. Bring a glucose-rich snack like fruit or fruit juice to consume during longer sessions. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for pain management, preventing chills, and avoiding shock, especially during extended tattoo sessions.
Avoid Painkillers and Alcohol: Do not take painkillers or consume alcohol before your tattoo. These substances can thin your blood, making the tattooing process more difficult for the artist and increasing the risk of complications. They also won’t significantly reduce tattoo pain.
Communicate with Your Artist: Openly discuss your pain tolerance with your tattoo artist. This allows them to suggest optimal placement for your design, considering your comfort. If you are in significant pain, it becomes harder for the artist to work accurately because involuntary movements can compromise the tattoo quality.
Tattoo Pain FAQ
Is Shading As Painful As Outlining Tattoo?
While individual experiences vary, many people report that outlining is slightly more painful than shading. Outlining often involves more pressure and focused lines, while shading is typically spread over a larger area with less intense pressure per point.
What Is The Most Painful Place To Get Tattooed?
Bony areas with thin skin and numerous nerve endings are generally the most painful. These include the ribs, spine, fingers, shins, and knees, especially the knee ditch.
What Should I Do After Getting A Tattoo?
Following proper aftercare instructions is crucial. This includes gently washing the tattoo with mild soap and water and applying a recommended tattoo aftercare product or antibacterial ointment daily, as advised by your artist.
What is the Least Painful Area To Get a Tattoo?
Areas with thicker skin, more muscle or fat, and fewer nerve endings are generally the least painful. These include the outer shoulders, outer thighs, and forearms.
When Will The Tattoo Stop Hurting?
Intense tattoo pain typically subsides immediately after the tattoo session. However, you can expect to experience dull pain, soreness, and tenderness in the tattooed area for 3-7 days afterward, similar to a sunburn or bruise.
Can You Get Sick After Getting A Tattoo?
Proper aftercare is essential to prevent skin infections and ensure proper healing. The tattoo process creates an open wound, making it vulnerable to bacteria. Risk factors for infection include non-sterile practices during tattooing, unsanitary environments, and inadequate aftercare. Symptoms of a skin infection can include redness, excessive itching, swelling, discharge, and in severe cases, fever.
Allergic reactions to tattoo ink, though less common, can also occur. Redness, severe itching, or hives might indicate an allergic reaction, often to pigments in the ink, particularly red inks or those containing plastics.
Thank you for reading our detailed guide to tattoo pain! We hope this information helps you better understand how bad a tattoo might hurt compared to other pain experiences and prepares you for your tattoo journey. For more tattoo aftercare tips and information, follow us on Instagram and Facebook and reach out with any further questions.
