Tattoo pain

Tattoo pain: the areas that hurt the most, and how to get through your session well

"Does it hurt?" It's the question we get asked most before a first tattoo. The honest answer: yes, a little, and much less than people usually imagine. The sensation is like a repeated scratch or a mild burn. It depends mostly on where on the body it is, how long the session lasts and how you feel on the day.

The least painful areas

• The outside of the forearm and upper arm, the shoulder: thick skin, few nerve endings, the ideal placement for a first tattoo.
• The calf and the outside of the thigh: plenty of muscle under the skin, the sensation stays bearable over long sessions.
• The upper back: a large area, fairly thick skin, away from the spine.

The most sensitive areas

• Where the bone is just under the skin: ribs, sternum, spine, ankles, top of the foot, elbows, knees, collarbones.
• Where the skin is thin: inside of the arm and wrist, crook of the elbow, back of the knee, neck.
• Areas with lots of nerves: hands, fingers, armpits, stomach, inner thighs.

A sensitive area is not a forbidden area: ribs or feet can be tattooed very well, you just need to prepare for it. The tattoo artist tells you in advance what to expect, and can split a large piece over several sessions.

What changes the sensation

• Duration: the first few minutes come as a surprise, then the body gets used to it. After a few hours, the skin becomes more sensitive: a large piece is often done over several sessions.
• How you feel: tiredness, hunger and stress make the session harder.
• The type of work: for some people, outlining is felt more than filling in, and for others it's the opposite. Everyone experiences it in their own way.

Preparing well to hurt less

• Sleep well the night before, and eat before you come.
• No alcohol or aspirin in the 24 hours beforehand: they thin the blood.
• Wear comfortable clothes that easily expose the area to be tattooed.
• Breathe calmly and say so if you need a break: you can ask for one at any time.

For a first tattoo, start with a gentle area and a reasonable size: see our Small tattoos and First tattoo pages.

The house's styles

• Japanese
• Old school
• New school and neo-traditional
• Trash polka and blackwork
• Graphic and geometric
• Tribal and Polynesian
• Ornamental and dotwork
• Fine line, minimalist and lettering

Frequently asked questions

Where does a tattoo hurt the least?

On the outside of the forearm and upper arm, the shoulder, the calf and the outside of the thigh: the skin is thick there and the bone is far from the surface.

Where does a tattoo hurt the most?

Where the bone is just under the skin (ribs, sternum, spine, foot, ankle, knee, elbow) and where the skin is thin or has many nerves (inside of the arm, neck, hands, armpits).

How long does the pain last?

During the session only. Afterwards, the area is tender for a few days, like sunburn, then it itches as it heals: whatever you do, don't scratch.

Can I take a break during the session?

Yes, at any time. Just tell the tattoo artist.

Should I take a painkiller beforehand?

No aspirin or alcohol in the 24 hours before the session, as they thin the blood. For any medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.