What is the least painful spot to get a tattoo?

Author: Randy Armstrong IV  |  Last update: Saturday, May 24, 2025

Getting tattooed on the arm and upper back is only moderately painful compared to the head, armpit, and rib cage. While you should still expect to feel much discomfort, getting inked in these areas is tolerable for most people.

What place hurts the least for a tattoo?

The least painful places to get a tattoo on your body are typically areas with a higher concentration of muscle and a lower density of nerve endings. These body areas offer a more comfortable experience for many individuals. Some of the least painful spots include the outer shoulder, upper arm, calf, and thigh.

Where is the best place to get a tattoo that doesn't hurt?

The least painful places to get a tattoo on your body are typically areas with a higher concentration of muscle and a lower density of nerve endings. These body areas offer a more comfortable experience for many individuals. Some of the least painful spots include the outer shoulder, upper arm, calf, and thigh.

Is there a painless tattoo?

The BlowDart Tattoo System takes away how much it can hurt to traditionally receive a tattoo. Using air pressure instead of a needle to push ink into the skin for a permanent tattoo is the safe and painless new way to get INKED.

Where is the best place to get a first tattoo?

Before choosing a location, assess your pain tolerance. The best lower pain areas are the outer arm, upper thigh and calves. These are all good spots to consider for a first tattoo.

5 LEAST Painful Tattoo Placements

How to make tattoos hurt less?

Just remember to use numbing cream before starting your session; take breaks throughout; choose smaller tattoos over large ones; avoid sensitive areas; and use ice both during and after your session! With these tips in mind, you'll be on your way towards getting the perfect traditional tattoo in no time—painlessly!

Where not to get a tattoo?

Areas like the feet, hands, stomach, chest, elbow, lips, and inner ear are not good tattoo locations. It's essential to consider a few things when choosing a proper placement, such as pain intensity, practicality, and visibility.

Where is not sore to get a tattoo?

Less painful areas to get tattooed include parts of the body with thicker skin and more fat, including the:
  • Forearm.
  • Hands.
  • Shoulder.
  • Parts of the back.
  • Back of arm.
  • Stomach.
  • Outer arm.
  • Outer thigh.

How much to tip a tattoo artist?

As with tipping waitstaff, 20-25% percent is a good standard. An easy way to include tipping in your budget is to add it in when getting the estimated costs for having your work done. So, if your tattoo is expected to cost $200, with a 20-percent tip, that's $240.

What can I take before a tattoo to ease the pain?

Avaliani recommends taking three or four Ibuprofen tablets an hour before your appointment so that your pain tolerance is higher by the time you feel the needle (which, by the way, looks more like the tip of a pen than a needle, in case that word scares you like it scared me).

Does numbing cream work for tattoos?

There are many benefits to using a tattoo numbing cream before getting a tattoo. They help reduce the pain you feel during the tattooing process and speed up the healing time. A tattoo without a numbing cream applied beforehand can take longer because you may need more breaks. The session can cause quite a bit of pain.

What is the hardest area to tattoo?

Areas that move constantly (think hands, elbows, knees, and ribs) don't just hurt more. They also heal worse, making them some of the hardest spots to tattoo.

How bearable is tattoo pain?

Getting a tattoo is often compared to a cat repeatedly scratching you. Though it's not the most intense pain ever, it might make you wanna hiss – especially if your artist uses multiple needles, like when shading. This also tends to happen away from bony or ultra-sensitive areas. Sharp or stinging pain.

What is the best first tattoo to get?

Outlines are typically starting points for tattoos. Script or cursive tattoos are also among the best ideas for first tattoos. They are typically meaningful to those who get them and are a great way to start your tattoo journey.

What to do before a tattoo appointment?

What to do before getting a Tattoo
  1. Get a Good Night's Sleep. The last thing you want is to come in and be completely exhausted for your tattoo session. ...
  2. Stay Hydrated. ...
  3. Shave. ...
  4. Shower. ...
  5. Moisturize your Skin. ...
  6. Eat and Bring Snacks. ...
  7. Dress for you Session. ...
  8. Do not show up Intoxicated.

Do you tip for a $1000 tattoo?

As we state generally “tips are not required, but appreciated “ because most tattoo artists in a shop minus the owner are making 50-60% of the total cost… on a $1000 tattoo (most likely multiple sessions) I would tip at least $100-$150 for every session done.. so roughly I'd say average a good tip on a tattoo that's ...

Why do tattoo artists prefer cash?

Many tattoo artists prefer to be paid in cash as it simplifies the transaction and allows for a seamless commission payment to the studio. Invoicing or involving banks and payment sites can introduce unnecessary complications to an already busy workflow.

Can you drink after getting a tattoo?

No, do not drink alcohol for 48 hours after getting a tattoo. In fact, you shouldn't drink for 24 hours before getting a tattoo either. Your new tattoo will be considered an open wound, and alcohol delays the body's healing process.

Where is the most painful place to get a needle?

It is generally areas with less fat and thinner skin that hurt the most, such as the rib cage and the knees, as there is less cushion for the needle. Areas with a high concentration of nerve endings, such as the armpit, are also notorious for being quite painful.

Is there a painless way to get a tattoo?

HUSH Numbing Spray

Anesthetics are introduced to the skin by way of tiny drops or mists. It works immediately upon skin contact, making it a perfect product for keeping a painless tattoo while the artist concentrates on creating a mind-blowing masterpiece!

Where do tattoos hurt the least for females?

Getting tattooed on the arm and upper back is only moderately painful compared to the head, armpit, and rib cage. While you should still expect to feel much discomfort, getting inked in these areas is tolerable for most people.

What to never get tattooed?

If you don't want to regret your body art, read this list of tattoos that you should never get.
  • White Ink Tattoos. White ink tattoos are the latest trend. ...
  • Face Tattoos. ...
  • Partner's Name. ...
  • A Cheap Tattoo. ...
  • Any Tattoo While Intoxicated. ...
  • An Offensive Tattoo. ...
  • What to Do If You Don't Like Your Tattoo.

What not to ask a tattoo artist?

5 Things You Should Never Say to a Tattoo Artist
  • “Can't you give me a discount?”
  • “Can I bring my friends in?”
  • “Can't you just make it work?”
  • “Can you please copy this tattoo?”
  • “Can you do this while I'm drunk?”

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