How to describe the feeling of getting a tattoo and how painful Is It? These are questions we get regularly, but there is no single answer. To get a tattoo, needles pierce your skin thousands of times to deposit ink into various skin layers. Some people can relax through the process, while others find the pain almost unbearable. This really depends on your pain threshold and where you get the tattoo.

Tattoo placement

The placement of the tattoo plays one of the biggest roles in the amount of pain you experience. Areas with more muscle tissue and fat are generally less painful, such as the thigh or upper arm. However, this isn’t always the case. For instance, the calf can be one of the less pleasant places for a tattoo. Areas close to bones or nerves are more sensitive, including the ribs, ankles, bones, or the spine.

Size of the tattoo

The size and detail of the tattoo also matter. Smaller and simpler designs are finished quickly. A large tattoo can take several hours to multiple sessions over several days. When you’re tattooed for a longer period, you’ll notice that your skin becomes more irritated, which can change how the tattooing feels.

Tattoo style and artist

Then there’s the tattoo style and the artist’s technique. If you have several tattoos from different artists, you might have noticed that the experience can vary. Different tattoo styles also play a role. Artists may use single needles, multiple needles at once, or colored ink. These different techniques and styles affect the sensation of getting tattooed.

Your personal pain threshold

Everyone has a different pain threshold. What is bearable for one person might be unbearable for another. Mental and physical preparation can make a big difference! Make sure you’re well-rested, eat and drink sufficiently, and stay relaxed during the session. These factors can all help minimize the pain.

How to further reduce pain during a session

Make sure you breathe well and stay calm during the tattooing. This can help you relax and manage the pain. Also, feel free to take breaks. Let your tattoo artist know if you need one. We understand and are here to support you.