The Los Ink's Tattoo Pain Map. Which Areas Hurt the Most (and the Least)?
Whether it's your first tattoo or you're adding to your collection, the same question always comes up, "How much will it hurt?" At Los Ink, we’re here to help you be prepared and have a great tattoo experience.
While everyone's pain threshold is different, there are general guidelines for what to expect when tattooing specific body parts. This is the Los Ink Tattoo Pain Map.
Tattoo Pain Factors
So, what makes certain areas more painful than others? First, areas with bones that are close to the surface tend to be more sensitive. This is because the skin is thin directly over the bone. Another factor is high nerve concentration. There are parts of the body that are packed with more nerve endings than others. This can make getting a tattoo feel a little more intense. Alternatively, areas with more fat and muscle padding, tend to be less painful as they provide a natural buffer.
The "Ouch!" Zones
These spots are often considered the most challenging. These areas are not for the faint of heart and are best suited for those with a higher pain tolerance or who already have several tattoos.
Rib Cage/Sternum: Little fat, thin skin, and directly over bone. Every vibration can feel amplified.
Head/Face/Ears: High concentration of nerve endings, thin skin, and close to bone. The sound and vibration can also be intense.
Armpit: Packed with nerves and incredibly sensitive. Some artists even avoid this area due to the pain level.
Spine: Direct contact with vertebrae and surrounding nerves makes this a sharp, often radiating pain.
Hands/Fingers/Feet/Ankles: Thin skin, numerous bones and nerve endings, plus constant movement (especially hands and feet) can make healing tricky and the initial process quite painful.
Elbows/Kneecaps (Directly on the Joint): Very bony with thin skin stretched tightly.
Inner Thigh/Groin: Highly sensitive due to nerve endings and thinner skin.
The "Bearable" Zones
These areas can still be uncomfortable, but are generally more manageable for most people.
Neck: Can vary. The sides and back might be more tolerable, but the front and areas near major arteries or the throat can be quite sensitive.
Stomach: The sensation can vary depending on individual body type and where on the stomach you're getting tattooed. It's often described as a dull ache or burning sensation.
Inner Bicep: Softer, looser skin than the outer bicep, with more nerve endings, can make it more sensitive.
Lower Back: While the upper back is often less painful, the lower back can have areas closer to the spine or hips that are more sensitive.
Calves: Generally well-padded with muscle, but areas directly over the shin bone can be sharper.
The "Easy Breezy" Zones
If you're new to tattoos or have a lower pain tolerance, these areas are often recommended for a smoother experience.
Outer Thigh: Ample muscle and fat provide a good cushion, making it one of the least painful and most popular spots for larger pieces.
Outer Upper Arm/Shoulder: Good muscle and fat padding, plus thicker skin and fewer nerve endings. A classic spot for a reason!
Forearm (Outer): Similar to the outer upper arm, it's a relatively fleshy area with good padding, making it quite tolerable for many.
Upper Back (Away from Spine): Lots of muscle and thick skin, especially the fleshy parts of the upper back, make this a comfortable canvas.
Buttocks: Plenty of natural padding here! This is a great location if you're looking for low visibility and low pain.
remember, Experiences May Vary
The Los Inks Pain map is a general guide. There are several other factors that can impact each individual experience. Your personal pain tolerance, tattoo size and detail, and your state of mind can greatly affect your tattoo experience. Note that longer sessions with more intricate work can mean more time under the needle. Being well-rested, hydrated, and relaxed can help as anxiety can heighten pain perception. Feel free to bring your headphones and listen to your favorite music or podcast. This will allow you to rest and relax, while your artist does all the hard work.
Ready to get inked?
No matter where you decide to get your next tattoo, the team at Los Inks, just outside of Nashville, TN, is here to make your experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We're more than happy to discuss your design, placement, and answer any questions you have about pain or aftercare.