Before the session
How much does a tattoo hurt?
It depends on the spot, the technique, how long you sit and how you feel that day. A number on a scale therefore says little. What does help: knowing where it’s sensitive, and what you can do about it yourself.
How it feels
Most people describe lines as a sharp, warm scratching, and filling or shading as a duller, grinding feeling. After a while your body releases substances that dampen the pain, so it becomes more bearable for a time. In long sessions there often comes a moment after that when the skin is tired and everything feels sharper again. That is normal and exactly why large pieces are done in several sessions.
Spots that are often easier
The outside of the upper arm, the forearm, the calf and the outside of the thigh: there is more muscle or fat there, and less bone and nerve just under the skin. That’s why many people choose these spots for a first tattoo. These are general experiences, not guarantees.
Spots that are often harder
Ribs, breastbone, armpit, inside of the elbow, back of the knee, feet, hands, neck and head. The inside of the thigh and the belly are also sensitive for many people. Thin skin and bones close by make the difference, as do many nerves. With chest pieces one side can feel different from the other.
Technique plays a part
Fine lines go quickly and aren’t deep, but they are often done on spots where people are sensitive. Dotwork is a repetition of small pricks: it feels different from a line, and many people find it fine as long as it isn’t over bone. Solid black areas need more passes over the same skin and so become more sensitive as the session goes on.
What helps
Arriving well rested and well fed really is the most effective. Read the preparation for that. Breathing calmly, asking for short breaks before you’re worn out, and having something sweet within reach also help a lot. Say so if you feel light-headed: that isn’t weakness, and a tattoo artist would rather see it in time than too late. Distraction with music works well for many people, as long as you can keep still.
What you’d better avoid
Alcohol and drugs before a session are no solution and, for any serious studio, a reason not to start. Numbing creams are possible, but not just like that: some change the skin, and on large areas caution is needed. So always discuss this beforehand with the tattoo artist and, if in doubt, with a doctor or pharmacist. Painkillers that thin the blood, such as aspirin, are not a good idea without medical advice.
Periods and tiredness
Many people notice they are more sensitive just before or during their period, just as after a short night or a stressful time. That doesn’t mean you have to move the appointment. It is good to know, though, and you’re welcome to mention it beforehand.
Unsure about a spot?
Send a message with what you have in mind. There is almost always a spot or layout that suits you, and an honest conversation about it is part of designing. See design and placement.
Splitting up long sessions
A large piece doesn’t have to be done in one sitting. The longer a session lasts, the more sensitive the skin becomes, and the more your body has to recover. That’s why many tattoo artists and clients choose several shorter appointments with enough time in between. That’s no sign of weakness, and the result is often better for it. Say honestly beforehand how much you think you can handle, and agree how you’ll signal during the session that you want to stop for a moment. A small agreement about a hand signal or a word makes it easier to say it in time.
Frequently asked
What is the most painful spot?
That varies per person. Ribs, breastbone, feet, hands, armpit and the back of the knee are often mentioned.
Can I take a painkiller?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist. Medicines that thin the blood, such as aspirin, are not suitable without medical advice.
Can I ask for a break?
Always. Say it in time, then it works better for both of you.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Aftercare advice from the studio comes first.