Which Areas Are the Least Painful to Get Tattooed?

Whether you're getting your first tattoo or adding another to your collection, you probably can't help but wonder how much pain you'll experience at your tattoo appointment. Pain is an inherent part of tattooing, but the severity of it can vary with the area you are getting tattooed. While some spots are notoriously painful, such as the ribs or hands, other areas are known to be much more tolerable. In this article, we will discuss which areas are the least painful to get tattooed, and explain why these spots hurt less.

Which Areas Hurt the Least for A First Tattoo?

endings The level of pain during a tattoo session can be determined by three factors. The first is the amount of nerve endings in the area getting tattooed. Areas of the body that contain clusters of nerves, such as hands and feet, tend to be more sensitive, and therefore more painful to get tattooed. Areas that are padded by more muscle and fat are typically less painful. On the other hand, areas where the skin is thin can be more painful, as the needle vibrates closer to the bone. Tattoos on places that bend or stretch such as elbows and knees can also be extremely uncomfortable.

The front of the thigh is a generally less painful area for tattoos. This area usually has thicker skin, more fat, and more muscle than other areas of the body. Since thighs are relatively large areas, they are often utilized for medium to large-sized tattoos.

One of the most common areas to get tattooed is also one of the least painful: the upper arm. This area is a good combination of muscular and  fatty, which a nice cushion between the needle and bone. Most people describe the pain level as a dull scratch. However, everyone's pain tolerance is different, and every artist tattoos differently, so your experience may vary.

Other areas that are relatively less painful to tattoo include forearms and calves. Not only do these spot have thick skin and less nerve endings, but they are also fairly flat, which makes them easy for artists to work on.

How to Make a Tattoo Session Less Painful

One of the best ways to avoid pain during a tattoo session is to be hydrated. This makes the skin healthier and easier to tattoo. You should also get a good night of sleep before your tattoo appointment, as tiredness can increase your pain sensitivity. It is also highly recommended that you refrain from alcohol and caffeine before getting a tattoo, as they can thin your blood and increase bleeding. There are numbing creams that can be purchased, some of which seem to work well, according to those who use them. However, if you intend to use a numbing cream prior to a tattoo, please make sure to discuss it with your artist beforehand.

Schedule Your First Tattoo With American Vintage OC Today!

If you are a newcomer to the world of tattooing, you might want to consider getting your first tattoo in one of these less-painful areas. You should take your time thinking about what tattoo you want, and do your research on various styles and artists. You can view the portfolios of the artists at American Vintage Tattoo in Orange County, California, or visit us online to book your first tattoo appointment in Orange County today.