Do Tattoos Hurt? What It Really Feels Like
This is probably one of the most common questions we hear at Tabula Rasa Tattoo Studio in Chesterfield. It is also one of the questions people sometimes feel nervous about asking.
The honest answer is that tattoos can be uncomfortable, but the level of pain varies from person to person. It depends on the area being tattooed, the style of work, how you are feeling on the day and your own pain tolerance.
Hopefully this guide will help answer the question as honestly and clearly as possible, so you know what to expect before your appointment.
Does Getting a Tattoo Hurt?
Generally speaking, tattoos can feel painful in some areas and surprisingly manageable in others.
There is no “one size fits all” answer when it comes to tattoo pain. Some people find the experience much easier than expected, while others find certain areas more intense.
Clients often describe the feeling as:
- a sharp scratch
- a warm burning sensation
- a dragging feeling
- a vibrating or stinging sensation
Most of the time, clients tell us the feeling is much better than they expected.
Why Tattoo Pain Can Feel Different
Even if the tattooing technique only changes slightly, the sensation can feel very different depending on where you are being tattooed.
An area that feels completely manageable on one part of the body may feel much sharper somewhere else.
This is because different areas have different levels of:
- skin thickness
- sensitivity
- nerve endings
- movement
- exposure
- bone or muscle underneath
Everybody is different, so pain levels are always personal.
Less Sensitive Areas To Get Tattooed
People often find areas with thicker skin or more padding easier to sit through.
Common areas that may feel more manageable include:
- outer forearm
- upper arm
- outer arm
- outer thigh
- shoulder
- outer ankle
These areas are often popular choices for a first tattoo because many people find them easier than more sensitive placements.
However, tattoo pain is subjective. What feels easy for one person may still feel sore for someone else.
More Sensitive Areas To Get Tattooed
Areas with thinner skin, less padding or more nerve endings can feel more sensitive.
These can include:
- throat
- inner bicep
- ribs
- stomach
- behind the knee
- sternum
- inner ankle
- inner wrist
- feet
These areas are not impossible to tattoo, and many people sit through them perfectly well, but they are worth considering carefully if you are getting your first tattoo.
If you are unsure, your artist can talk you through placement options and help you choose an area that feels right for you.
Things That Can Affect Tattoo Pain On The Day
Believe it or not, the way you feel on the day can affect tattoo pain just as much as the placement.
Your tattoo may feel harder to sit through if you are:
- tired
- dehydrated
- hungry
- run down
- unwell
- stressed
- recovering from illness
That is why we always recommend getting a good night’s sleep, eating before your appointment and staying hydrated.
Even if you feel okay mentally, your body is still doing a lot of work during a tattoo session.
Periods, Illness and Pain Tolerance
Pain tolerance can also change depending on what your body is already dealing with.
For some people, being on their period, especially at the start of their cycle, can make tattoo pain feel more intense.
The same can happen if you are coming down with a cold, recovering from one or generally feeling under the weather.
If your body is already working hard, getting tattooed may feel more difficult than it usually would.
If you are unsure whether to go ahead with your appointment, it is always better to speak to your artist first.
Should I Use Numbing Cream Before a Tattoo?
We understand why people consider numbing cream, especially if they are worried about pain.
However, at Tabula Rasa Tattoo Studio we do not recommend using numbing cream before your appointment.
There are a few reasons for this.
Numbing creams can affect the texture of the skin, which may make the tattoo harder to apply cleanly. They can also wear off during the appointment, which can make the pain feel more intense once the numbness fades.
Some numbing products may also contain ingredients that are unclear or unsuitable for your skin, which can increase the risk of irritation or a reaction.
Instead, we use appropriate products during the tattoo process where needed to help soothe the skin and make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Tattooing Over Scar Tissue and Stretch Marks
Tattooing over scar tissue or stretch marks can feel different depending on the person and the type of skin being tattooed.
In our experience, some scarred areas can be surprisingly painless, especially where there has been nerve damage. This can sometimes happen with surgical scars, including some mastectomy scars.
However, other scars can be more sensitive.
It depends on the type of scarring, how old it is, how the skin has healed and how the area feels for the individual client.
If you are thinking about tattooing over scar tissue or stretch marks, it is always best to speak to your artist first. They can look at the area, talk through what may be possible and explain what to expect.
Can You Take Breaks During a Tattoo?
Yes, absolutely.
If you need a break during your tattoo, just let your artist know.
Breaks are completely normal, especially during longer sessions or more sensitive placements. You can take time to have a drink, eat a snack, stretch or simply breathe for a moment.
At our Chesterfield studio, we want clients to feel comfortable and supported throughout the whole process.
There is no pressure to “sit like a rock” or pretend something is easier than it is.
How To Make a Tattoo Feel Easier
You cannot remove every sensation from a tattoo, but you can make the experience easier by preparing properly.
Before your appointment, we recommend:
- getting enough sleep
- eating a proper meal
- drinking plenty of water
- avoiding alcohol
- bringing a sugary drink or snack
- wearing comfortable clothing
- letting your artist know if you feel nervous
The calmer and more prepared your body feels, the easier the appointment usually feels.
Is Tattoo Pain Worth It?
For most people, yes.
Tattoo pain is temporary, but the artwork stays with you.
Many clients arrive feeling nervous and leave saying the experience was nowhere near as bad as they expected. Some even find the process relaxing once they settle into it.
The most important thing is choosing an artist and studio you trust.
When you feel comfortable, informed and looked after, getting tattooed becomes a much more positive experience.
Thinking About Your First Tattoo?
If you are worried about tattoo pain, or are wondering “do tattoos hurt?”, you are not alone.
It is completely normal to feel nervous before getting tattooed, especially if it is your first time.
At Tabula Rasa Tattoo Studio in Chesterfield, we are always happy to talk through placement, pain expectations, preparation and aftercare before your appointment.
Ready for Your First Tattoo?
Getting your first tattoo can feel exciting, overwhelming and a little scary all at the same time.
That’s completely normal.
At Tabula Rasa Tattoo Studio in Chesterfield, we’re here to guide you through every stage of the process, from your first enquiry through to a fully healed tattoo you’ll be proud of for years to come.
If you’re considering your first tattoo, we’d love to hear from you.