Getting a tattoo is an exciting yet personal experience, often involving some degree of pain. However, not all areas of the body are created equal when it comes to discomfort. Factors such as skin thickness, the number of nerve endings, and the proximity of bone can affect how much pain you feel. If you’re considering a tattoo, understanding which body parts are the least and most painful can help you prepare for the experience.
Here, we’ll rank body parts from least to most painful for tattoos, including areas that are commonly discussed but rarely openly mentioned, like the genitals.
Least Painful Areas to Get Tattooed
1. Upper Arm (Outer Bicep)
The outer bicep is one of the most painless spots for a tattoo. The skin is thicker here, and there are fewer nerve endings, so the discomfort is minimal compared to other areas. This is an ideal location for beginners or those who want a larger design with less pain.
2. Thigh (Outer Thigh)
The outer thigh is another area that experiences relatively little pain during tattooing. There’s plenty of muscle and fat in this region, which helps to dull the sensation of the needle. The large surface area also provides space for intricate designs with only moderate discomfort.
3. Calves
Like the outer thigh, the calves are a great option for tattoos with minimal pain. The area is well-padded with muscle, and while some parts may be slightly more sensitive, such as near the ankle, it is generally a comfortable spot for tattooing.
4. Forearm
The outer forearm is also known to be a relatively pain-free spot for tattoos. It has tough skin and fewer nerve endings compared to other areas, making it a popular choice for first-timers. The inner forearm, however, is slightly more sensitive but still manageable for most people.
Moderate Pain Areas
5. Shoulders
Tattooing the shoulder tends to fall into the moderate pain range. The discomfort varies depending on where on the shoulder the tattoo is placed. The outer shoulder is cushioned with muscle, reducing the pain, but closer to the collarbone or shoulder blade, it can get more painful as the skin thins and nerves increase.
6. Upper Back
The upper back is a large canvas with thicker skin, which helps reduce the overall pain level. However, areas closer to the spine or shoulder blades can become more sensitive due to the proximity of bone. Still, for most people, the pain is moderate and manageable.
7. Chest
Chest tattoos can be tricky in terms of pain. While the fleshy parts, such as around the pecs, tend to hurt less, areas closer to the sternum or ribs can be more painful. The thin skin and proximity to bone make the chest a moderately painful spot, though many find the results worth it.
8. Ribs
The ribs are often considered one of the more painful spots to get tattooed due to the thinness of the skin and the lack of muscle cushioning. The bones are close to the surface here, and the area is filled with nerve endings, making the process more intense.
Most Painful Areas to Get Tattooed
9. Feet and Ankles
Tattoos on the feet and ankles are known for being quite painful. The skin is thin, and there is little fat to cushion the bone underneath. As a result, the needle can feel more intense, especially on the tops of the feet and around the bony parts of the ankles.
10. Hands and Fingers
Tattoos on the hands and fingers are highly painful due to the high concentration of nerve endings and the thin skin in these areas. The lack of cushioning between skin and bone makes the sensation sharp and uncomfortable. In addition, hand tattoos tend to fade more quickly, which can mean enduring the pain for touch-ups.
11. Neck
The neck, especially the sides and back, is another area where tattoos can be quite painful. The thin skin, coupled with the many nerve endings present, can make the sensation intense. The neck is also an area of constant movement, which can add to the discomfort during the healing process.
12. Head and Face
Head and face tattoos rank high on the pain scale due to the lack of muscle and fat in these regions. The skin is thin, and the needle can be felt directly against the bone in some areas, particularly on the skull. The face has a high density of nerves, making even smaller tattoos in these areas quite painful.
13. Elbows and Knees
Tattoos on the elbows and knees are known to be extremely painful. Both areas have very thin skin, little to no fat, and a high concentration of nerves. The skin here also tends to be tougher, which can make the tattooing process more challenging and uncomfortable. Ditch tattoos (the inner elbows and knees) are even more sensitive due to the number of nerve endings and the thinness of the skin.
14. Armpits
The armpits are considered one of the most painful places to get a tattoo. The skin here is thin, and the area is packed with nerve endings. Tattoo artists often warn clients about the intensity of pain in this region, and it’s sometimes called the “pain threshold test.” Very few people choose to get tattooed in this area, but those who do often find it highly uncomfortable.
15. Genitals
The genitals are, without a doubt, one of the most painful tattoo areas. The skin is incredibly sensitive and filled with nerve endings, making the tattooing process excruciating for many people. Additionally, the psychological aspect of getting a tattoo in such a private area can add to the overall discomfort. The healing process can also be more challenging due to the constant friction and moisture in this region. Only those with a very high pain tolerance should consider genital tattoos, and it’s essential to work with an experienced artist who is familiar with tattooing sensitive areas.
Final Thoughts
While pain is subjective, certain body parts consistently rank higher or lower on the pain scale when it comes to tattoos. If you’re new to tattooing, starting with areas like the outer arm or thigh, which are less painful, is a good idea. However, if you’re prepared for more discomfort and are seeking a bolder design in sensitive areas like the ribs, feet, or even genitals, mental preparation and working with a skilled artist are key to managing the pain. Always choose a reputable tattoo artist who can guide you through the process and help you achieve the results you want, no matter the location.
