Essex Tattoo Artists Discuss: Does Getting a Tattoo Hurt?
One of the most common questions our Essex tattoo artists get asked is ‘does getting a tattoo hurt?’ The answer here is that we are all different – what is very painful for one person, may not even bother the next. However, there are some key things to consider that can help to prevent discomfort before getting inked.
The Threshold
You’ve probably heard of a pain threshold? This is simply a way to pinpoint a person’s pain tolerance. It’s the minimum intensity at which a person begins to sense a stimulus being painful.
Naturally, each person’s pain threshold is unique because we’re all made differently. Therefore Just because a friend had a tattoo done and said it really hurt, it doesn’t mean yours will. Likewise, if someone has had hundreds of tattoos and says ‘you can’t feel it’ – don’t expect to feel absolutely nothing. Their pain tolerance is likely accustomed to the experience.
What Does It Feel Like?
It’s no secret that getting a tattoo doesn’t come without a little discomfort. Speaking candidly, a little needle is repeatedly puncturing the upper layers of your skin at high speed… However, if done by a professional, it certainly won’t be as uncomfortable as that sounds.
Our Essex tattoo artists have tattooed a vast array of clientele and have heard it all! Some say it feels like a scratch, others say they can hardly feel the work being done. Moreover, we’ve seen laughter at the vibrations and some describe getting a tattoo as a constant pricking sensation. Getting a tattoo feels different for every individual and it also depends on where the tattoo is being done on the body.
What Are the Most Sensitive Areas to Get A Tattoo?
It’s true, there are some areas that can be more sensitive than others. The most painful areas tend to be on parts of the body that have many nerve endings, that are close to bone, or where your skin is slightly thinner. Therefore, some of the more potentially painful places to get inked include:
Rib cage
Armpits
Ankles
Shins
Nipples and breasts
Groin
Elbows
Kneecaps and behind the knees
Hips
Neck and spine
Ears
Buttocks
Places that tend to cause the least amount of pain are those that have a little more fat around the area, have fewer nerve endings and aren’t too close to bones. Some of these areas include:
Upper outer thigh
Forearm
Outer shoulder
Outer Bicep
Calves
Lower back
Can I Take Something to Ease the Pain?
When Googling ’does getting a tattoo hurt‘, you’ll be met with mixed reviews as to whether you can take pain relief to ease any pain. If you’re worried about your pain threshold, our Essex tattoo artists would advise taking the recommended dose of oral paracetamol or ibuprofen tablet before the procedure. Do not apply any pain relieving creams or gel to the area you’re having tattooed before you come in. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication.
Your Tattoo Artist
Your tattoo artist plays a big part in a comfortable experience. We highly recommended choosing an experienced tattoo artist, who is able to not only bring your vision to life but is personable and puts you at ease. Getting a tattoo is a very personal procedure and you want to feel completely comfortable and assured throughout the entire process. Whilst being tattooed, be sure to tell you artist when you need to take breaks to help with potential pain management. Furthermore, you must follow the recommended aftercare guidelines to reduce discomfort during healing.
Alongside looking for experience and good customer etiquette, feel free to request to see an artists’ certification, studio and equipment before you make any decisions. Keep in mind that a professional should have no problem with showing you willingly.
At Inception Ink, our Essex tattoo artists have created a tattoo lounge that is a tranquil and calm environment, setting you at ease from the moment you step through the door. With over 17 years’ combined experience, we’re passionate about giving our clients tattoos they’re proud to wear!
Get in Touch
If you’re thinking of getting a bespoke tattoo, the team at Inception Ink would love to hear from you! Got a question for us? You can contact us below, or check out our Instagram, @inception.ink to see more of our previous work.