Tattoo Pain Chart: Body Parts and Respective Pain Levels
Source: TKTX Numbing Cream
If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo but are nervous about the pain, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions people ask before getting inked for the first time is, "How painful will it be — and where does it hurt the most?"
The truth is, the pain is part of the process, but how much you feel depends on where you get tattooed and your tolerance level.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a tattoo pain chart so that you’ll know what to expect the next time you get a tattoo.
Tattoo Pain Chart: From Least to Most Painful Areas
When it comes to tattoos, pain is a big part of the conversation. Some spots have thick skin, more fat, or fewer nerve endings, which makes them more bearable. Others? Not so much.
To help you prepare, we’ve ranked a complete tattoo pain chart, from least to most painful. We’ve also included a tattoo pain scale from 1 to 10 to help you understand what different tattoo locations might feel like.
1. Least Painful Areas (Pain Level: 2-4/10)
These are the best spots for beginners or people who want an easier experience.
Why It Hurts Less: These areas have more fat and muscle, fewer nerve endings, and are less bony. The needle doesn't go deep or reach sensitive tissue.
2. Moderate Pain Areas (Pain Level: 5-7/10)
Manageable areas, but you’ll definitely notice some pain. These are common spots for larger or meaningful tattoos and generally fall in the mid-range of tattoo pain level.
Why It Hurts More: These areas have more nerve endings, thinner skin, or can be more sensitive depending on body type and tension.
3. Most Painful Areas (Pain Level: 8-10/10)
These are only for the brave. If you’re new to tattoos, consider starting with less painful areas before moving to these spots.
Why It Hurts So Much: These areas have little fat or muscle, sit directly over bone or major nerves, or have thin, stretchy skin — all of which make the needle feel more intense.
Note: Pain is also affected by your mental state, the artist’s technique, and how long the session lasts. Even low-pain areas can start to sting after a few hours.
Tattoo Pain Chart: Male vs. Female
A common question people ask is: "Do tattoos hurt more for men or women?" The answer isn’t straightforward, but comparing tattoo pain charts for both can be helpful.
Source: Pigmental Tattoos
1. Facts About Tattoo Pain Chart in Men
Men generally have thicker skin and more muscle mass, which can make some areas slightly less sensitive.
Men tend to have lower pain tolerance in some cases during long tattoo sessions.
Pain can feel sharper over bony areas like the ribs or spine, especially if there’s less body fat.
Source: Pigmental Tattoos
2. Facts About Tattoo Pain Chart in WomEN
Women generally have a lower pain threshold, especially during short or intense bursts of pain.
Areas with softer tissue, like the inner thighs or stomach, tend to be more sensitive for women due to higher nerve distribution.
During certain times of the menstrual cycle, women might feel more sensitive to pain.
How Tattoo Pain Works: What Causes It?
Source: Right Stuff
After learning about the tattoo pain chart, you should also understand how the pain actually works. Tattoos do look amazing, but what exactly causes that sting?
The short answer: needles, nerves, and your skin. Let’s break it down simply.
1. The Needle
Tattoo machines use small, sharp needles that puncture the skin rapidly, around 50 to 3,000 times per minute. These needles don’t just scratch the surface. They go deep enough to reach the dermis, the second layer of your skin, where the ink stays permanent.
The dermis contains nerves and blood vessels, so poking it repeatedly is naturally going to hurt a little.
2. Nerve Endings
Some parts of your body have more nerve endings than others. These areas are your ribs, hands, feet, or inner thighs, which are much more pain-sensitive.
The more nerve endings = the more signals your brain gets = the more pain you feel.
3. Skin Sensitivity
Not all skin is created equal. Areas with thinner skin, like your neck, ankles, or spine, tend to feel more painful because the needle is closer to bones and nerves.
On the other hand, thicker or fattier areas (like your outer thigh or upper arm) absorb more of the impact, which makes them easier to handle.
4. Session Time
The longer the tattoo session, the more sensitive your skin becomes. Even low-pain areas can start to hurt after a few hours of constant needlework.
So, if you’re getting inked for the first time, keep your session time shorter than usual.
Other Factors That Affect Tattoo Pain
Several factors could make the experience more or less painful, even if you’re getting tattooed in a low-pain area—something that isn’t always obvious from just looking at a tattoo pain chart.
Let’s look at the most common ones:
Source: Magnum XIII
1. Size and Detail of the Tattoo
Bigger tattoos take more time, which means your skin gets irritated for a longer period. Moreover, highly detailed tattoo styles often require slower, more precise needlework, sometimes with multiple passes over the same spot.
After that, if you decide to add some shading and coloring, it can feel more painful than simple line work because it often involves filling in large areas.
2. Experience of the Artist
A skilled tattoo artist knows how to control the machine and move the needle smoothly, which can reduce unnecessary pain.
But if you go with inexperienced or heavy-handed artists, they may press too hard or overwork the skin, leading to more pain and a longer healing time for the tattoo scab.
3. Your Mental and Physical State
You may feel pain more intensely if you’re anxious, tired, or hungry. Stress can cause your muscles to tense up and make the whole experience more uncomfortable. So, the best way to reduce pain is to stay calm and well-rested.
4. Skin Condition and Hydration
Dry, irritated, or sunburned skin is more sensitive and painful to tattoo. If your skin is well-moisturized and healthy, it will be easier for the needle to glide over and less likely to become inflamed.
Make sure to take care of your skin before your appointment—moisturize, stay out of the sun, and drink water!
Tips to Manage and Reduce Tattoo Pain
Here are some tried-and-tested tips to help reduce tattoo pain before, during, and after your session, no matter where you land on the tattoo pain chart.
Before Your Appointment
Get a good night’s sleep: Being well-rested helps your body handle pain better.
Eat a full meal: Eat something filling and nutritious before your session.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your appointment.
During the Tattoo Session
Practice deep breathing: Focus on your breathing—slow, deep inhales and exhales can help calm your nerves.
Take breaks when needed: Don’t hesitate to ask your artist for a short break if the pain becomes too much.
Bring distractions: Listen to music or podcasts, or chat with a friend to distract yourself from the sensation.
Use numbing cream (optional): Apply a numbing cream before the session on a sensitive area after asking your artist.
After the Tattoo
Follow tattoo aftercare instructions: Use recommended ointments, keep the area clean, and avoid scratching or picking at it.
Wear loose clothing: Stick to something soft and breathable so you don’t feel any irritation or pain from tight clothes rubbing against the fresh tattoo.
Ready to Ink with Confidence? Contact Aureo Roma Studio
Pain is one of people's biggest concerns when thinking about getting a tattoo, and that’s exactly why understanding a tattoo pain chart is so helpful. It gives you a clearer idea of what to expect and helps you mentally and physically prepare for the experience.
If you’re ready to get your first-ever tattoo, we’re here to help. At Aureo Roma Studio, we don’t just create tattoos, we tell your story through every line and shade.
Book your tattoo consultation today and let’s create a masterpiece together!
