As with beauty treatments, the pain factor is one of the top concerns when getting a tattoo.
Aesthetics and design matter, sure, but “will it hurt?” will always be the question asked above all. That’s not even considering where you get this permanent ink, because news flash: placement has a real effect on how much discomfort (to put it lightly) you may be in from the moment the needle touches your skin.
Of course, we all have different levels of pain tolerance – which is something to keep in mind. But in an effort to ease your worries, so you know what to expect, we’ve collated the most painful places you can get a tattoo.
Ribcage
As well as being an obviously bony area, the ribs are constantly in motion because of breathing, making it a difficult area to get tattooed. So, settle in for a slightly bothersome tattoo sesh if you plan on getting your ribcage inked.
Head
While the head isn’t exactly the first place you think of getting a tattoo, it’s not surprising to hear this area can cause agony. Those who have had ink done on or around the head before have reported it can feel like the tattoo artist is drilling your skull – which isn’t exactly pleasant, now is it?
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Keep reading: 40 dainty tattoo ideas that’ll make you think about getting ink
Ankles and wrists
A tattoo near the feet or ankle can be one of the most pain-inducing because the skin is so close to the bone, with minimal fat in this area to protect from the needle. It’s the same with the inside of the wrist, with little fat to cushion and nerve endings in this area.
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Spine
Considering the spine is made up of 33 bones and houses the nervous system, any tattoo you get in the centre of the back is bound to hurt, from the base of the neck to the buttocks.
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Hands and fingers
As cute and dainty as those little finger tattoos can look, the bad news is they can be a real killer. Why? The skin on your hands and fingers is a lot thinner than some areas and therefore more sensitive. Not only will you have to contest with a more rapidly-fading tattoo in this area, the hands are bony and filled with ligaments, making it all the more painful.
Inner thigh
While you may not think the inner thigh would be as painful, being a fleshy area, it turns out it can be one of the most discomforting locations because it’s not often exposed and therefore more sensitive.
