Tattoo Pain Chart: How Much Does Each Body Part Hurt?

Pain Varies More Than You Think

Every body part feels different under the needle. Areas with thin skin, bones close to the surface, or dense nerve endings hurt more. Fleshy areas with thicker skin and fat padding hurt less.

This isn't about toughness. Anatomy determines pain levels. Someone who sailed through a forearm piece might struggle with ribs. Here's what to expect by location.

Least Painful Areas (2-4/10)

These spots have thicker skin, more fat, and fewer nerve endings. Most people handle them well:

• Outer forearm (2-3/10): Thick skin, minimal nerves. The go-to starter placement.
• Calf (2-3/10): Fleshy with decent padding. Back of calf can be slightly more sensitive.
• Outer thigh (3/10): Large muscle mass absorbs needle impact well.
• Upper back/shoulders (3-4/10): Away from the spine, these areas are manageable.
• Bicep (3-4/10): Good muscle padding, though inner bicep is more sensitive.

Moderate Pain Areas (5-7/10)

These spots are uncomfortable but tolerable for most people:

• Inner arm (5-6/10): Thinner skin than outer arm, more nerve endings.
• Chest (5-7/10): Varies by location. Center chest and near collarbones hurt more.
• Stomach (5-6/10): Soft tissue can be sensitive. Pain increases near hip bones.
• Lower back (5-6/10): More comfortable than mid or upper spine areas.
• Neck (6-7/10): Thin skin and proximity to spine increase sensitivity.

High Pain Areas (8-10/10)

These spots are genuinely challenging. Expect breaks and slower sessions:

• Ribs (8-9/10): Thin skin directly over bone. Breathing makes it harder to sit still.
• Spine (8-9/10): Bone and nerve density create intense sensation.
• Elbow and knee (8-9/10): Bone directly beneath thin skin. Ditch areas hurt less.
• Feet and ankles (9-10/10): Dense nerve endings and minimal padding.
• Hands and fingers (9-10/10): Nerve-rich with bones close to surface.

Managing Pain During Your Session

A few practical tips that actually help:

• Eat a solid meal before your appointment
• Stay hydrated the day before and morning of
• Avoid alcohol (thins blood, increases sensitivity)
• Bring headphones, snacks, and a friend if it helps
• Communicate with your artist about breaks

Pain is temporary. Your tattoo is permanent. Most people find even the toughest spots manageable once they're in the chair.