Tattoo Placement Guide: Pain Levels & Healing Tips by Body Area

At Think Tank Tattoo in Denver, we understand that choosing the perfect tattoo involves more than just selecting the right design — the placement of your tattoo can significantly impact your experience. Some areas are more sensitive, others heal faster, and some require more aftercare.

To assist you in making an informed decision, we've included a tattoo pain chart that illustrates the varying pain levels associated with different body parts:

High Pain Areas

These regions typically have less fat, thinner skin, and more nerve endings, leading to increased sensitivity during tattooing:

• Ribs & Sternum: Sharp, deep pain; not ideal for first-timers but rewarding for large pieces.

  • Healing Tip: Sleep on your back and wear loose clothing to minimize irritation.

• Elbows & Knees: Bone-heavy areas prone to swelling; tattoos here may fade faster.

  • Healing Tip: Keep the area moisturized and avoid excessive bending in the initial days.

• Hands, Fingers, & Feet: Bony and thin-skinned with high movement.

  • Healing Tip: Diligent aftercare is essential; these tattoos may require touch-ups over time.

Moderate Pain Areas

These areas are more tolerable, especially with a skilled artist and a bit of adrenaline:

• Upper Arms & Thighs: More muscle and fat provide a smoother experience.

  • Healing Tip: Avoid tight clothing that might rub against the tattoo.

• Calves & Shoulders: Balanced surface area with tolerable sensitivity.

  • Healing Tip: Stay hydrated and perform gentle stretches to prevent tightness during healing.

Low Pain Areas (Great for First-Timers)

If you're new to tattoos or prefer a more comfortable experience, consider these spots:

• Forearms & Outer Upper Arms: Solid, consistent skin with good muscle underneath.

  • Healing Tip: Easy to clean and protect from sun exposure, promoting faster healing.

• Outer Thighs & Lower Back: Plenty of cushion and space for larger designs.

  • Healing Tip: Take a short break from the gym to avoid irritation from sweat or friction.

Universal Healing Tips

Regardless of placement, proper aftercare ensures your tattoo heals beautifully:

• Clean Gently: Use mild soap and lukewarm water to wash the area.

• Moisturize: Apply fragrance-free ointments or balms as recommended by your artist.

• Sun Protection: Denver's high-altitude sun can fade tattoos quickly; keep the area covered or apply sunscreen once healed.

• Follow Professional Advice: Adhere to the personalized healing plan provided by your tattoo artist.

Need Personalized Advice?

Every individual is unique, and so is every tattoo. If you're uncertain about the best placement for your design, feel free to visit our studio or contact us. Our experienced artists at Think Tank Tattoo are here to guide you based on your design preferences, pain tolerance, and lifestyle.

Stop by Think Tank Tattoo in Denver or shoot us a message anytime.