The best places to get a tattoo if you're afraid of pain.
A tattoo is a great way to express yourself, but if the thought of pain makes you put off making a decision - don't worry! Choosing the right spot on your body can make tattooing much more comfortable.
There's no denying that everyone has a different pain threshold. For one person, a tattoo on the ribs is a moment of relaxation, while for another it is a real test of endurance. However, there are areas where the pain is least noticeable. If you are just starting out with tattoos or simply want to avoid a lot of discomfort, check out the ranking of the least painful tattoo areas!
TOP 5 least painful places to get a tattoo
1. The forearm - ideal for beginners
Tattoos on the forearm are extremely popular - and no wonder!
It is one of the least painful areas because:
The skin here is quite thick
✅ There are a lot of muscles here
✅ There are fewer nerve endings
✅ As a result, tattooing the forearm involves minimal discomfort, and the result? A maximally stylish tattoo that you can easily display or cover up.
2. Thigh (outer part) - comfort and large space
If you're looking for a larger area for a tattoo but are afraid of pain, the outside of the thigh is a great choice.
👉 The skin here is flexible
👉 The fatty tissue acts as a natural cushion
👉 The more muscle, the less pain
The inside of the thigh is much more sensitive, but the outside - that's a different story!
3. The calf - a classic that doesn't hurt
A tattoo on the calf? An excellent option! Unlike the tibia (where the pain can be intense), the calf has more muscle and fatty tissue, which makes the needle less noticeable. If you want a minimally painful spot and want the tattoo to look good, this spot will be a hit!
4. Top of the arm - a peaceful place to get a tattoo
Tattoos on the upper arm are an absolute classic. If you choose the upper arm, the pain will be minimal because:
🖤 The skin is thicker here
🖤 The muscles dampen the sensation of the needle
🖤 This is an area that tolerates healing well
No wonder so many people choose to get tattoos in this very area!
5. Back (upper part, without spine) - large space, little pain
Tattoos on the upper back are relatively painless, provided the spinal area is avoided. Why?
✅ Fewer nerve endings
✅ A lot of muscle
✅ Lots of space for a striking design
If you dream of a bigger tattoo but don't want to suffer - this is one of the best places to go.
And where does it hurt the most?
Some places are real hardcore - better to avoid them if you don't have a high pain tolerance:
❌ Ribs - thin skin + lots of nerve endings = hellish pain
❌ Feet and hands - sensitive skin, little fat and lots of nerves = unpleasant experience
❌ Neck and spine - very sensitive, especially around the vertebrae
❌ Knees and elbows - skin directly on bones = great discomfort
Summary: Where to get your first tattoo if you are afraid of pain?
The best places are the forearm, outer thigh, calf, upper arm and upper back. With thicker skin, muscles and fewer nerve endings, tattooing in these areas will be the least painful.
Remember that the sensation of pain is very individual - but if you want a gentle start, choose one of these areas!
