Tattooing in Sensitive Areas: What You Should Know Beforehand

When it comes to tattoos, everyone has unique sensitivities. Yet, experience has shown us that some parts of the body are generally more sensitive than others. Being informed about these factors can significantly impact your tattooing experience, design choices, and final outcome. Here’s everything you need to know about tattooing in sensitive areas.

Factors That Contribute To Sensitivity

Whenever a needle is inserted into the skin, you are likely to experience discomfort. However, the degree of sensitivity can vary across different parts of the body due to three main factors:

Skin Thickness

Areas of the body with thinner skin are generally the most sensitive tattoo spots. That’s because there is less tissue to cushion the impact of the needle, allowing it to directly stimulate nerves, blood vessels, and bone. Also, areas with thinner skin may require that the tattoo artist make multiple passes to ensure proper ink absorption.

Nerve Endings

Some areas of the body have more nerve endings. Fingers, inner thighs, and the face are some of the most sensitive areas for tattoos because they have more sensory receptors.

Bone Proximity

Areas where bone lies close to the skin's surface tend to be more sensitive tattoo spots. This heightened sensitivity is primarily due to the lack of cushioning tissue between the skin and bone. Additionally, the periosteum—the membrane covering bones—is highly sensitive to pain.

Most Sensitive Areas For Tattoos

Now that we’ve identified why certain areas of the body are more sensitive than others, let's take a closer look at which body parts score high on the tattoo sensitivity chart.

• Inner thighs: Due to a combination of thin skin and a location close to lymph nodes, the inner thighs are some of the most sensitive areas for tattoos.
• Feet: Feet can be extremely sensitive to tattoos due to a high concentration of nerve endings and thin skin that is close to bone.
• Hands: Like feet, hands have a high concentration of nerve endings, tendons, and close proximity to bone, making them highly sensitive.
• Face: The face is full of nerves. This part of the body also has less fat or muscle than others, which means the needle vibrates directly to the skull.
• Ribs: The rib cage is a bony area with thin skin and little muscle or fat, which means the needle is in near direct contact with the bone.
• Spine: The spine is very sensitive because vertebrae are so close to the skin’s surface. Plus, the spine has little protection and a high nerve concentration, making it one of the most sensitive areas for tattoos. 
• Neck: Thin skin and a high concentration of nerve endings make the neck another sensitive tattoo spot.

Pain Management & Preparation

While getting a tattoo in a sensitive area can be challenging, remember that everyone’s pain threshold is unique. What hurts one person may only cause mild discomfort for others. It’s also worth noting that you can manage sensitivity by being proactive before, during, and after your tattoo appointment.

• Hydration: Stay hydrated in the days leading up to your appointment. Hydrated skin not only heals faster but is more elastic, making it easier to tattoo.
• Proper rest: Rested bodies are more relaxed and show increased pain tolerance. We generally recommend clients get at least eight hours of sleep the night before their tattoo appointment.
• Eating beforehand: A nutritious meal before your appointment stabilizes blood sugar levels and may reduce dizziness or nausea. Eat enough so that you are satisfied but not so much that you are uncomfortable during your session.
• Numbing creams: While numbing creams may be appropriate in some cases, always consult with your tattoo artist before using one. Some creams can affect ink absorption.
• Breathing techniques: During your session, practice deep, controlled breathing. This can help you manage your pain and stay calm throughout the session.

Healing & Aftercare For Tattoos In Sensitive Places

Tattoos in sensitive places may require extra care during the healing process. Why? These regions are more prone to irritation and prolonged healing times. Consult with your artist and get familiar with our aftercare instructions!

We Have Skilled Hands & A Gentle Approach

Have questions about getting tattoos in sensitive places? You’re in the right place. At Bay Ink, you can expect a safe and memorable tattoo experience. Our artists are skilled in working on sensitive areas of the body and will ensure your safety and comfort during the session. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.