Tattoos have become increasingly popular, with people choosing them for various reasons, from honoring loved ones to making a style statement. However, both medical professionals and tattoo artists caution against certain body areas for tattooing. In this article, we wrenklin explore 7 body parts that are best avoided when considering a tattoo. Plus, stay tuned for a bonus: a tattoo pain chart to help you gauge the discomfort level.
1. Elbows
Tattooing your elbows is not recommended due to several reasons. The skin in this area is thick and difficult to ink effectively. Tattoo artists often need to spend extra time and effort here, making the process less comfortable. Additionally, tattoos on elbows can fade quickly, especially if the skin isn’t adequately moisturized.
2. Armpits
The armpit is notorious for being one of the most painful areas to get a tattoo. The intense pain experienced during the process can be unbearable for many individuals. If you have a low pain threshold, it’s best to avoid tattooing this sensitive area.
3. Behind the Knees
The area behind your knees is rich in nerve endings, making it highly sensitive. Getting a tattoo here can be uncomfortable and painful, with each needlework sensation causing discomfort. Consider this before deciding on this location.
4. Hands and Fingers
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While tattoos on the hands and fingers are trendy, they come with some downsides. These areas are exposed to sunlight regularly, which can cause tattoos to fade faster. Tattoos on the sides of the fingers, in particular, tend to lose their vibrancy as they heal.
5. Rib Cage
Although rib cage tattoos can look stunning, they often come with excruciating pain during the inking process. This area ranks second in terms of pain intensity after the armpits. Additionally, women may experience longer healing times if they wear bras frequently, causing irritation to the tattooed skin.
6. Face
Tattooing the face is discouraged for several reasons. Facial skin is highly sensitive and packed with nerve endings, making the process considerably uncomfortable. Moreover, face tattoos tend to have a shorter lifespan, lasting only 2-3 years. If you choose this location, be diligent about daily sunscreen use to protect your tattoo.
7. Ankles and Shins
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The ankle and shin areas are susceptible to friction from shoes and socks. This constant rubbing can cause tattoos to lose their vibrant colors quickly. Additionally, the pain level of tattooing on the ankles and shins is comparable to that of rib cage tattoos.
Bonus: Tattoo Pain Chart
Take a look at the tattoo pain chart above to understand which areas are the most and least painful for tattoos. Red zones indicate the most painful areas, orange and yellow zones are less sensitive, while blue zones are the least painful.
Do you have tattoos? Share your experiences and photos with us. Have you ever regretted a tattoo or considered getting another one? Let us know!