Does It Hurt?

When it comes to getting a tattoo, there’s one question that seems to echo in the minds of first-timers and seasoned ink lovers alike: “Does it hurt?” The short answer? Yes, it does. But you already knew that. The burning question you’re probably wrestling with is, “How much does it hurt, and is it something I can handle?”

Let’s get straight to the point: the pain involved in tattooing isn’t quite the horror story you might have cooked up in your imagination. The discomfort stems from a bunch of needles, working together like a mini orchestra on your skin, vibrating and piercing rapidly. But here’s the twist – it’s not the same as the sharp jab of a vaccination needle. Instead, think of it as a consistent, buzzing vibration. You’ll be surprised at how your body rises to the occasion, pumping out endorphins, nature’s own painkillers, to ease the sting.

Now, the plot thickens when we consider the location of your tattoo. Ever heard the term ‘skin and bones’? Well, in the world of tattoos, areas with little more than skin covering your bones (think collarbones, ankles, and the like) can feel like you’re texting an ex—regrettable and more painful than other spots. Moreover, the type of needle plays its part too. In my personal theater of tattoo experiences, the needles used for outlining are the villain, delivering a sharper pain, whereas shading needles are more like the sidekick that barely bothers you, feeling more like an electrical buzz that’s almost painless.

Remember, getting a tattoo is a voluntary adventure. How steep this mountain of pain feels largely depends on your mental preparation and attitude.

A word to the wise: steer clear of alcohol and illegal substances in a bid to numb the pain before your tattoo session. Both aspirin and alcohol are notorious for thinning your blood, turning a simple tattoo session into a scene more suited for a medical drama—excessive bleeding included. Plus, aspirin can mess with blood clotting, putting a damper on the healing process. And let’s be real, no artist wants to deal with a client who’s under the influence—it’s not only more challenging but also illegal in many places, as one needs to be able to give consent, which is something a person under influence cannot do.