Tattoos and Pain Management

It’s no secret, tattoos kind of hurt! And that pain felt varies depending on many factors. Pain tolerance differs from person to person. What was excruciating for one may have been easy breezy for another! Where you are putting your tattoo will change the intensity of the pain or discomfort felt as some areas are just more sensitive to be tattooed on. Areas that have no fat or where the skin is stretched across bone tend to be more sensitive, like the ribs and spine vs. areas like the outer part of your upper arm, which most people seem to get through with minimal discomfort. 

So what can you do to get yourself through the more difficult sittings? We have a few suggestions for you! 

Jared Preslar tattooing his apprentice

First and foremost it is important to realize that you are in control of your body movements, tension, and of course mindset. People tend to forget what a big difference the whole “mind over matter” thing will make in situations like this. Although it may be uncomfortable, keeping yourself calm and as relaxed as possible is so important. Not only for YOUR tattoo experience, but for the tattoo artist who is trying to give you an awesome tattoo! 

The more you allow yourself to focus on the pain the more uncomfortable you are going to be and the slower the clock will tick as you are waiting for it to be done. And when you tense up or wiggle around it makes it extremely difficult for your tattoo artist to do their job. Keeping yourself in a good state of mind and mentally getting yourself through it will make a big difference in your experience, we promise! People with low pain tolerance even meditate in longer, difficult sittings to help themselves through it. 

Bring some support! Bringing a good friend to your tattoo appointment can ease your stress, helping keep you distracted so that you aren’t just focusing on what your artist is doing. But again, it is good to keep your artist in mind during your appointment. 2 people in the room (client and guest) is company, 3 is a crowd! Too many people can be very distracting to your artist while they are focusing on their work. 

Christina Walker

Make sure you are ready to go for your tattoo appointment. This means getting a good night of sleep so you are well-rested and less anxious. Don’t go on a binger the night before, you don’t want the alcohol to thin your blood or put more stress on your body. Eat a good meal, and if it’s a longer appointment bring some snacks! 

Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water, and cut out (or at least cut down) on the caffeine intake. You don’t want to feel all wired and hyped up if you are already nervous and don’t have a high pain tolerance. Oh, and shower! You and your artist will be up close and personal, so good hygiene on your part will make a happy tattoo artist.

 

Do you Have any tips and tricks that have worked for you? Share them in the comments below!