Even the thought of getting your first tattoo is exciting. But you should always be informed about the pain level of your first ink. Every tattoo hurts but there are spots where it hurts the most and least. Know the best spots for your first tattoo.
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Things To Consider Before Your First Tattoo
- Go for a small design if you are not sure
- Pick a design which works for long term
- Always go for a reputed and experienced tattoo artist.
- Avoid alcohol and stay hydrated before your appointment.
- Read the reviews of the tattoo studio.
- Check the artist’s portfolio.
- Research properly before committing for a design.
- Pick the location that suits your job and lifestyle.
- Tattoo regret is common, so avoid trendy designs.
- Proper aftercare is crucial for best results.
- Healing takes a few weeks.
- Wear comfortable clothes for your appointment.
Best Spots For Your First Tattoo
Upper Back: Your upper back is the best spot for your first tattoo because it has thick skin which makes it a less painful spot. Upper back is also ideal for big designs and you don’t have to worry about weight gain because the tattoo stays constant.
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Forearm: The forearm is also less painful than other body parts. The tattoo on the forearm heals better and is suitable for many tattoo designs. Forearm offers flat surface that suits variety of designs. You can hide the tattoo easily with a full sleeve shirt or t-shirt and flaunt it will a half sleeve clothing.
Upper Arm: The upper has a good muscle cushion that makes it a less painful area for your first ink. The upper arm also offers a good spot for big and complex tattoos. The tattoo can be hidden and displayed at will. The healing of the tattoo is also smooth on the upper arm when compared to other body parts.
Calf: The calf is considered less painful for the first tattoo. It also provides a good canvas for medium and large tattoos. The calf has thicker skin with less nerve endings which is good for your first ink. The other advantage of a calf tattoo is that it can be hidden or displayed at will. The healing process is quite snooh on the calf.
Chest: The chest is also a less painful area when compared to other body parts. The part of the chest with more muscles is ideal for the first tattoo. The chest is preferred more by men than women. The chest is the best spot for meaningful designs because it is close to the heart.
Ankle: Ankle tattoo can be a bit more painful than forearm or a calf tattoo but it is best suited to individuals who are looking for small or minimalistic ink. A tiny flower, butterfly, initial or a star are common in ankle tattoos. The other advantage of ankle tattoo is that they can be easily displayed and hidden. Ankle tattoos are liked more by women than men.
Outer Thigh: Outer thigh is the best spot for you first tattoo because it is less painful when compared to ribs, fingers and ankles. The spot is suitable for simple, complex and big designs. The outer thigh tattoo can be easily hidden if you want to hide it for professional reasons.
Image source- Image source- dannyromano
Spots To Avoid For Your First Tattoo
The spots which are close to nerve endings and less muscle should be avoided. Even areas that are very close to bones and part with thin skin should not be inked if it is your first tattoo.
The places to avoid are
- Fingers
- Hands
- Neck
- Spine
- Ribs
- Feet
- Knee
- Inner Elbow
- Armpits
FAQ’s
Are small tattoos less painful than larger ones?
Small tattoos are less painful than larger ones because they take lesser time to get inked. The small or minimalistic tattoos also heal quickly and cause less discomfort when compared to large designs.
Which is the best spot for a first tattoo?
The outer upper arm is best spot for the first tattoo because the skin is thick and it generally has good muscle support. It is the least painful spot to have your first ink.
Which tattoo can be hidden easily if required?
Upper arm, thigh and back are best part of the body if you want to hide your ink.
Can I get a collarbone tattoo as my first ink?
Collarbone tattoo should be avoided if it is your first tattoo. The skin is skin and it is very close to the bone which can make your first tattoo painful. Collarbone tattoos are stylish but they should be avoided for the first ink.
Tattoo on which part of the body heals faster?
Tattoo on thigh and upper arm heal fastest because of least friction and movement.
Which tattoos fade fastest?
Tattoos on ankles, feet, fingers and hands fade faster due to more frictions, movement and washing.
What things should be avoided after your first ink?
- Avoid touching the ink with dirty hands that may lead to infections. Wash your hands properly before touching the new ink.
- Avoid direct sunlight because it may lead to slow healing, fading and skin irritation. UV rays are not good for the new ink.
- Avoid swimming for at least 2-3 weeks. Even hot water baths and beaches should be avoided because it increases the risk of infection and effects healing.
- Avoid tight clothing during the healing process because clothes keep rubbing the new ink which may lead to irritation and harm the new ink.
- Avoid heavy exercising because it leads to sweating which is not good for the tattoo. Avoid exercising for at least two weeks after getting the tattoo.
- Avoid shaving in the tattooed area for until your first ink is fully healed.
- Avoid picking and scratching of your new ink because it may lead to scarring.
- Avoid alcohol because it slows down the healing process and also causes tattoo leaking. Even avoid harsh and scented products which lead to irritation.
Always be well informed before going for your first tattoo. Research properly about the artist, tattoo shop and be sure about the design that you will have on your body. The best spot for your first tattoo depends on your choice and preferences. Follow the tips provided above to make your first ink memorable.
