12/10/2026
Do tattoos hurt? The short answer is yes — but how much they hurt varies massively from person to person.
For some people it feels more like constant scratching or stinging, while for others certain areas can feel much more intense. Placement, tattoo size, style, session length and how well you’ve prepared can all make a difference.
Some areas are generally easier to sit through than others.
★ Outer upper arm, thigh, forearm, shoulder and calf are usually considered more manageable
★ Ribs, feet, neck, inner upper arm and stomach can be considerably more uncomfortable
★ Larger tattoos and longer sessions can become harder as the skin gets more sensitive throughout the day
★ Different tattoo styles can also feel different depending on how much time is spent working over the same area
If you’re nervous about getting your first tattoo, starting with something relatively small can be a good way to find out how your body reacts before committing to a long session.
There are also a few simple things you can do before your appointment to make the experience easier:
★ Get a proper night’s sleep
★ Eat a good meal before coming to the studio
★ Stay hydrated and bring a drink or something sugary with you
★ Avoid excessive alcohol before your appointment
★ Bring headphones, music or something to watch if it helps distract you
★ Let your artist know if you need a short break
There’s no prize for sitting completely still for hours while struggling. If you need five minutes, just tell your artist.
Pain is temporary, and for most people the anticipation beforehand is often worse than the actual tattoo.
If you’re unsure about a particular placement or you’re worried about sitting through a larger piece, speak to your artist beforehand. They can give you a realistic idea of what to expect and whether breaking the tattoo into shorter sessions would make more sense.
You can read the full “Do Tattoos Hurt?” guide on our website.
Hammersmith Tattoo London
3 North End Road, W14 8ST
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