HOW TO MINIMIZE TATTOO PAIN
Tattoos will hurt no matter what – but here are some helpful tips you can do to try and minimize the pain:
Choose a reputable tattoo artist
The more experience the artist has, the more skill which should mean less time required to do the tattoo. Also, check out the cleanliness and hygiene of their shop.
Pick a less sensitive body part
See chart above. Avoid the higher pain zones if pain tolerance is a concern.
Stay hydrated
Drinking a lot of water before helps keep your skin hydrated. Dry skin = pain.
Break up the tattoo session into smaller sessions (if getting a larger piece)
If you’re getting a larger or more detailed piece, try breaking it up into smaller sessions to avoid sitting for too long.
Avoid alcohol
Anytime you drink, your blood thins, and you become dehydrated. Alcohol also can make you more sensitive to pain.
Avoid any pain relievers
It’s common to bleed during a tattoo session. Taking aspirin, ibuprofen or other pain relievers may thin your blood. Avoid taking any at least 24 hours prior to session.
Get a good night’s sleep before your tattoo
With a solid night’s rest, you’re more equipped to handle pain better.
Never get a tattoo while you are sick
Nothing feels good when you’re sick. But a weakened immune system can make everything hurt more and compromise both your skin and healing process.
Eat well
Skipping a meal before a tattoo session is never good because you run the risk of low blood sugar which can result in getting dizzy or increasing your sensitivity to pain. Bring snacks with you if your session is a longer one to avoid dips in blood sugar.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
You’ll be sitting or lying down a while, so the more comfortable you are, the more relaxed your body will be.
Take Deep Breaths
Breathing exercises help your mind and body relax and can also help you push through any pain or discomfort.
Distract yourself
Bring a friend, listen to music, engage in conversation, watch TV. Whatever it takes, finding something to distract yourself or focus on besides the tattoo will help.
Try Numbing Cream
A good tattoo numbing cream can help take the edge off. This may not work for some, but rubbing the area with a safe numbing cream before going in for ink can help keep some of the pain at bay.
Remember The Purpose
Sometimes reminding yourself why you are getting the tattoo and what it means to you can help distract your mind and push through.
Whether it’s your first tattoo, your tenth, or if it’s the last remaining bare skin on your body–getting tattoos are painful. With a little preparation and taking the necessary precautions, you can help minimize the pain.
Conclusion:
Tattoos can certainly be painful AF and some areas of the body hurt much more than others. Distraction and proper tattoo aftercare protocol is key when it comes to dealing with tattoo pain.
Most importantly, don't be a wuss, dude! J/K
Take it easy, dudes.
-Drew Plotkin (Chief Dude Officer)
