Picking the Perfect Spot for Your Ink: A guide for Tattoo Placement
Getting a tattoo is an exciting way to express yourself, but where you choose to put it can make all the difference. Whether you're getting your first tattoo or adding to your collection, tattoo placement plays a big role in how your design will look, feel, and even how it ages. From pain levels to visibility, this guide will help you figure out the best spot for your next tattoo
Think About the Size and Design of Your Tattoo
Think About the Size and Design of Your Tattoo
Before you settle on where to put your tattoo, it's important to consider the size and design. Some designs need more space, while others look better in smaller, more discreet spots.
Big designs: If you're going for something large like a sleeve, back piece, or chest tattoo, you’ll need a bigger area, like your back, chest, or arms.
Medium designs: The forearm, thigh, or rib cage work great for medium-sized tattoos.
Small designs: For something more subtle, like a small symbol or word, spots like the wrist, ankle, or behind the ear are perfect.
Tattoo Placement and Pain Levels
Let’s be real—tattoos can hurt. But not all placements are equally painful. Depending on where you get your tattoo, the pain can range from barely-there to seriously intense. Areas with more fat or muscle tend to hurt less, while bonier areas can be more painful.
Here’s a quick rundown of pain levels by placement:
Less painful spots: Upper arms, thighs, calves, and the upper back are all areas where you'll likely feel less pain because they have more flesh.
Moderate pain: Forearms, shoulders, and outer arms are areas that may sting a bit but are generally manageable.
Most painful spots: Ribs, feet, hands, neck, and spine are pretty sensitive due to their proximity to bones and nerve endings.
If you’re worried about the pain, starting with an area like your upper arm or thigh is a good idea before braving something more intense like your ribs.
Tattoo Placement and How Long It Lasts
Not all tattoos age the same. Some placements are more prone to fading or stretching over time, depending on how much they’re exposed to friction, sunlight, or even changes in your body shape.
High-friction areas: Tattoos on your hands, feet, or inner thighs might fade faster because of the constant rubbing against clothes or shoes.
Sun-exposed spots: If you get a tattoo on areas like your forearms, neck, or shoulders, be prepared for some fading over time from UV exposure. Sunscreen is your friend here!
Stretch-prone areas: Spots like the stomach or thighs can stretch due to weight fluctuations, which can distort your tattoo over time.
For long-lasting tattoos, places like the upper back, outer arms, or thighs tend to hold up better since they don’t experience as much wear and tear.
Visibility and Work Considerations
While tattoos are becoming more accepted in many industries, some workplaces still have rules about visible ink. If you’re concerned about this, consider getting a tattoo in a spot that’s easy to cover up when needed.
Easily covered spots: Upper arms, back, thighs, and ribs are all easy to hide under clothing.
Visible spots: Hands, neck, and face tattoos (often called job-stoppers) are more noticeable and may require some extra thought if you work in a more formal setting.
Aesthetic and Symmetry
Tattoos should enhance your body’s natural shape, so think about how your design will flow with your curves or muscles. Symmetry is also something to consider if you’re planning to get multiple tattoos.
Balance: If you have a large tattoo on one arm, you might want to balance it out with something on the opposite side of your body.
Symmetry: Some people like the look of matching tattoos on both arms or legs for a more even, harmonious vibe.
Unique Tattoo Placements
If you're looking for a spot that's a bit more out-of-the-box, there are plenty of unique tattoo placements to consider.
Behind the ear: A subtle and small spot that’s easy to hide.
Inner lip: Hidden unless you show it off.
Along the spine: Perfect for long, vertical designs.
Side of the finger: Great for small, simple designs.
Aftercare Based on Placement
Taking care of your tattoo is key to ensuring it heals properly, and some areas are trickier to manage than others during the healing process.
Hands and feet: These areas are exposed to more dirt and friction, which means they require extra care to avoid infection and fading.
Back and shoulders: Harder to reach, so you might need help applying ointment or lotion during the healing process.
Joints: Tattoos over places like elbows, knees, or wrists can crack during healing due to movement, so be prepared for possibly slower healing.
Conclusion
When it comes to tattoo placement, there’s a lot to think about—from how much pain you're willing to endure, to how your tattoo will look and age over time. But once you have settled on the right tattoo placement, it’s a piece that’s sure to compliment your body for the rest of your life!
Considering your tattoo placement, and how it will affect your tattoo? Our artists here at Golden Hours will be happy to help you turn your ideas into a reality. Contact us through our social media platforms or contact page, and we can arrange a consultation for you to discuss your tattoo ideas.
