What’s The Best Way To Manage Pain During A Tattoo Session?

Okay, so you’re thinking about getting some ink, huh?

Awesome!

But let’s be real, you’re also probably thinking, "Ouch! How bad is this gonna hurt?"

I get it.

Everyone worries about the pain.

I’m Dakota Weik, and I’ve been around the tattoo block a few times.

So, let’s chat about what’s the best way to manage pain during a tattoo session.

It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer, but I’ve got some tips that’ll definitely help.

Prepping for the Pain: Before You Even Sit Down

Think of this like training for a marathon, but instead of running, you’re… sitting and getting poked.

Here’s how to get ready:

Sleep is your superpower. Get a solid 8 hours the night before. Trust me, being tired makes everything worse. I once went in on 5 hours of sleep and regretted every single needle prick.
Eat a good meal. Don’t go in on an empty stomach. Low blood sugar = more pain. Think complex carbs and protein.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment, and especially the day of. Hydrated skin takes ink better and can help reduce discomfort.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine. These can thin your blood and make you more sensitive. It’s tempting to calm your nerves with a drink, but it’s a bad idea.
Dress comfortably. You’ll be sitting (or lying) for a while. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.
Mental prep is key. Visualize the finished tattoo. Remind yourself why you’re doing this. Focus on the art, not the pain.

Okay, you’re in the chair.

The needle is buzzing.

Time to put those strategies to work!

Communicate with your artist. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you need a break. A good artist will understand.
Breathe. Seriously. Deep, slow breaths can help you relax and manage the pain. Inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth.
Distraction is your friend. Bring a book, listen to music, watch a movie (if the artist allows). Anything to take your mind off the needle. I always bring headphones and a killer playlist.
Talk to your artist. Chatting can help pass the time and distract you from the pain. Plus, you can learn a lot about tattooing!
Consider numbing creams (with caution). Some people swear by them, but talk to your artist first. Not all artists are comfortable working with numbing creams, and some can affect the ink.
Remember why you’re doing this. Focus on the amazing piece of art you’re going to have forever.

Some spots hurt more than others, no surprise there.

Areas with lots of nerve endings or thin skin tend to be more painful.

Think ribs, feet, hands, and inner arms.

If you’re worried about pain, consider starting with a less sensitive area, like your outer thigh or upper arm.

The pain doesn’t magically disappear the second the needle stops.

Proper aftercare is crucial for healing and minimizing discomfort.

Follow your artist’s instructions to the letter. They know best!
Keep the area clean and moisturized. This will help prevent infection and promote healing.
Avoid tight clothing or anything that rubs against the tattoo.
Stay hydrated and eat well. Your body needs nutrients to heal.
Get plenty of rest.

Does tattoo pain get worse over time? Generally, no. Some areas might feel more intense at certain points, but it doesn’t usually get progressively worse.
Do different colors hurt more? Not really. The pain is more about the needle and the technique than the color of the ink.
Can I take painkillers before a tattoo? Avoid blood thinners like aspirin or ibuprofen. Tylenol is generally okay, but always check with your doctor or your tattoo artist first.
Will the pain be worse if I’m on my period? Some people find they’re more sensitive to pain during their period. If you’re concerned, consider rescheduling your appointment.
What if I can’t handle the pain? Talk to your artist. They can take breaks, adjust their technique, or even recommend a different placement.

Ultimately, managing tattoo pain is about preparation, communication, and mindset.

It’s not going to be a walk in the park, but with the right strategies, you can definitely get through it.

Remember, that amazing piece of art will be worth it!

And honestly, what’s the best way to manage pain during a tattoo session boils down to knowing yourself and finding what works for you.