Tattoo swelling is a natural response to the tattooing process, and how you handle it can significantly impact the outcome of your tattoo. To reduce tattoo swelling, follow your tattoo artist’s guidelines and allow several hours for the tattoo to absorb blood, fluid, or extra ink.
To minimize tattoo swelling, follow these home remedies:
- Adhere to your tattoo artist’s guidelines and allow several hours for the tattoo to absorb blood, fluid, or extra ink that may seep out.
- Keep your tattoo clean to prevent infections using mild, unscented soap and warm water. Moisturize your tattoo with a fragrance-free lotion or ointment to help in healing and prevent scabbing.
- Protect your tattoo neatly and clean to prevent infection and swelling. Wash your tattoo mildly after dirty or sweaty activities and keep it safe from sun.
- Apply a cold compress to the swollen area for short intervals to reduce swelling.
When treating tattoo swelling, remember the acronym PRICE: P – Protect the region; R – Rest; I – Ice; C – Compression; E – Elevation.
- Drink lots of fluids and water in the days leading up to the tattoo session to keep the body hydrated and reduce the risk of swelling. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they have toxins and should be avoided during the days leading up to the tattoo session.
- Eat kiwi and pineapple fruits for nutrients that may help reduce swelling and bruising. Eat a hearty meal before your appointment to prevent swelling on lips.
- Avoid moving the machine faster than usual to reduce swelling, bruising, or itching. Never apply ice directly to the skin as it can cause tissue damage.
- Use soothing, pain-relieving gels and creams to provide additional comfort and reduce redness. Advil, Tylenol, and Benadryl may also be acceptable for pain during the tattoo session.
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| Swollen skin during session, my artist had to stop because … | During my most recent sitting the area where he was working became significantly swollen. We took a break (I took some allergy medicine), and waited for the … | reddit.com |
| preparation — Liquid Amber Tattoo | Eat Kiwi and Pineapple: These fruits contain nutrients that may help reduce swelling and bruising. Eat a Good Meal: A hearty meal before your appointment will … | liquidambertattoo.com |
📹 How To Reduce Tattoo Swelling? Ep-9 Ft. Suresh Machu
This video explains the facts behind why tattoo swell and how to reduce it ? Explained by Suresh Machu from Machu Tattoos.
What Drugs Not To Do Before A Tattoo?
Before getting a tattoo, it's crucial to avoid certain medications and foods that can increase the risk of bleeding complications. Key substances to steer clear of include steroids, anti-inflammatories, and pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and any products containing these ingredients (e. g., Motrin, Advil, Aleve). These non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), along with anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, and certain antidepressants, can significantly affect your tattooing experience and final outcome.
Interestingly, it's generally advisable to refrain from using painkillers, including ibuprofen and acetaminophen, before your tattoo session. These medications thin the blood and can lead to excessive bleeding during the procedure. For optimal results, avoid blood-thinning medications and alcohol at least 24 hours before your appointment.
It's important to discuss any prescription medications with your doctor well in advance (ideally 6-12 months prior) to ensure your safety. Antibiotics, which target bacterial infections, won't prevent bleeding or complications related to tattoos, so they shouldn't be relied upon in this context. Moreover, consuming alcohol can exacerbate bleeding risks, so arriving intoxicated can jeopardize the quality of your tattoo.
If you're on blood thinners or similar medications like aspirin and ibuprofen, avoid them for at least 24-48 hours before getting inked to enable your tattoo artist to work effectively and safely. Furthermore, stay away from any type of pain medication that could affect blood clotting.
To prepare for your tattoo, it’s also advisable to come healthy—do not attend if you're feeling unwell. Instead, hydrate, consider taking vitamin K from leafy vegetables, and bring sugary snacks or drinks for energy during the process. Lastly, avoid using any numbing agents on the tattoo area unless previously agreed with your artist to ensure the best results. Consulting a healthcare provider regarding prescription medications’ safety before your appointment is a must for a successful tattoo experience.
Does Ibuprofen Reduce Tattoo Swelling?
To reduce tattoo swelling, it's essential to take the necessary precautions since a tattoo is essentially an open wound. Using ice packs and keeping the tattoo clean are important steps that can alleviate swelling. Pain relievers such as Ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen can also be helpful for managing discomfort post-tattoo. However, it's crucial to note that taking Ibuprofen before your tattoo session is not advisable. As a blood-thinning medication, Ibuprofen can significantly prolong bleeding time, creating challenges for the tattoo artist and potentially compromising the quality of the tattoo.
In general, it's better to undergo your tattoo session without any painkillers to prevent excessive bleeding that can obscure the artist’s view of the tattoo stencil. After the tattoo is done, if you experience swelling or pain, using ice for 20 minutes and taking NSAIDs can effectively reduce these symptoms. Hydration is equally vital as drinking plenty of water aids healing and minimizes swelling.
For pain relief during the tattoo process, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a recommended choice since it helps alleviate pain without affecting inflammation. In contrast, medications like aspirin and Ibuprofen should be avoided before the tattooing as they can increase bleeding and impede the healing process. If the area shows swelling or redness the day after the tattoo, applying ice and taking NSAIDs can be beneficial for reducing discomfort.
While Ibuprofen can help relieve inflammation after the tattoo procedure, users should always adhere to the recommended dosage. If swelling persists beyond 48 hours, it's advisable to seek professional help. Applying a cold pack may also help manage swelling, bruising, or itching; however, ice should never be applied directly to the skin to prevent tissue damage.
Ultimately, while preemptively using painkillers might seem logical, they can lead to complications during the tattooing process. It’s essential to approach the healing phase with common sense and diligence, treating the newly inked area as you would with any surface wound. Utilize appropriate pain relief post-session and maintain cleanliness and hydration to ensure your tattoo heals well.
Does Benadryl Help With Tattoo Swelling?
For pain relief during your tattoo session, Advil and Tylenol are acceptable options. To minimize swelling, taking Benadryl about 30 minutes before starting the session is recommended. Additionally, it's advisable to take an antihistamine like Benadryl (50mg twice daily) and apply hydrocortisone cream (over the counter) three times daily to any areas of redness. Antihistamines are effective for addressing itching and inflammation, making them a go-to treatment for any unusual reactions.
If you've recently got a tattoo and are experiencing mild swelling, it's common, and proper aftercare can alleviate discomfort. Applying Aquaphor after a few hours may also aid healing. Benadryl is particularly useful for swelling linked to allergic reactions, as it blocks histamine activity, which contributes to swelling and discomfort, while its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the affected area.
For best results with antihistamines, take them with meals and stay within prescribed amounts. Reaction timelines vary—if swelling is due to an allergic response, it should generally lessen within 36 hours; other sources of swelling may take longer.
To minimize tattoo swelling, adhere strictly to your tattoo artist's care instructions. It’s normal for the tattoo to absorb fluid; patience is key. Keeping hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids may also support healing.
Avoid using strong soaps or detergents on the tattoo site to prevent irritation. Overall, antihistamines like Benadryl can assist in managing minor skin reactions post-tattoo, addressing issues like hives or faint rashes. Remember to monitor your symptoms and follow all product instructions carefully for optimal recovery.
How To Tattoo Without Swelling?
Hydration is crucial in the days leading up to a tattoo session; drinking plenty of fluids and water helps keep the body hydrated, reducing the risk of swelling. It's advisable to avoid alcohol and caffeine during this period, as they contain toxins that can negatively affect healing. Following your tattoo artist's guidelines is essential. After the tattoo, allow several hours for the area to absorb any blood, fluid, or excess ink that may emerge, which is a common occurrence.
One effective way to mitigate initial tattoo swelling is to apply ice. Utilizing a cold compress can significantly help; this may involve using an ice pack wrapped in cloth or submerging the tattoo lightly in cold water. Maintaining a structured healing plan is vital for managing swelling and promoting recovery. Clean your tattoo 2-3 times daily with a fragrance-free soap, using your fingers for application and patting dry instead of rubbing.
It's normal to experience bruising, swelling, or redness in the first few days, but it's essential to seek medical advice if these symptoms do not improve or worsen. To speed up recovery, applying a cold compress intermittently to the swollen area can be beneficial. Ibuprofen can help with inflammation, along with elevating the tattoo and applying ice as needed. Generally, one minute of icing followed by a minute without ice, for a maximum duration of 5-10 minutes, is recommended.
If a tattoo is older, regular application of body lotion can keep the skin moisturized, potentially preventing swelling due to humidity. New tattoos may exhibit some redness and swelling for a day or two, particularly if they are large or located in sensitive areas. Understanding that swelling is a common bodily response to tattooing is important, but effective management can help reduce discomfort and facilitate healing. Following expert advice on care techniques and remaining attentive to your body’s needs post-tattoo is essential for a smoother healing journey.
How To Reduce Swelling When Getting A Tattoo?
To effectively manage swelling after getting a tattoo, it's essential to use proper aftercare techniques. One effective method is applying a cold pack, which can help alleviate swelling, bruising, or itching. Always ensure a layer of fabric lies between the cold pack and your skin to prevent tissue damage from direct ice contact. This guide aims to provide comprehensive insights on tattoo aftercare, and reducing swelling is a critical focus for both newcomers and experienced individuals.
Swelling in areas like the feet, legs, and ankles post-tattoo is normal, occurring most prominently in the first couple of days. Applying ice and elevating the tattooed area can significantly aid in minimizing this swelling. It's advised to follow your tattoo artist's aftercare instructions, as the tattoo may expel blood, fluid, or excess ink initially, which is a common occurrence.
For immediate steps to reduce swelling after your tattoo procedure, consider the following remedies: use ice packs wrapped in cloth, elevate the tattooed area, and gently massage areas around the tattoo to facilitate lymphatic drainage. Maintaining cleanliness and moisture in the tattooed region, along with protecting it from excessive sunlight and water exposure, is crucial in promoting healing.
The presence of redness and tenderness is a natural response to the tattooing process; understanding that swelling will not affect the final result can alleviate some anxiety. For additional relief from pain or discomfort, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage both pain and swelling effectively.
In summary, through the application of cold compresses, elevation of the affected area, adherence to aftercare guidelines, and possibly the use of NSAIDs, one can significantly mitigate swelling and promote quicker recovery following a tattoo.
Is It Normal To Swell While Getting A Tattoo?
After getting a new tattoo, it is completely normal to experience some redness and swelling around the area for the first day or two, particularly if the tattoo is large or located in a sensitive area. This reaction occurs because the body perceives the tattoo as a foreign object, which results in inflammation as part of your immune response. Typically, swelling should resolve within 24 to 48 hours; however, in some instances, it can last longer, especially for tattoos near joints or movable areas, where it may last up to a week.
While swelling and tenderness can cause concern, these symptoms usually do not affect the final appearance of the tattoo. It's also common for people to notice clear plasma, ink, and minor blood seepage during the initial healing phase, which are all normal. It’s important to monitor the tattoo for any alarming signs, such as excessive bleeding, discolored secretions, a persistent unpleasant smell, or swelling that worsens beyond the initial post-tattoo days—these could indicate an infection requiring medical attention.
Many individuals report varying degrees of swelling following a tattoo, with some experiencing significant puffiness. For instance, it’s mentioned that personal experiences vary, and while one can expect some swelling, extreme cases might occur, requiring proper aftercare such as icing and elevating the tattooed area to alleviate symptoms.
The redness, bruising, and irritation commonly associated with newly tattooed skin result from the tattoo needle penetrating the skin layers. This trauma prompts the body’s immune system to dispatch white blood cells to aid in healing, contributing to swelling. Therefore, it is a natural part of the healing process.
In summary, while minor swelling and redness are typical and generally harmless for the first day or two following tattooing, any persistent or worsening symptoms should be closely monitored. Tattoos are open wounds, and thus proper care is essential during the healing period. If there are any concerns about infection or abnormal reactions to the ink or materials, seeking medical advice is strongly recommended, as some individuals may experience allergic reactions or complications that could persist over an extended period. Overall, maintaining awareness of the healing process can help ensure the best outcome for a new tattoo.
How Long Will A New Tattoo Stay Swollen?
After getting a new tattoo, it's normal for the area to appear red, irritated, swollen, warm to the touch, and possibly bruised. This reaction typically lasts between 1 to 3 days. If your tattoo is located on an extremity, particularly below the knee, you might experience increased swelling. This swelling doesn't affect the final appearance of your tattoo. Healing starts immediately after your tattoo session. Generally, swelling lasts for 24 to 48 hours, though it can be longer depending on the tattoo's size and location.
For instance, swelling on the arm may last slightly longer, while swelling in the feet, legs, and ankles is typical for the first couple of days. Elevation and ice can help mitigate swelling during this period.
Tattoo healing progresses through four stages over 2 to 4 weeks: swelling and oozing, itching, flaking or scabbing, and long-term healing beneath the skin. Most discomfort from swelling, pain, and oozing tends to resolve by around day three, leading into itching and peeling for the following week. This initial phase is critical, as your skin reacts to the needle and ink.
While some swelling is expected, excessive or prolonged swelling might indicate an infection or allergic reaction, which necessitates a consultation with a healthcare professional. The first 24-48 hours are crucial; leave the protective bandage on for 4-6 hours after your session, during which time you might experience some burning sensations.
In sum, a new tattoo commonly appears red, swollen, and sore for a few days following the procedure, especially if it is large or in a sensitive location. The outer layer of skin generally looks healed within 2 to 3 weeks, but complete healing may take up to 6 months. Swelling and irritation are part of this normal healing process, but any signs of prolonged discomfort should prompt a medical evaluation. Remember, visual changes—including the tattoo appearing darker—can occur as it heals.
Do You Put Vaseline On Before Tattooing?
Creating a hydrophobic barrier on the skin is an interesting concept, especially regarding tattoo care. There's a prevailing question about whether Vaseline can be used on a tattoo, and the simple answer is no. Although Vaseline was once commonly used for soothing skin, modern practices suggest it's not the ideal choice for new tattoos. After removing bandages, it's advised to avoid Vaseline during the healing process. However, during the tattooing process, Vaseline can serve as a lubricant, but using specialized products like Toochi Tattoo is recommended for better results.
Applying Vaseline immediately before a tattoo session is discouraged, as it can grease the skin, causing needle slippage. Despite its reputation as a skin healer, Vaseline's non-porous nature can trap moisture and bacteria, potentially leading to infections and scarring. While it acts as a waterproofing agent when layered over a tattoo temporarily, it isn’t suitable for long-term aftercare.
Some artists may use Vaseline during the tattoo procedure to reduce friction and prevent ink from drying on needles, which can ease pain and enhance healing. However, most tattoo artists advise against using it post-session due to its moisture-trapping properties, which can complicate the healing process.
In summary, while Vaseline may have some applications during tattooing, its use afterward is not advisable for optimal healing and skin health. A thin layer of more appropriate products is preferable to safeguard the integrity of a new tattoo and promote proper recovery.
Can I Take An Antihistamine Before A Tattoo?
When considering a tattoo, it's important to be aware of how medications might affect the process. It is strongly advised against taking preemptive medications like Benadryl or Tylenol before getting tattooed. Benadryl can cause drowsiness and does not prevent severe allergic reactions, while Tylenol will not numb the skin nor effectively help manage pain during the tattooing process.
Antihistamines, such as Benadryl, may be beneficial in alleviating minor allergic reactions that could occur, like redness or small bumps at the tattoo site. Some individuals report that antihistamines can also help with pain during tattooing, but it’s best to consult with your laser specialist before using any such medication. It's also uncertain how antihistamines might impact the skin's ability to absorb ink. Some recommend taking an antihistamine, like 50 mg of Benadryl twice daily, and applying hydrocortisone cream three times daily to manage redness.
It's critical to avoid medications that could thin the blood or cause skin sensitivity before a tattoo. Medications to avoid include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticoagulants, and other blood-thinning substances like ibuprofen, Advil, and aspirin, especially since they can lead to excessive bleeding during and after the tattoo.
Before your tattoo appointment, inform your artist about any medications you are taking. If pain management is necessary, Tylenol is acceptable; however, do not use other NSAIDs due to their blood-thinning effects. Additionally, avoid any medications that could provoke allergic reactions, such as certain acne treatments.
Instead of medications, preparation for the tattoo can include a good meal 30 to 60 minutes beforehand and drinking something sweet to maintain blood sugar levels. It is also recommended to apply a hypoallergenic cream to create a protective barrier on the skin prior to tattooing, followed by a fragrance-free moisturizer after the tattoo is completed for soothing and hydration.
Finally, refrain from consuming drugs or alcohol within 24 hours of the session as these too can exacerbate bleeding and pain during the process. Pain relief from benzodiazepines or opioids may not significantly affect the experience, and any discomfort can be alleviated post-tattoo care, such as using cold compresses or antihistamines to reduce itching. Always communicate with your tattoo artist regarding any medication concerns prior to your appointment.
How To Avoid Tattoo Blowout As An Artist?
If you’re a new tattoo artist, it's crucial to avoid areas on the body that are prone to blowouts, especially since thin skin makes it easier to damage lines. If you're concerned about blowouts while tattooing for the first time, consider suggesting a design placement on skin with more thickness to your client. The best preventive measure against a tattoo blowout is to select an experienced tattoo artist. When searching for an artist in your area, be sure to read reviews, look at their healed work, and zoom in on their tattoo images for quality assessment.
While a blowout can be a distressing occurrence, it's not the end of the world—touch-ups can significantly improve the appearance of the lines, either by thickening them up or adding color or shading to mask the blowout. Generally, blowouts happen when too much pressure is applied by the tattoo artist during the inking process.
To minimize blowouts, choose a reputable artist and consider tattoo placements carefully. Experienced artists are more adept at handling delicate layering, which can prevent blowouts from occurring in the first place. It's advisable for new artists to avoid thin-skinned areas when starting out. Proper hydration and remaining still during the tattooing process are also key factors in ensuring a successful outcome.
For a successful tattoo experience, the first step is selecting the right artist for your desired design, taking sufficient time during the process, and adhering to aftercare instructions diligently. Furthermore, it’s essential to strike the right balance when tattooing to reach the dermis layer without overworking the skin. Techniques such as selecting the correct needle and maintaining clean skin can further assist in preventing blowouts.
In conclusion, while preserving the integrity of a tattoo primarily hinges on the artist’s skill, placing emphasis on aftercare can also enhance healing and reduce the likelihood of complications like blowouts. If blowouts do occur, strategies such as appropriate tattoo placement, the expertise of a reputable artist, and thoughtful touch-ups can help address these issues effectively.
📹 How to MANAGE & MINIMIZE the PAIN WHEN GETTING TATTOOED
Getting a tattoo is going to hurt.. and it’s either going to hurt A LITTLE or A LOT. In today’s video i’ll be talking about and going over …
I had a 6 hour session yesterday with a pro artist. I can agree with having sleep, food in the stomach, and a distraction. The pain was strong at first, super minimal in the middle, but the pain definitely got stronger towards the end (especially since that’s when the shading happens). But man, you just gotta embrace the pain and welcome it. Tattoo are nothing with the experience of getting it. Have a conversation with your artist on relatable things. The tattoo is not just about the final result but about the process too. If you only want the final product, the pain will hurt mentally. If you embrace it and accept that tattoos are nothing without pain, then you’ll take the pain like a champ.
I have a half sleeve and I have used Ebanel NUMB520 with great success. It sufficiently numbs the area where applied and although did not prevent pain 100%, definitely took the edge off and made it bare able. Best results when you apply a very thick layer, wrap in plastic wrap and leave on 45-60min. Lasts 3-4hrs.
Pretty used to pain from my bout with Crohn’s disease and I learned from that the best way to deal with pain is to zone out, mind over matter. And it works fucking amazing with tattoos too! So the advice I’d give is keep yourself distracted (for me it’s just chatting with my artist) and try to tell yourself the pain is bearable! The second you tell yourself in your brain that it’s killing you is the second it starts to overwhelm you! Hope this can help people! 🙂 good article mate!
I find having a focal point to focus on helps with the pain. One time that was a tv with a movie playing, another was simply buttons on an air conditioner. Which wasn’t ideal but it was all that was there. Also, breathing like he says, totally helps. Get in a nice chill rhythm and focus on your breath and past the pain.
I always HATE taking breaks 😩 I feel like as soon as we start back, it hurts more than when we first started, so I only take a break if my artist needs one. But agreed with keeping hydrated, eating a big meal, closing your eyes, and talking. Talking was the best. Having something to squeeze too. When I close my eyes, I kinda hum to myself a little and it helps.
I had my first tattoo done 3 days ago. It was a small piece on my ribs on the right side. I won’t lie, it was extremely painful, but I found that imagining how good the final product would be helped me get through it. Tattoos are about pain, that’s what makes them unique. If you want it that bad, a little pain should not be an issue when you consider you will have a bada** piece for the rest of your life.
My 2 four hour sessions on my chest I had heavy metal playing and eyes closed. My arm tattoos I’ve chatted to the artist, eaten sweets and listened to music. It depends on my mood that day. I’ve found counting each time the needle hits helps when it’s a sensitive area. So once it hits the skin start counting. It helps me realise it’s temporary and I made it through the previous one so I can do the next bit too. I find the slicing sensation the worse, the vibrating pain one feels like multiple bee stings. When it went over my collar bone it felt like a chisel was chipping at my throat. Two areas were a cover up of small butterflies over a scar. So going over that again was pretty bad. All mine are colour too, so healings a bit more touch and go too. I’ve got my lower outer arm partial wrist Friday. Slightly dreading it but worth it for a beautiful tattoo. That’s what keeps me going, the end result of a beautiful piece of art.
Recently got a big stomach tattoo. Second session was about 7 hours. I have a high pain tolerance, and most of the tattoo was fine, but the last hour and a half (all on the ribs) was pretty brutal. I practiced controlled breathing throughout the tattoo to minimize stomach movement, but it also helped manage the pain and maintain focus. I didn’t try to ignore the pain, but rather I tried to make my brain reinterpret the pain as just another sensation. Mind over matter, if you will.
Great article — you mentioned my three go to’s 1. Talk with the artist but be mindful that they are also concentrating on your tattoo so evet now and again check with them that it’s okay to talk. 2. Control your breathing — nice and slow 3. It’s a one time pain — think of the amazing work you’ll have at the end. For reference I have a full arm sleeve and a half leg (lower) sleeve.
Thanks for these tips brother. 2 weeks ago I started a tattoo and I couldn’t bare the pain so I looked up articles like this one. Just yesterday I had a 4 hour session and the difference was day and night… I think having a good night sleep, no alcohol, being hydrated, having snacks, having something to distract you (I brought my laptop and played games) did the trick… I have another 3hour session coming in 2 weeks and I’m done. Anyways, just wanted to thank you! cheers!
My first tattoo was a simple script tattoo on my chest. I used Dr. Numb because I was told from a friend who have many large tattoos, the chest can be very painful. It lasted the majority of the tattoo process and the pain level was minimal. I went in a few months later to have it touched up and the artist chose to quickly go over the entire tattoo again, this time I didn’t use the numbing cream and again the pain level was minimal. I do realize there was no shading and I’m certain they are a whole different experience. I have been perusal these articles to have a better understanding of what I might experience and how to have the best long tattoo experience possible. They have been very helpful… definitely some suggestions and things I would have never thought about. Thank you for that. In 6 weeks I am booked in for a full colour sleeve, I’m booked in for 2 full days. AND the artist has suggested I not use numbing cream as she feels it changes how the skin responds to the ink and after talking to me feels I won’t find the pain as bad as I might be anticipating. I do have a fairly high pain tolerance in general. Wish me luck 😊. Thank you again for the thorough content… it’s what I needed. 😊
Hey man, I love your website. When I was 40 years old I decided to sleeve both of my legs. I have neuropathy so that means I have pain and numbness and tingling all the time in my legs. I use HUSH numbing gel and it works like a miracle for 2-hour sessions. After 2 hours, the pain hits you like a dump truck and it is worse than if you just went without. Without HUSH numbing gel I probably wouldn’t have been able to get all of my tattoos done as fast cuz I got both legs completely sleeved in 18 months.
1. Focus on your breathing, control the breathing. 2. headphones and phone (music or movie) 3. bringing carbohydrates / sugar / energy drink 4. Either a big pack of gums to chew through or even a mouthguard to bite. 5. Grip strengthener so you can hold hard onto it. 6. Eye Rolling, swearing, cursing the god for making you a wimpie simp.
All top advice. Being well rested, well hydrated and eating a big meal beforehand all help, as does going in with a positive, determined, upbeat, happy, excited mental attitude. Having a good working relationship with the tattoo artist helps because you can talk shit through the whole process! I find the design is the biggest pain factor. I find it all manageable, but repeated shading over the same opened-up area forces me to dig deep. Chewing some gum is another big help for me too – it works as a physical distraction. But I’m truly a world-class wuss, a champion wimp, and I’ve got eight with two more booked in, so if I can get through it pretty much anyone can. It’s a unique experience.
Eating a larger meal before a tattoo is definitely a good thing to do for sure. For me, I would also suggest incorporating sugar or something sweet into the meal just to bring up the blood sugars even more. For instance I just got a new tattoo on Monday (2 days ago at this point), and for breakfast I had french toast with lots of syrup and coffee with sugar in it, and that really seemed to help with the pain (caffeine so far has not made pain worse, it actually helps numb the discomfort because it relaxes me). Yeah when I got my forearm tattooed a couple months ago, I had just been diagnosed with IBS and was having massive stomach issues. So needless to say I didn’t really eat or drink anything before my appointment. Big mistake, I actually almost tapped out near the end of the session because it was almost unbearable. LOL so definitely learned my lesson on that one. Also in British Columbia (at least the city I am in), most shops do not allow you to bring food or drinks in for the appointment because of Covid. But I would definitely recommend bring a sugared drink and a snack for after your appointment to bring the blood sugars back up.
I just found your website! Love that you are in the GTA!! Your tattoos are incredible! I just got my first sleeve in February, actually, my first tattoo. I’m starting the second sleeve next week. You’ve been bang on with all of your advice. When certain spots got unbearable, I just kept saying in my head the pain isn’t bad for a lifetime of a badass tattoo. It’s important to find the right artist too, she talked to me the entire time so I was distracted and I was super comfortable with her.
What always helps me is to focus on one single item, whether that be a decoration on the wall, or the door, or even just a pencil and don’t be afraid to study what it looks like. It’s a good distraction, on top of what he said, don’t be afraid to cuss or make sounds or groan, as long as you’re not moving.
I have 10 tattoos, on one arm and another arm is 70% covered and while on many occasions I can almost fall asleep while getting tattooed, there are instances where it’s quite uncomfortable, especially the ones that took 4-6 hours to do. Fortunately, my tattoo artist actually became pretty much my best friend so talking to her, laughing, talking shit, definitely helps in terms of distractions, it’s all mental, and if you focus on the pain, it’s only gonna get worse. Another thing that helps me tremendously is music, just zoning out to some alternative rock/metalcore helps a lot in my case, focus on the beat or on the lyrics, close your eyes and take deep breathes.
I just got one 2 days ago and during my 3 hour session, me and my artist just talked and talked, laughed and it minimized the pain but I still focus on my breathing, look at my phone too. But yes it still hurts. I had a good meal before and drank plenty of water so my skin is hydrated. So far Healing process going well.
I have an old school, full color sleeve and used the TKTX 40% numbing cream for the inside of my bicep. It helped for a period of time, maybe 2-3 hours, but when it wore off (we were nowhere near done) the pain was much more intense than it was on other parts of my arm, it hade more of and edge to it. My tattoo artist had told me beforehand that this was likely to happen because sometimes the skin gets a thicker feel to it with cream and doesn´t take color as well so he has to work it over much more. The tattoo was also more swollen and tender in that area after the session, it did not have an impact on the healing process though. This may not be the case for everyone but it was for me. As far as pain management goes I´ve found that other than the things you listed in your article what has worked for me is counting, counting the time the needle is on your skin helps A LOT, it doesn’t lessen the actual pain but it helps with the mental. Time seemes to move slower when you are in pain, 5-7 seconds may feel like a full minute. So by counting you remind yourself that the pain is very temporary and for me it helps take the edge off.
Just had a portrait of my dog done on one side of my chest. My artist was great, we chatted for some parts, listened to music for others, she made sure I was comfortable at all times. So much so that I’m already thinking about getting another from her. I don’t know though if it will end up being a cover up or a completely new tattoo
I didn’t eat or drink any fluids for the entire day until after I got my tattoo… it makes getting a tattoo hurt way more. Don’t be a dumbass like me. Oh and I only slept for 3 hours the night before lol. The 4 hour tattoo drained me because of this. Compared to my other 4 hour tat I was completely fuckered
(As someone with a full sleeve, collarbone and ongoing leg sleeve! I regularly sit 8+ hour sittings on my leg) 1) Communicate with your artist, let them know if you need a break/they can move to another area if the design is big enough. 2) make sure you eat and drink something before, during and after. Have something sugary after to get your blood sugar up. 3) Take painkillers if you need to, just make sure they’re not blood-thinning etc. 4) DON’T BE AFRAID TO NUMB! Just make sure your artist is aware. 5) distract yourself! Talk to your artist in general conversation, listen to music/podcasts. Just don’t be rude about it!
Figure out how much time you can tolerate. I got my back done last year it took 35 hours all together. I booked appointments for 2 hours at a time. Some of my appointments I made it all the whole 2 hours so I fell short on. Don’t put yourself in a position to be overwhelmed. Don’t commit to a huge piece until you know that you can sit through it. It took me 2 years to get ready to get my whole back done. My artist convinced me that starting it before I was ready to commit would just leave me with an unfinished tattoo.
Just got my first tattoo yesterday. Full shoulder/short sleeve piece. 7 hour session. It sucked. No way around it. I just kept focusing on the money I would save by sitting longer once my artist hit his day rate cap, and just focused on doing a slow, steady inhale from start to finish of each needle stroke. Just the old “one foot in front of the other” kind of mental method.
I got my 1st professional tatto in Oct 2023, a chest plate tats of black & white koi fish in ying & yang formation. I was very nervous about the impending pain, didn’t know what/how much to expect. On cream, no aspirin…had some coffee and burger combo for lunch. 2 hour session, some area near the collar bone was the worst and near the nipple area. Going back for half sleeve tattoo, a Japanese style crane over the shoulder and integrated into the koi fish. Again, nervous about inner arm area and going across the shoulder to chest plate😅 I’ll follow your suggestions and deal with it best I can. Thanks for good advice🫡👍🤙👌
My artist used “tktx” blue cream for my bf when he got tattoed on the chest and he said it does not hurt at all, and later on when he addded some pieces on chest he went without the cream and said it hurt like hell, so i guess that one is working pretty well. When I got tattoed on my arm he used same cream but yellow packaging and it did hurt a little but it was managable. So i guess blue one is better. Also we are from Europe so idk if u can find them everywhere. Thanks for the articles man.
Well said! All the tips are great. Me and my artist are friends, we always talk and laugh. She recommends to get tattooed for 3 hours, not more, my skin just can’t take more. Never used the numbing cream. I have my forearms and my right leg full tattooed. Inner arms, knee, and ankle was super painful. I always watch what she’s doing, it makes it hurt less.
Hi yeah some good points. I have various areas of my body tattooed and just recently had an eight hour session on my thigh. Would definitely agree with the following. Drink plenty of water a few days before your session and try to cut out any caffeine. On the day eat a big meal about a couple of hours beforehand. Take a bag with you with water and some sugary drinks. Also that something to eat and take some fruit with you so you can top up your sugar levels, banana and mango and grapes are all good for that. Take a distraction, download some music or a movie that you can listen to or watch. Take breaks when you need them, don’t drink alcohol or take painkillers about 48 hours beforehand. Get some good rest in before your session. Don’t get hung up on thinking about the pain, relax and don’t get anxious. Talk to your artist if they are a talkative person throughout These tips will help you enjoy your session and the overall experience.
I had a 10hr session on my inner bicep the other day. The first 3 hours were a breeze, then color at hour 6 was pretty painful and the last stretch was hellish not gonna lie, even wiping hurt. What helped the most was chatting with the tattoo artist about anything to keep me distracted, TRY TO SPEAK cause you will be concentrated in forming sentences rather that the needle. Also EMBRACE THE PAIN, that sounds weird i know, but resisting and tensing your body is gonna make it worse, relax and remember its gonna be okay 🙂 A good meal and sleep is key, no painkillers, no caffeine, no alcohol nor drugs of any kind. Be vocal, your artist is a person too and will understand! Tell them how you feel and let them know if you are dizzy or wanna pass out. I hope this helps! and good luck to anyone who´s getting a tattoo soon they are so worth it 🙂
I just had my leg sleeve worked on yesterday. She got onto the front part where the bone is closest. And OMG!!! I wanted to cry. I’ve never felt a worse tattoo pain lol so these tips will be much appreciated when I go back in 2 weeks to finish the top half of my leg! I also found it helpful bringing my own little pillow to bury my face in/squeeze the shit out of when it got intense
Hey bro, Just finished up back to back sessions with Branden and I have something I think you and everyone else should try. CBD gummies! So I always have them in the house to help me sleep during stressful times. One gummy is 5mg and knocks me out every time. You can get a 100mg bag of gummies for $12 Because of the anxiety and pain of the tattoo there’s obviously no way I could’ve had a snooze but the CBD really puts you in a zone and you don’t even think about what’s going on. It helps you to focus on your movie/music rather than needles puncturing your skin for hours on end. Like I said, normally one gummy would put me to sleep but throughout the 10-11 hour sessions I would take 6. I would be really out of it but I found it made the long days more bearable and because it’s all natural there is no guilt or worry for taking it. I also took it after my laser tattoo removal sessions and I found that I would recover in a fraction of the time Sorry for the novel but since your no stranger to long hours under the needle I think it’s something you should try One last thing, I would only get the cbd gummies not the 50%cbd50%weed the give you a totally different sensation
New subscriber and I love this website. Got my 10th tattoo today an arm sleeve and I used numbing cream for the first time ever and it worked a lot. I used Dr. Numb and wrapped it before my appointment time. The only thing is I noticed it started to wear off the last 10 minutes which wasn’t bad at all.
I’m pretty later, but I got my first tattoo on my forearm pretty big piece for a first but worth it! It felt like violent pin and needles but it only really hurt when it got to the middle part and near the wrist, only part that I’ll say I found the most painful was the white ink part and the healing process, currently on the 11th day so nearly healed and already have plans on getting my second haha! And what I did was watch anime on my phone and talk to the artist as well, we’re both fans of Dbz(But to be honest with you, paying for it is what hurt the most).
I have had 9 tattoo sessions since 5th of october. And the pain just get worse every time! The first to sessions was my right forearm (outside the inside was already done 2 years ago). Then I have had 7 sessions working on my Nightmare Before Christmas theme sleeve on my left arm. Almost done. Have one more shorter touch up session at 18th of december. I did use numbing creme on the inside of my biceps. It really helped the first two hours. But then as the skinn gets torn up the pain gets there and it hurts like hell in the end. But at least I got two hours less of pain.
I usually bring headphones and watch movies or whatever. I strike up convos with my artist, watch my movie/ tv show or listen to music and it really helps. In terms of the caffeine thing I always drink a cup of coffee the morning before and of my tattoo session and have never had any issues. However I wouldn’t drink a whole bunch of coffee and energy drinks that could complicate things
I just got a new tattoo last night in Pittsburgh, I forgot how much it hurts lol but I just kept my mind off of it by talking to my tattoo artist, perusal TV and listening to all of the conversations around me. My tattoo reaches my elbow to my wrist so its pretty large. The part that hurt the most was the little coloring i got in my lions eye. After an hour in I honestly stopped feeling it then after that another hour and it started to get sore and burn.
I typically use Hush when I am going to be sitting for a day. It really only helps for 3-4 hours, but I find if I start with Hush I am less physically exhausted after a 8-13 hour session. Also, my artist starting using TAC. This stuff is incredible. It goes on by the artist and he can immediately start tattooing directly over it. Great for places like the inside of your arm, ditch of arm or knee, top of foot.
I Have 2 Long tattoos on my leg and honestly, the 1st one I did, had a nice meal before the tattoo but I didn’t go prepared for a long 5 hours of pain and It hurt me alot also got headache and a little fever. The 2nd one I took a big meal on my bag and water and that’s what helped me tho …alot XD now I gotta keep moving on with more tattoos soon
oddly enough i find that if you’re nervous going into the tattoo about the pain it tends to boost your adrenaline and it ends up feeling less painful, I’ve also tested out a numbing cream with the thought of using it for more painful areas and the brand tattoo numbing co is amazing ive sat for a 5.5/ 6 hour tattoo and felt no pain
Just got a full chest piece traditional Bald eagle, the outline was definitely the worst but it wasn’t too bad on the pecs but it definitely hurt, when he got into the sternum it felt like he was digging out my chest, super painful but wasn’t unbearable, shading wasn’t anything compared to the outline considering he did a bold outline, 6 hours in and the shading started to hurt like hell as well though
I have used numming cream for the color in my foot but i dont know what one he used….it helped for sure but it was a hard spot so it really hurt no matter what….my whole top ofy foot got covered….i also got one on the ribs….didnt have any numming cream for that one and luckily it wasnt a big tattoo so it didnt take that long.
I have two small tattoos and am getting my first larger piece don in a couple days… first tattoo I almost tapped out I felt ALL the sensations it was terrible. The second tattoo I got I thought I was gonna need to come back for a touch up because i felt no pain at all. Like none. 0. It’s been like 5 months and it still looks like I got it yesterday. So I’m not sure what to expect with this 4 hour session coming up 😂
It’s interesting how many ppl in the comments recommend talking to the artist. I‘ve heard a few artists say that they don’t like talking while tattooing bc it’s distracting and could affect their concentration level and performance. I guess it wouldn’t be a bad idea to ask the artist beforehand so both parties feel comfortable.
I got my first tattoo two days ago. It was a small one so it only took about 20 minutes. I looked away the entire time coz I knew that helped me when I got shots. I played a game and went on social media to distract myself. I had two bowls of ramen and a cup of milk beforehand. In the middle of it, I had the experience where you stand up too fast and see white for a few seconds but after they gave me some suckers and two cups of cold water, I felt better. I love my tattoo but my next one won’t be for at least a year.
When I did Everything wrong on my first tattoo. First day back to work after getting covid. A ten hour shift in demolition. I tripped and bruised my ribs. Traveled two hours to where the tattoo shop was that night. Only had one meal after work. Also done by an apprentice so it took them two hours just to do the outline on a not so big tattoo. I was Shaking on the way home. I… will not do those things for the next ones.
Getting work done for 40 yrs go to Walmart get a tube of recticare put it on pretty thick 1hr before wrap it in plastic wrap the heat will activate it it will last close to 2hrs feels like someone is rubbing their finger on you. And there’s sprays you can get on Amazon for long hrs he can spray on you.
I find chewing gum, listening to music and playing simple games is the best. In the areas that the pain is the worst, even simple games become complicated and it challenges me to focus on the game instead of the tattoo. Games like black jack. Chewing gum helps bite down on something and music can motivate me for the war!
I’m not lying or bigging myself up but I’ve got 21 tattoos and never felt pain. I’ve felt achy but not pain. Make sure you’ve had a good sleep, make sure you’ve have a good meal before hand, I always eat something sweet and drink a sugary drink. I also meditate. My next tattoo is a hand tattoo so I may feel pain then lol
I have a dream tattoo I’ve wanted since I was a teenager up until now that I’m an adult. But my first tattoo wasn’t a good experience, it hurt so much, it felt like I was being carved, it was so unbearable. I was so embarrassed because I was swearing and groaning the whole time. Now I don’t know if I will be able to do my dream tattoo that will start on my back and go down to the arms.
Hey I’m the one talking 2 u about reviewing my mafia sleeve on Instagram..It’s funny you say that the wiping hurts after a while I got lucky because my artist would wet paper towel And it made such a difference with wiping and the pain the wet paper towel made it so soft compared to a dry rough paper towel
WIM HOF BREATHING. Do it right before. Pop 2-3 Tylenols right before. Lastly, deep controlled breathing during the tattoo really helps you achieve mind over matter mindset. Tattoo pain in itself is a great form of meditation. It sends your mind to a space that is hard to reach without some sort of suffering.
I had a really big tattoo that was starting to get the best of me during a session, and my artist used a bottle of numbing spray, he briefly opened up the skin with a machine that had no ink In it and ran it over the really painful areas, that needed a lot of work, really fast and then sprayed the solution on and wrapped it and waited 10 minutes before doing it. I swear it took 99 percent of the pain away in almost The whole area, I only felt pressure. It didn’t last more than 30 minutes I’d say, but it was absolutely worth it especially in the really painful areas.
For me personally I have a high pain tolerance and I find it therapeutic but I must prepare myself mentally first a day before hand good 8-10hours sleep, drink lots of water stay hydrated make sure the area is well moisturised before my tattoo I eat carb up, smoke a nice spliff afterwards listen to music and relax myself and release tension from my body I close my eyes and try to focus my mind and talk to the tattoo artist
I was super scared when I got my first tattoo. And I mean it hurts but I don’t think it’s nearly as bad as people say. I actual fell asleep for a moment when I got my back piece. I will say though Doing two days in a row is super shitty. When the needle touches skin that started to just heal I actually jumped when he first started on day two.
I got a tattoo on my thigh and other than perusal movies, breathing deeply helps a lot. Also thinking about how cool my body art will look also helps. My go to is something carb heavy like pancakes with hash browns before the session. It didn’t hurt once I got used to it but at the last hour (the whole session was 3 hours) it started to feel annoying and that’s when it started to hurt. I’m getting my forearm done and I’m scared but also excited.
I’m not very experienced with numbing cream but have used it once before for a trial and have did some research on numbing creams and there are different types of numbing cream that work differently there are some that you put on before you start the tattoo and there is some you put on while you’re getting the tattoo they also work differently as well & if you don’t set through a tattoo session that last for 4 or more hours it won’t hurt as bad keep you’re sessions short 1.5 to 3 hours then schedule another appointment & keep coming back until the tattoo is done in between sessions give yourself two to three weeks for you’re body to heal a experienced tattoo artist can complete a lot of work in 1.5 to 3 hours not to mention it’s actually easier on them to do short sessions as apposed to a 4 or more hour session because they will have other clients before and after you
What works for me is I sing sea shanty’s in my head whenever I have to deal with a 6 or 8 hour tattoo, but most of the time it hurts a little bit but what really bothers me are artists that wipe too hard or when the needle vibrates because when it vibrates it bothers other untouched nerves thus feels like it’s stabbing you in a fresh spot.
Vasicane is the shit. After the line work gets done. Have them spray it with Vasicane then wrap it with celiphane and take a 10 minute break. After that you will be totally numb in that spot till the next day. All the long hours of shading will be a breeze. Sat 9 hours with zero pain after it was applied. All artist need to be doing this
Tattoo numbing co and painless tattoo have good numbing creams. Can’t feel a thing. But yes when it wears off it burns way worse. So if your tattoo is under 4 hrs you will love it. And also if your artist is cool with stopping and applying more you could do it in sections and do it for 8 hrs basically. My artist is cool and works with me on that. He would rather me sit still then anything. But I will say the inner bicept was not bad for me when I used the cream. Did 3-3 hr days tho
Does anyone have the thousand prickling sensation running down their leg when the needle is on you? That is the only I hate about getting tats. My last one was so bad for it I couldn’t focus on anything and had to ask my artist to take a couple seconds longer between ink. What is that?! How do I stop that?
i had my head tattood, thick black lines (ragnar lothbroks head tattoo) my best way of coping is i watched sports on my phone. talking to the artist was impossible because your skull is getting drilled which to me was loud as shit. i tried to relax my body as much as possible and just zone into the sports game.
Mithra plus numbing cream works well for 6-8 hour sessions. Make sure you cake that shit on though and cover it. Apply it about 90 minutes out from your tattoo session. Also let your artist know you’ll be using the cream and ask what area you’ll be working on so you can apply it to the right spot. Game changer
I’ve recently used numbing cream on a 5 hour tattoo i used 1 and 1/2. Hours before. Getting it rubbed in wrapped with plastic wrap. ALTHOUGH I still felt. Pain it helped I have been getting tattoos over 20 years 1st time user but will definitely use again for long sessions. Brand is called numbskin🕐 on scale from 1 -10 my pain was at like a 5
The talking to someone worked so damn well for me during my last tattoo session. It was just me and the artist and some music in the background… and the pain was pretty bad. But then we started talking about stuff & I explained to her what D&D (Dungeons & Dragons) is and after quite a long while I suddenly realised that she was still tattooing me… I just hadn’t noticed anymore! 😂 Also: there is one tip that I wish I hadn’t followed, which is to not drink caffeine the day of – and preferably the day before… so I did that. And had a massive headache for almost the entire session 😵
my method is kinda weird and might not work for everyone.Obviously eating a big meal, staying hydrated and having a good sleep are really important.I usually just pinch or sorta poke the area that i’ll be getting tattooed on like at least a week or two before my appointment. It helps your body get prepared for the pain and build up the pain tolerance. I had one on my right arm without that method and later had one on my left arm with the method and the left one hurt less. Idk if it’s gonna work but it’s worth a try 😂
I just got my first tattoo yesterday and its a pretty decent size from my hip to thigh and my artist told me i sat like a rock and I was so proud then the shading came and I was like “oh nah baby this ain’t gone work”😭😭😭 i tapped out an hour into shading i couldn’t deal, my hip & leg were sooo sensitive after the linework😂😂 and the hip part for the shading was another type of pain. When he would wipe there i wanted to scream but every where else wasn’t as bad when wiped. I wish I had thought to get numbing cream for the shading lmao i was told it hurts but they didn’t say how fucking bad😂💀
I’m 61. Got first tattoo at 15 years old. Have both upper arms and chest tatts. So most of my tatts are over 40 years old. Some are jail tatts, done with the motor from a cassette player and single sewing needles. Tattoo parlour definitely had less pain. Jail tatts hurt like a son of a bitch. I recently started getting neck and inner wrists done. Modern machines and the sharper needles definitely hurt a lot less. Had one 6 hour session so far and have another 2 x 6 hour sessions to go. First 4 hours were a doddle. The last 2 hours was when pain started to kick in. The once soft wipe felt like a fucking loofah. Also for me the neck bled more than anywhere else…which apparently is normal cause of the large veins and arteries. For me the distraction technique worked the best. I used earbuds and listened to an audio book. It was a biography on Keith Richards narrated by Johnny Depp. I also think that putting your body in a position where the skin in the area getting tattooed is as tight as possible is less painful. Apart from distraction and tight skin I also did the pre- moisturising for a week prior. Had a full stomach and no pain meds on the day and definitely no alcohol. Not looking forward to getting the adams apple done though.
Use a good unscented lotion or aquaphor on my skin all the time even before I ever got a tattoo. I bring high carb and protein snacks. I ate fudge brownies and drank lots of water. I watched Netflix and talked to the shows. Then my bff called and we talked. I even listened to music and sang songs. And when it got to be too much I would say stuff like eeek or I’d ask my artist to stop for a sec so I can laugh. It hurt but it was funny to me for some reason. My artist discouraged numbing cream. She stated that it makes the skin less likely to hold the ink well.
so i recently got a small tattoo of my zodiac sign along with my 2 kids on the top of my forearm between my wrist and elbow and it worked i literally felt no pain at all and it nearly put me to sleep… lol i twitched couple times waking me… wish that this is what tattoos always felt like… but u r correct when u say when it wares off that pain and discomfort is worse… it felt like razors slicing my skin… is this normal??? but that could also just b me cuz im a baby when it comes to pain… idk how i got through both tattoos on each bicep and they r big… lol anyways the numbing creme works for short periods of time… now my question is once that wares off how can i minimalize any pain or discomfort thats to come?? can i reapply numbing creme? i use Elma Cream (topical anestheic for dermal analgesia).
For some reason I found looking at the tattoo being done, helped with the pain. When I wasn’t looking at it, it felt like it was piercing way deeper than it actually was. When i would look at it and saw that it wasn’t as deep as it felt, somehow the pain subsided. It’s painful. Anyone that says it’ not is BSing. Think about what a tattoo is! It’s a needle piercing and scraping your skin off. You’re body does not like that! But humans are incredible at adapting to shit they’re not used to. It’s painful but bearable. I’ve felt worse. I had a really bad tooth infection once and the only way they could numb it enough to work on it, was to put the anesthetic directly on the exposed nerve inside of my drilled tooth. Buddy……. That is pain!!!! I would think of that while I was getting tatted. The tatt was a 2-3 out of 10, in comparison to the 20 out of 10, for that injection on my exposed nerve. Comparing it to worse pain that you’ve felt before also helps.
Just had my 4th tattoo and the best for me is talking about other things with the artist but this one I had a point I was going to quite but it was in the same area but different leg but i don’t understand why this was more painful than the other when it’s the same muscle type, but I sucked it up anyway 😃
Did an 8hr recently and getting ready for another. My artist is Walter “Sausage” Frank. He is great at keeping conversation and is an open book of knowledge. We had a ton of similar interests and so we were able to hold conversation throughout the 8hr session and it went by in a flash. Only one section did the pain actually cause me to react (I winced and said “oh”). When he got to a section where there was minimal tissue and easily felt near a bone, but even then we laughed about it and just talked through it. Also knowing the price I was paying just put me in the mindset of “there is no way I’m gonna get up” which I only did once to use the bathroom 😂. He said I sat like a champ. Can’t wait to start my chest section this month!
It stops hurting after 15-30 minutes because your adrenaline kicks in and then after 2 or 3 hours you lose that adrenaline in mu opinion. I eat 6 eggs 3 hours before my appointment and drink at least 3 bottles of water before appointment. I’ve got 23 hours into my legs and the knees were the worst part but I’ve barley touched the back of the knee
When I got my tattoo it hurt really bad only in a few areas and when I talked to my sister I barely felt it but I am getting the tattoo covered up cause I want something more exciting and new and something that looks better. I never had the experience of using numbing cream but I don’t think I ever will if I’m being honest I feel like your more in the moment if you don’t but I don’t know ALSO DINT LET NO ONE SET THE INK FOR YOU ITS WHEN THEY SLAP YOUR FRESH TATTOO I cried it hurt so bad
Tbh, Im almost done on a full sleeve( mine’s a japanese sleeve, so a shit ton of shading xd), it’s really not that painful (manageable if you take deep breaths), however, to me what makes me dreaded going to these sessions is how long it takes and its very tiring. Like it’s a session for 4 hours +, and it takes 6 session total for a arm. And you sit there, in these sometimes uncomfortable weird position, sweating, in some pain and the worst part, you can’t really do anything. That’s the worst part imo, not the pain but like it very tiring to get one session thru.
I recently got the top part of my sleeve done, my entire left arm is an anime themed tattoo and I started getting it done in 2017, so for the most part of the small or medium sized tattoos were very managable but the big sleeve piece was the one that got me. I had to tap out and get it done in 2 sessions ( one more to go ) although my artist is freaking amazing and does absolute killer details, is it supposed to hurt this much ? Its mostly grey colored with 5 to 6 shades of grey. Always had this question. But regardless your article was extremely helpful ! I often try to blast my ears with slipknot and that helps alot:D also your sleeves look amazing !