Navigating Sensitive Areas for Traditional Tattoos in San Diego

As a traditional tattoo artist here in San Diego, I'm often asked about the most sensitive spots to get inked. Pain tolerance varies wildly between clients, but there are certain body parts that tend to be more nerve-laden than others.

In this blog, I'll share techniques and tips for dealing with discomfort, as well as provide guidance on handling sensitive zones when getting traditional tattoos.

It's important to remember that pain is subjective and depends on many factors like tattoo placement and personal pain thresholds. What may feel excruciating to some feels like little more than a tickle to others. My goal is to make sure every client feels as comfortable as possible throughout the process.

Below I'll go through some of the areas that clients often report being particularly sensitive when getting tattooed:

•Ribs - This bony area with little fat or muscle can amplify feelings of vibration and discomfort. Proper breathing is key.

•Inner Bicep - Lots of nerve endings get stimulated in the soft inner arm. Staying relaxed helps.

•Inner Elbow - Similar to inner bicep, with the added bonus of visible squirming. Keep muscles loose.

•Back of Knee - Sensitive bending location where ink vibrates highly. Hydration and rest paramount.

•Sternum - Bony chest plate right over heart. Can be anxious location. Focus on calming conversation.

•Spine - Intricate nerve center of back prone to sensation. Precision and care required.

•Tops of Feet - also sensitive location, healing can be tricky while wearing shoes.

Tattoo pain chart by color, as a visual guide.

I want to provide an important word of caution about some numbing products marketed for tattoos that contain high levels of lidocaine. The FDA has issued warnings regarding brands selling creams, gels, and sprays containing over 5% lidocaine, which exceeds regulations for over-the-counter standards. When applied heavily across large areas or under occlusive wraps, these extra-strength formulas can lead to concerning side effects like irregular heartbeat, seizures, and breathing difficulties. They may also interact poorly with medications or supplements you might be taking.

As your trusted artist, I strongly advise against using these unapproved numbing agents. The minimal extra relief they provide is not worth endangering your health over. I'm happy to discuss safer topical ointments and proven techniques to help you get through tattoo sessions comfortably. Your wellbeing is always my top concern.

For each sensitive spot, there are methods I suggest to help manage discomfort:

Proper breathing - Don't hold breath, focus on slow measured inhales/exhales

Staying hydrated and fed - Drink water and eat before/after; avoids lightheadedness

Listening to music - Puts mind at ease and serves as a distraction

Focusing on conversation - My chatter redirects attention from needle

Being well rested - Fatigue lowers tolerance; get a good night's sleep

Short breaks - Stop briefly if needed; there's no shame at all

I also provide aftercare advice tailored to sensitive areas, as they require gentle handling to avoid infection or irritation during healing. Starting with less sensitive placement is another good option to incrementally build pain tolerance over time.

The bottom line is with mindfulness of placement, proper preparation and an experienced artist, getting tattooed even in notoriously sensitive areas can absolutely be manageable. I've worked with many clients to help them feel as comfortable as possible. Please don't hesitate to contact me to discuss techniques and optimal placements for your traditional tattoo ideas. I'm always happy to consult!