Tattoos are a popular form of self-expression, allowing us to show off our individual style while also expressing ourselves in a more permanent way. Getting a tattoo can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to know the best places to get one so that you end up with something that you’ll love forever. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to get a tattoo on your body, as well as answer some frequently asked questions about tattoos. We’ll also give you some useful tips for getting the most out of your tattoo experience. So if you’re thinking about taking the plunge and getting inked, read on!
The Heart Area
The heart area is a popular spot for tattoos, as it’s symbolic of love and devotion. When getting a tattoo in this area, choose something small that can fit neatly inside or around the shape. You might want to consider choosing a design that carries special meaning for you so that your tattoo will always remind you of why you got it. [1]
The Forearm
The forearm is one of the most popular places for tattoos – and for good reason! It can be easily hidden or exposed, depending on your preference. One common design on the forearm is a “sleeve” tattoo which covers the entirety of the arm. This type of tattoo is typically done in a series of multiple sessions over an extended period of time. When opting for a forearm tattoo, the inner forearm is generally the most popular placement as it provides more space to work with and can be easily concealed if need be.
The advantage of getting a tattoo on your forearm is that you have plenty of room to work with, which gives your artist much freedom in terms of design. As well, the skin on your forearm is relatively flat and this can help ensure that your tattoo will stay looking sharp for years to come. [1]
Adorable Places for Placing Tattoos
When it comes to getting a tattoo, placement is key. You want a location that’s attractive and appropriate for your design.
Here are some of the most popular areas for tattoos:
- Arms – The upper arms are among the most common locations for tattoos. They’re visible without being too obvious, and the skin is fairly easy to work with;
- Back – The back is a great place for larger tattoos, from shoulder blades to lower backs and beyond. It’s also one of the most popular locations for traditional Japanese tattoo designs like dragons and koi fish;
- Feet and Ankles – The feet and ankles are subtle but still attractive locations for tattoos. They can be easily covered up with shoes, socks, or pants, so they’re a good choice if you’re not looking to show off your ink all the time [1];
Ankle
Ankles are a popular spot to get a tattoo, particularly if you want it to be visible but also subtle. The area is relatively easy to hide and also provides an ideal canvas for intricate designs or flowing lines.
If you’re considering getting a tattoo on your ankle, make sure the skin isn’t too thin or bony. You also need to ensure you have plenty of access to the area for aftercare and touch-ups, as well as being careful not to make it too close to your joints in case it restricts movement.
When choosing a design for an ankle tattoo, think about what will look best when exposed and how it will look when covered up. If you want to keep it subtle, consider smaller designs or even a single line or heart shape rather than a large piece of artwork. [1]
Classic Places to Get Tattoos
Most people will choose a classic place to get their first tattoo. These often consist of areas on the body that are easily accessible and not too painful. Here are some popular choices:
- Upper arm/shoulder: Upper arms and shoulders are the most common places for tattoos since they’re relatively easy to cover up if you need to. Plus, they provide a nice, large canvas to work with;
- Lower back: The lower back is popular among women and provides an area of skin that can be covered up easily if needed. It’s best to avoid getting tattoos too close to the spine, however, as this can cause pain and make it more difficult to heal properly;
- Wrist: The wrist is one of the most popular places for small tattoos, such as simple words or symbols. Since it’s a thin area of skin, there can be some pain involved, but it usually heals quickly and looks beautiful when done correctly [1];
Wrist
Wrist tattoos are a great option if you want something small and discreet. They’re usually the first tattoo someone gets because they’re in an easily visible spot, but they can be covered up with clothing or jewelry if need be.
The downside to wrist tattoos is that they tend to fade quickly due to friction from daily activities. Another downside is that some employers may see wrist tattoos as unprofessional. So, make sure you do your research before getting inked!
If you want to get a tattoo on your wrist, look for an experienced artist who specializes in small tattoos. Make sure they use sterile equipment and high-quality ink and follow all aftercare instructions. [1]
Finger Spaces
Finger spaces are a popular choice for tattoos, as they’re small and discreet. Plus, you can show them off or hide them easily depending on the situation. Just make sure to choose a design that won’t be too thin or misshapen when scaled down to fit the tiny area of your fingers. It’s also important to consider the direction in which your fingers move when you make a fist, as this could cause the tattoo to stretch or distort over time.
When it comes to placement on your finger, there are several options. You can get the tattoo centered in between the knuckle and first joint of your finger, or opt for something more abstract like a spiral or wave pattern. You could also go with a “ring” design around your finger, or place the tattoo on the back side of your finger for a hidden look. [1]
Hands
Hands and fingers are popular choices for tattoos, but it’s important to remember that these areas of the body become more wrinkled and worn with age. Because of this, certain images may not look as good when you get older. It’s a good idea to keep designs on hands and fingers simple, such as small words or symbols.
If you want a tattoo on your hands, make sure to choose an experienced artist who knows how to work with small areas. People may also want to consider using lighter colors than they would on other areas of the body since skin tends to absorb more pigment in these spots. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that tattoos on the hands can be more painful than in other places due to a higher concentration of nerve endings. [1]
Finally, tattoos on the hands may not always be easy to hide if you need or want to do so in certain situations. Think carefully before getting a tattoo in this area!
Aftercare for Tattoos
Aftercare is essential for keeping your tattoo looking great, so it’s important to follow the advice of your artist. Most tattoos require a few weeks of aftercare in order to heal properly and look their best. Here are some tips to help you ensure that your new tattoo looks its best:
- Clean the tattoo with mild soap and warm water twice a day;
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or an unscented lotion to keep the tattoo lubricated;
- Avoid swimming, soaking in tubs, or exposing your new tattoo to direct sunlight for at least two weeks;
- Keep your hands off – don’t pick, scratch, or rub the area;
- Avoid wearing tight clothing that may rub against the tattoo and irritate it;
- If possible, cover the tattoo with a bandage for extra protection [1];
Lower Back
Getting a tattoo on the lower back area is one of the most popular spots for body ink. The skin here is sensitive, making it hard to get a detailed design, but if you have a simple concept in mind then this can be the perfect area. It’s important to note that due to the close proximity of organs and bones, this area can be quite painful to get tattooed. Additionally, the skin on this part of the body may stretch due to age or pregnancy and cause the ink to blur over time. [1]
Neck
Also, think about the size of the tattoo; smaller designs tend to look better on this area of the body as larger tattoos can be too overpowering for the neck. When getting a neck tattoo, it’s important to be aware of the possibility of fading over time due to sun exposure and skin stretching. If you decide to go for a larger design, make sure you choose a darker ink color so that it stands out more against your skin tone. [1]
Back
Back tattoos are eye-catching and can be great conversation starters, but they do come with a few considerations. Depending on your profession or lifestyle, getting a tattoo on your back may not be the best decision. Some employers frown upon tattoos in general and having one located prominently on the back could lead to some issues. [1]
Best Places to Get Tattoos that Look Complex
You might want a tattoo that looks complex, but you don’t want it to be too visible. In that case, there are certain body parts that work best:
- The shoulder is an excellent place for complex tattoos. It is well-proportioned and the fleshy area around it can accommodate intricate designs. Also, you can make the shoulder tattoo as large or small as you wish;
- The lower back is another excellent spot for complex tattoos. It’s a good spot if you want to hide your artwork from time to time. The area just above the waistline is ideal because it’s easily covered up with most types of clothing;
- The upper arm is also a great spot for complex tattoos. It’s an area that can handle intricate designs and the muscles give them a more dynamic look. The bicep and elbow are both excellent spots for detailed artwork; [1]
Chest
Chest tattoos are one of the most popular body art locations among both men and women. They can be quite striking, as the large area offers plenty of space for larger designs or a mural-style piece. However, they can also be subtle with small symbols or words.
When it comes to placement, there’s quite a bit of flexibility on the chest. It can be centered, placed at the top or bottom, wrap around the back, or anywhere in between. [1]
Eyebrows
Eyebrow tattoos are becoming increasingly popular. Although the area is small, a lot of thought must go into choosing where to place your ink. Many people opt for the inner side of their eyebrows, as this allows for more flexibility when styling their eyebrows, but you can also choose anywhere along the arch. On the other hand, some prefer to get a tattoo on the bridge of their nose, either directly above or below both brows.
The key to getting eyebrow tattoos is to make sure that your artist has experience with this area and will be able to give you the best advice for placement. When done correctly, an eyebrow tattoo can look very natural and enhance your overall look. [1]
Inner Wrist
The inner wrist is a popular place to get a tattoo, and it’s easy to see why. It’s not too visible but still easy to show off when desired. This spot is ideal for short quotes or small symbols that are meaningful to you.
While the skin on this area of your body is relatively thin and tender, it is still considered a good option for those wanting to start their ink journey. However, given the softness of the skin, tattoos in this area can be prone to fading and distortion faster than other parts of the body with thicker skin. [1]
Shoulders
The area around your shoulder blade is an ideal spot for a large tattoo because it’s relatively free of nerve endings, so the tattooing process will be relatively painless. This area is also less prone to sagging as you get older, which will help preserve the look and details of your tattoo. Shoulders are a great spot for floral designs, larger script tattoos, or anything that requires plenty of space. [1]
Stomach
Stomach tattoos are becoming increasingly popular, as they provide a large surface area to be decorated with a meaningful design. The best thing about stomach tattoos is that they can easily be covered up when needed, making them ideal for people who need to adhere to certain dress codes. However, the stomach can also be quite sensitive and prone to sweat, so it’s important to choose a reputable artist who knows how to work with this area of the body. It’s also important to consider the fact that stomach tattoos can become distorted over time due to changes in weight and skin elasticity. To avoid this, make sure you discuss any concerns with your tattoo artist before getting inked. [1]
Factors to Consider Before Getting Tattoos
Are you thinking about getting a tattoo? Before you take the plunge, it’s important to consider all of the factors involved. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Pain tolerance: Everyone has a different pain tolerance when it comes to tattoos. Some people find it more uncomfortable than others. Make sure you know how you’ll react before committing to a tattoo;
- Placement: Where you choose to place your tattoo is important. Consider how visible it will be and if that’s something you’re comfortable with. Some areas are more painful than others, so this can also influence your decision;
- Design: Think about the size, shape, and colors of the tattoo you want. Do some research to find out what designs might work best for your body type;
- Aftercare: Tattoos require proper aftercare in order to look their best. Make sure you read up on how to take care of your new tattoo so it can last a long time;
- Cost: Tattoos can be expensive, so make sure you factor in the cost when deciding if it’s right for you. Keep in mind that some places may offer discounts or deals, so it’s worth doing your research [1];
Below Abdomen
Below your abdomen is a great location for tattoos, especially if you’d like to keep it hidden from the public. The skin in this area is usually quite smooth and relatively easy to work with. This makes it an ideal spot for those looking to get their first tattoo or trying out intricate designs that may require precision. [1]
Below Ears
The area below the ears is a popular spot for tattoos. Many people appreciate the visual beauty and symbolism of a tattoo in this location. The skin here is generally thin, which allows for great detail in any design you choose. However, because it’s a sensitive area, tattoos below the ear may be more painful than other parts of the body. [1]
Adorable Behind-The-Ear Tattoos
Behind-the-ear tattoos are some of the most adorable, and usually very subtle, tattoos you can get. You can choose a design that wraps around your lobe or something small and delicate like a star or heart. Depending on the size and complexity of your design, it won’t take too long to complete the tattoo session either. And if you’re worried about it being too visible, you can always get a tiny design or hide it under your hair. [1]
Calf
Calf tattoos are a popular choice for people who prefer to cover up their ink on certain occasions. The calf muscle provides plenty of room for a bigger tattoo, so your design can be as intricate or simple as you’d like. Plus, since it’s near the ankle and lower leg, there’s far less pain here than in other areas.
When deciding where on the calf to place your tattoo, consider going for a symmetrical pattern. This will create an even look that won’t draw too much attention. You can also opt for a more abstract design if you’re feeling adventurous and want something unique. Just make sure that you have enough space so your design is still visible when you flex your calf muscle.[1]
Feet
Feet tattoos can be a great way to express yourself, or simply stand out from the crowd! The feet are one of the least painful places to get a tattoo as they contain fewer nerve endings than other areas. On top of that, you can easily cover up your feet with clothing if you ever decide to hide them. However, be aware of the fact that tattoos on the feet usually fade faster than in other areas due to frequent contact with shoes and socks.
When deciding where exactly you want your tattoo placed, keep in mind that certain spots are more prone to pain – the toes and heels being some of the most sensitive areas. As far as design goes, small and simple tattoos work best on feet as they are easier to hide and often look more aesthetically pleasing when placed in such a small space.[1]
Mons Pubis
If you decide to get inked in the pubic area, be sure to find a reputable artist who has experience tattooing in sensitive areas. Also, make sure you are aware of any risk involved and use numbing cream if needed. [1]
Buttocks
Buttocks tattoos can be seen as daring and fun. These tattoos come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and designs—from subtle lines to intricate geometric shapes. They are also one of the more unusual places to put a tattoo since it’s not an area that is often visible or seen. However, if you want something unique, then a buttocks tattoo is an excellent choice.
When considering this area for a tattoo, it’s important to think about the placement and size of the design. Smaller tattoos are ideal as they won’t stretch when the buttock muscles move or change shape over time. For larger designs, you’ll need to make sure that your skin is able to stretch and move with the design. [1]
Eyeballs
Getting a tattoo on your eyeballs can be a unique way to make a statement. If you’re an ink enthusiast looking for something daring and different, consider getting some body art around the eyes.
Although it’s becoming more popular, getting a tattoo near the eyes is still quite risky. The area is very sensitive and requires special handling – if done incorrectly, the result could be blurred vision and even scarring. That’s why it’s essential to find a qualified professional who knows exactly what they’re doing when working in this area. [1]
Upper Back
Upper back tattoos are a beautiful way to display your art on the body. Whether you choose a delicate, feminine design or something bold and strong, this area of the body provides lots of space for creativity. Plus it’s not as exposed as other parts of the body, so if you’re worried about people seeing your tattoo all the time, this could be a great option for you.
When it comes to upper back tattoos, there are some things to consider. If the design is too large, or if you have a particularly sensitive area of your skin, you may find that getting the tattoo can be quite painful. Make sure you discuss location and size with your artist before committing to the tattoo. [1]
Hamstrings
The hamstrings are a great place to get a tattoo, especially if you’re looking for something large and noticeable. Because it’s usually seen only when you bend over or stretch, it can be discreet if needed. Plus, the curves of the hamstring make for interesting designs that look stylish and cool. [1]
Face
The face is probably one of the most prominent body parts to get a tattoo. It’s bold, and daring, and makes a statement! However, it is important to consider all the factors before getting inked on your face:
- First, think about whether or not you will feel comfortable with this decision for the rest of your life as tattoos on the face are not as easy to hide or remove as others;
- Secondly, do your research and find a tattoo artist with experience in face tattoos who is certified and insured;
- Lastly, make sure the design you choose really reflects your personality and style! [1];
Neck front
The front of your neck is a great spot for a tattoo. It’s easy to cover up with clothing if needed or show off with an open collar. The downside? Neck tattoos can be quite painful, and may take longer to heal due to the delicate nature of the area.
The neck is a small canvas, so you’ll want to keep your design simple and clean. Smaller tattoos with minimal shading work best in this spot. Avoid loud colors, as they will make more of an impression on such a small space. [1]
What Are the Most Popular Areas to Get Tattooed On?
Popular Places for Women
When it comes to deciding where to get a tattoo, the sky is literally the limit. However, there are some areas of the body that are more popular among women than others. Here are some of the most popular spots for female tattoos:
- The wrist and forearm: A delicate and feminine design on the wrist or forearm can be both beautiful and sexy;
- The lower back: Low-back tattoos are a very popular choice for women, especially if it’s a design that cascades down the spine;
- The hip: A discreet flower or symbol on the hip can be quite seductive when paired with the right outfit;
- The ankle and foot: Ankle and foot tattoos are small, but they can carry a lot of meaning. They’re also a great way to add a bit of flare to any outfit [2];
Popular Places for Men
When it comes to deciding where to get a tattoo, men tend to prefer larger, more prominent areas of the body. Here are some of the most popular spots for male tattoos:
- The arm and shoulder: Arm and shoulder tattoos are great for large, bold designs that span multiple sections of the body;
- The chest: Chest tattoos are another popular choice among men, and they can range from small to large in size;
- The upper back: For a design that covers more of the back, an upper back tattoo is perfect. They’re also great for large geometric designs or lettering;
- The leg and calf: Leg and calf tattoos are great for men who want to display their body art in a more subtle way [2];
Best Tattoo Placement App
The best way to choose the perfect tattoo placement for you is with a tattoo placement app. There are many apps on the market today that can help you find the perfect spot for your ink and make sure it looks its best when complete. With an app, you will be able to upload photos of yourself, zoom in and out of specific areas, and move the tattoo placement around to find the perfect spot. Plus, you can save all your designs in the app so you can refer back to them for future visits. [3]
How to Plan Tattoo Placement?
Where the Design Looks Best
When planning a tattoo, one of the main considerations is where on the body it will look best. To get the most out of your design you should consider the size and shape of your body as well as any features, such as curves or lumps, that could affect how your tattoo looks when placed in certain areas. [3]
Your Pain Tolerance
Along with considering the aesthetics of the tattoo, it is important to think about where on your body you can handle the pain of getting the tattoo. Tattoos are no walk in the park and some areas may be more painful than others due to nerve endings or bone is close to the surface of the skin. [3]
Showing Off Your Tattoo
If you are looking for a place to show off your tattoo, consider the neck and wrists. These areas are both visible even when wearing clothing as they can be seen beneath t-shirts, blouses, and dresses. [3]
Seeing Your Tattoo Yourself
When deciding where to get a tattoo, it is important to consider how often you will see it yourself. Placing a tattoo on your back or lower legs means that you may forget all about it as you won’t see it every day. For this reason, places such as the arms, hands, ankles and neck are popular choices. [3]
Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Research the meaning behind certain placements, such as getting a heart tattoo on your wrist to symbolize love;
- Consider the size of your body and any unique features when deciding the best placement for your tattoo;
- Think about how your lifestyle will affect where you get the tattoo, as you may have to cover up with clothing for work;
Don’t:
- Get a tattoo in a place that could be easily damaged, such as your feet or between your fingers;
- Rush into getting the tattoo without doing research into the design and placement;
- Make a decision you will regret as tattoos are permanent and difficult to remove [3];
FAQ
Where is the least painful spot to get a tattoo?
The least painful spots to get a tattoo are typically on the outer parts of the body, such as the upper arms, shoulders and legs. Areas with more fatty tissue tend to be more comfortable when getting inked. For example, the fleshy area between your thumb and index finger is relatively painless.
Where is the best place to get a small tattoo?
Where is the best place for a woman’s tattoo?
Women may want to consider getting tattoos in areas that can easily be covered up or are more discreet, such as the lower back, hips, and shoulders. These areas also tend to be less painful than other parts of the body.
What is the cheapest size tattoo?
The cheapest size tattoo is usually a small one that can be done in one session. Small tattoos are generally less pricey than larger ones since they require fewer materials and take less time to complete. It’s also important to remember that the more detailed a tattoo is, the more expensive it will be.
Where not to get a tattoo?
You should avoid getting tattoos in areas of the body where there are vital organs, such as the stomach, chest, and spine. It’s also important to stay away from sensitive areas like your eyes, face, and neck. Additionally, large tattoos can take multiple sessions to complete, so make sure you choose an area that won’t be too painful or sore in between sessions.
Useful Video: Find The Right Tattoo Size and Placement
Conclusion
Getting a tattoo is an exciting and creative way to express yourself. With so many placement options available, it can be hard to decide the best place on your body for your tattoo. Ultimately, where you choose to get a tattoo is up to you and should reflect what’s most important to you. Remember that tattoos are permanent, so it’s important to do your research and find a skilled artist who can provide you with the best work possible. Above all, enjoy the process of getting a tattoo, and don’t forget to show off your new ink!
We hope this article has given you some ideas about which parts of your body are the best places to get a tattoo. Do you have any tips or advice of your own when it comes to getting inked? Share them with us in the comments below! Happy and safe tattooing!
References:
- https://www.inkme.tattoo/best-places-get-tattoos-body/
- https://authoritytattoo.com/places-to-get-tattoos/
- https://www.savedtattoo.com/tattoo-placement-ideas/