Everybody feels a tattoo differently, so no chart is exact. What you can know is which places tend to hurt more, what changes the feeling, and that a small tattoo is over quickly. A small walk-in piece takes 15–20 minutes.
What changes how much it hurts
- The place. Skin over bone, or thin skin, usually feels sharper than a padded area.
- How you feel that day. Tired, hungry or hung over makes everything harder.
- Nerves. First-timers often feel more because they are tense. Once the first minute has passed, many people relax.
- How long it takes. The bigger the piece, the longer you are in the chair.
A general guide by placement
This is a general guide, not a measurement.
| Placement | What people usually say |
|---|---|
| Outer upper arm, outer thigh, calf | Usually easier: more padding |
| Forearm, shoulder | Medium |
| Ribs, spine, collarbone | Usually sharper, with thin skin over bone |
| Ankle, inner wrist | Usually sharper, with thin skin over bone |
We don’t tattoo hands, feet, elbows or knees for another reason: those places age badly. If your idea is for one of them, tell us and we suggest another placement. There is a short explanation in fine line tattoos: how they heal and age.
How to get ready
The preparation we ask for is simple.
- Sleep well the night before.
- Eat before you come.
- Skip alcohol the day before.
- Wear clothes that leave the placement easy to reach.
- Bring a photo ID. You must be 18 or older.
We talk through the design, size and placement with you before we start, and there is no rush. You get breaks whenever you need them. For a small piece, a short break is usually plenty.
During the session
The artist cleans the skin, places the stencil and checks it with you in the mirror before starting. Then the tattoo itself takes from 15–20 minutes for a small walk-in piece to a full session for a large one. Tell the artist if you need to stop.
After the session
Redness and itching are normal while it heals. Keep it clean and moisturised, as in our aftercare guide. If you have pus, strong itching or pain, see a doctor.
Questions people ask
Does a small tattoo hurt less?
It lasts less time, which makes it easier to get through. How sharp it feels depends mostly on the placement.
Do I need anything for the pain?
We don’t offer anything beyond what is written here. Eat before you come, sleep well and skip alcohol. If you take medication or have a health condition, tell us before we start.
What if I can’t take it?
Tell us. We stop, you have a break, and we continue when you are ready.
Is a piercing more painful than a tattoo?
A piercing takes about five minutes. Read piercing in Málaga for what to expect.