Experiencing the Pain and Joy of Ribcage Tattoos
Experiencing the Pain and Joy of Ribcage Tattoos
When it comes to ink on the human body, many potential tattoo enthusiasts are left questioning the pain and the worth of getting a ribcage tattoo. As someone who has tattoos on virtually every part of their body except the face and legs, I can say with confidence that the process of getting a rib tattoo is altogether different from other forms of body art.
The Experience of Getting a Rib Tattoo
Getting my first rib tattoo was a memorable experience that, despite my high pain tolerance, was a bit more of a challenge than I anticipated. I believed it would be intense, but surprisingly, it ended up being quite painless compared to some other procedures. For example, getting two cartilage piercings in one ear at once was much more uncomfortable than the rib tattoo.
Considering it's just a 2-word tattoo covering about 11 letters, the entire process took around 10 minutes. However, finding the right tattoo artist who is patient and skilled is crucial. For me, talking through the process with the artist was incredibly helpful, as it took my mind off the procedure. On a pain scale of 1 to 10, I rated the tattoo as a 2 to 3, which might feel worse for someone with a lower pain tolerance.
In my personal experience, the rib tattoo felt as though I had an underwire that was scratching me. The sensation was less about the needles and more about the positioning and duration of the procedure.
The Pain Factor
As mentioned in another anecdote, the pain of getting a rib tattoo can vary significantly. Some people have experienced it as mild, while others have found it far more intense. This variation can be attributed to pain tolerance, which is unique to each individual. However, it's important to take other factors into account, such as the placement and length of the tattoo.
For instance, a rib piece can look stunning on both men and women, but the pain can differ based on the location. My sister's rib tattoos, both larger than a hand, were placed on her side and front ribs. The side tattoo resulted in a pain rating of 1-2, while the front tattoo became increasingly painful towards the end of the session, reaching a rating of 8-9.
Therefore, the overall pain you might feel can depend on the specific tattoo and your personal pain tolerance. Despite the potential discomfort, a strong desire for the tattoo can outweigh the temporary pain.
Final Thoughts
Getting a ribcage tattoo is a personal choice, and the pain you might endure is subjective. Whether you have a high or low pain tolerance, there are ways to make the experience more bearable, such as selecting a skilled artist and discussing your expectations and preferences during the consultation. If you're considering a rib tattoo, ensure you fully understand the process and are prepared for the potential discomfort. Remember, the pain is only temporary, and the resulting artwork can be a lifelong source of pride and joy.