The Tattoo Pain Scale in Australia: What Hurts, What Doesn’t & How to Actually Survive It

So, you’ve finally booked that tattoo. You’ve got your design, your artist, and your appointment. But now comes the real question—how bad is this going to hurt? The answer? It totally depends on where you’re getting it. Welcome to the wild ride that is the Tattoo Pain Scale—and don’t worry, we’ve got a secret weapon to help you through it: Numbastay tattoo numbing cream, made right here in Australia.

Tattoo Pain 101: Why Some Spots Feel Like a Breeze, and Others Like a Buzzsaw

Not all pain is created equal. Tattoo needles create thousands of micro-punctures in your skin, and depending on the area, that can feel anywhere from mildly annoying to I-need-a-moment. Your body has more nerve endings in some places, less fat in others, and that combo makes a big difference.

Let’s break it down.

High-Pain Zones (AKA the Danger Zone)

These are the places where you might seriously consider tapping out—or at least rethinking your life choices.

💀 Ribs & Sternum – The ultimate test of tattoo toughness. Every breath feels like it’s echoing the vibration of the machine.

💀 Shins & Ankles – No cushion, just bone. Feels like tattooing a skeleton.

💀 Spine & Neck – Super sensitive, with nerves that light up like a Christmas tree.

💀 Armpits – Just… don’t. Unless you're into full-blown pain Olympics.

Moderate Pain Areas

Not exactly chill, but manageable with some grit—and a little help from Australia’s favourite tattoo numbing cream.

Inner Arm – Soft skin and nerve-rich. You’ll feel it.

Wrists & Hands – Thin skin plus constant movement = spicy.

Knees & Elbows – All bone, no mercy. Feels weird and intense.

 

Low-Pain Sweet Spots

If you're new to tattoos or just not into suffering, start here.

Outer Arm & Shoulder – Good muscle coverage, low sensitivity. Perfect starter zone.

Thigh (Outer) – Flat, fleshy, and forgiving.

Calves & Butt – Soft, muscular areas that make for smoother sessions.

How to Survive the Tattoo Pain (Without Crying in Public)

You don’t have to suffer through every second of your tattoo. Here’s how to keep your cool—and your dignity.

✔️ 1. Apply a Tattoo Numbing Cream (We’re Biased, but Numbastay is the One)

Numbastay is made for Aussie skin, climate, and regulations. It kicks in fast, lasts for hours, and helps dull pain in even the most brutal spots. Artists love that it doesn’t mess with the ink, and clients love how much easier it makes the whole experience.

Whether you’re tackling your ribs, spine, or just nervous about your first piece—tattoo numbing cream in Australia doesn’t get better than Numbastay.

✔️ 2. Eat & Hydrate Before Your Appointment

Your body can’t handle pain well if you’re running on empty. A good meal and plenty of water can make a huge difference.

✔️ 3. Skip the Coffee & Booze

Caffeine and alcohol thin your blood, which makes you bleed more—and that’s not fun for you or your artist.

✔️ 4. Breathe, Move, Distract

Tension makes the pain worse. Bring headphones, focus on your breathing, or have a mate come along to chat and take your mind off the needle.

✔️ 5. Know That It’s Temporary

Tattoos are forever, but the pain isn’t. You’ll walk out with something beautiful—and the sting will be long gone by the time you’re showing it off.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Handle It (Especially With Numbastay)

Tattoo pain is real, but it’s also totally manageable—especially when you prep properly. And if you’re in Australia, you’ve got access to one of the best tricks in the game: Numbastay tattoo numbing cream.

No matter where you’re getting inked—spine, sternum, or shin—Numbastay’s here to help you power through the pain and enjoy the process.

Because tattoos should be memorable for the art, not the agony.