tattoos

[UKGurl]

Hiya!

Well I'm finally allowed to get a tattoo, so I decided I want one on my lower spine! I wants ARSENAL (UK Football team) on my spine and YES I am very sure I want it.

So will it hurt? is there anything I can ask for to make it less painful? I'm absolutely scared of needles but want it doing!

LJ

[woofgang]

UKgurl, please read the post below yours!! do you STILL want to do it???

[UKGurl]

Yeah I'm a 100% sure, besides even if I did decide in the future I didn't like the tattoo (wich will not happen because I have loved Arsenal since I was a born) I'd forget it was there,

That doesn't happen to answer my question there if it would hurt or if there is anything I can ask for to make the pain less painful

[Mr.Ix]

There isn't alot you can do to avoid the pain I'm afraid. Its not that bad anyway. Think of scratching your fingernail over a part of your body that is really sunburt. Just make sure the Tattooist is not a Spurs Fan, or you may just end up with the NAL missing ;)

[WaldoMcFroog]

Mr Ix is quite right. It's not like someone sticking a needle in you, it's exactly like being scratched. It's a little uncomfortable for sure, and over the spine does hurt more than a lot of other places - mainly because it's bony. However, you can always ask the tattooist for a rest, if you need one.

If you're worried, ask the artist whether you could get the outline done and then decide together if you want to get it filled in then or come back for another session. If the tattooist is a good one, they will have no problem with this. You'll have to negotiate on price, naturally.

You can always take a paracetamol beforehand - that may stop some pain. When I had mine done, I was told the only people who ever pass out are blokes. They get it into their heads they have to be hard and not feel the pain. Because they're so hyped up, as soon as the needle touches the skin, their system floods with adrenaline and they pass out!

Have a good long chat with the tattooist before you start and tell them about your concerns - they will have heard it before and will know how to allay your fears. Finally, only go ahead when you are comfortable to do so - you're the one in charge here.

Enjoy it!

[Octavius]

A tattoo machine is designed to place tiny drops of ink into the second layer of skin, called the dermal layer, about 1/8 of an inch deep.

The needle moves up and down at a rate of about 50 to 3,000 times a minute, puncturing the skin to deposit the ink.  The montion is similar to a sewing machine, and the needle is dipped in ink each time it moves up.  Go into the tattoo studio, watch the tattoo artist work and see if he or she is using safe and sterile procedures and products.  Make sure all needles used for your tattoo are opened from their packaging in front of you.

Bleeding, pain and some discomfort are to be expected. The intensity of pain from a tattoo depends upon the location and size. If not properly cared for during the first two weeks the area has the potential for infection and scarring.

As said above it is a scratching sensation but some people do pass out.  It�s against the law for them to give you an anaesthetic injection. They can use creams, wipes or sprays to numb the area, but this is not often offered.

[admarlow]

when my girlfriend was younger she wanted exactly the same tattoo, she is now SO glad she didnt, p.s she still supports them though

[Zen]

QPR would be less painful !!

[justineo]

Hi UKGurl, agree with the above, but would add that if you feel unsure, have a small tattoo first, and see what you think.

[nicola_red]

If you've thought about it carefully UKG then I say go for it - but there will be pain!  Make sure not to drink alcohol for 24hrs beforehand as that may make you bleed more, have a sugary drink and snack just before the tat and maybe a painkiller as well.  And make sure you follow the aftercare advice carefully and don't scratch!!

[Lore]

I have a tattoo at the top of my spine, It didn't hurt at all but we all have a different pain threshold.

As mentioned in other posts you must follow the aftercare procedure to the letter!

good luck :)

[UKGurl]

would a tattoo hurt less at the top of your arm???

I want an Arsenal tattoo, i was gunner get one on my spine howeve I fear that will hurt a little TOO much, so I thought of a smaller tattoo like the above poster said.

Also should I use 'Elma cream' to numb any areas??

UKG