Why Do Some Tattoo Artists Hurt More Than Others

Why Do Some Tattoo Artists Hurt More Than Others

If you have ever been tattooed by more than one artist, you may have noticed that the pain can feel very different from one session to another. Even when the tattoos are on similar parts of the body, some artists seem to cause more discomfort than others. This is not simply down to your imagination. Several factors, including technique, equipment and experience, influence how a tattoo feels. Understanding why this happens can help you make better choices when selecting your artist and prepare for your session with realistic expectations.

Technique and Needle Pressure

Every tattoo artist develops their own style and technique, and this has a direct effect on how painful the process feels. Some artists use a lighter hand, letting the machine and needle do most of the work, which tends to cause less discomfort. Others apply more pressure, which can make the sensation sharper or more intense. Both approaches can create high quality tattoos, but the difference in touch is often noticeable to clients. A heavy handed technique is not always bad, but it can make the process feel rougher.

Machine Setup and Equipment

Tattoo machines can be adjusted in many ways, including needle depth, speed and voltage. These settings influence how the needle enters the skin and how much vibration you feel. A machine set to run too fast or too deep may feel harsher than one that is adjusted more carefully. The choice of needles also plays a part. Single needles for fine line work often feel sharper, while larger groupings used for shading or colour can feel more like a dull scratching. Experienced artists usually know how to fine tune their machines for efficiency and comfort, which helps reduce unnecessary pain.

Experience and Skill

An artist’s level of experience has a big impact on client comfort. Skilled artists who have worked with many different skin types tend to tattoo with more precision and confidence, which often feels smoother. Less experienced artists may hesitate, go over the same area multiple times or struggle with consistency, all of which can increase discomfort. Choosing an artist with a strong portfolio and good client reviews usually means a more comfortable tattoo experience, even if the placement is naturally sensitive.

Style of Tattooing

The type of tattoo you choose also influences how painful it feels. Bold traditional designs with heavy line work may require slower, firmer passes that feel more intense. In contrast, soft black and grey shading can be quicker and less uncomfortable. Colour tattoos often require multiple passes to pack in pigment, which can feel rougher regardless of the artist. While style is a personal choice, it is useful to know that certain approaches are naturally more demanding on the skin.

Your Own Perception of Pain

Finally, it is worth remembering that the client plays a role too. Pain perception is subjective, and factors such as your mood, stress levels, hydration and whether you have eaten before the session all influence how you feel. An artist who seemed painful one day might feel less so on another occasion simply because you were better prepared. Still, the consistency of an artist’s technique usually means that if you find them heavy handed once, you are likely to notice it again.

Final Thoughts

Some tattoo artists hurt more than others because of their technique, equipment, experience and the style of tattooing they specialise in. While pain is unavoidable in tattooing, choosing an experienced artist with a lighter hand and good technical knowledge can make a significant difference. Ultimately, finding an artist who balances skill with client comfort ensures not only a better experience but also a better healed tattoo.