Getting A Rib Tattoo: Everything You Need To Know

Currently, thinking about adorning your body with a brand new tattoo? You’re making a great choice to choose your ribs as the place to get one.

Nevertheless, regardless of whether it’s going to be your very first time getting a tattoo or you’re on a mission be cover them from head to toe. It’s important to make sure that you’re preparing beforehand.

Take it from us, choosing where to get a tattoo for your body can be almost as difficult as choosing what design to get!

The rib area is one of the most popular places to get a tattoo and can complement a variety of different designs, however, there are a few factors that you should take into consideration before deciding which one you would like to get.

RELATED: Rib Tattoos: Pain, Aftercare, Healing & Designs

So, if you’re currently on the fence about whether or not to get a rib tattoo, or you’ve already made the decision but would like to do a little more research prior to the big day, this article is for you.

Below, not only are we going to be talking you through the pain and what to expect, but we are also going to be talking you through the aftercare process, too. 

So, without further ado, ready to discover whether or not a rib tattoo is a perfect option for you? Just read on! 

Rib Tattoos – What Are They?

Before we jump any further into this article. We first think that it would be a great idea to talk you through what a rib tattoo actually is. This will help you to determine whether or not getting one is going to be the best option for you. And what type of tattoo you are looking to get.

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In a nutshell, just like the name suggests. A rib tattoo is essentially a type of tattoo that will be located across your rib area. It is either on your left or right side of your body – depending on which side you want your tattoo to be. As well as occasionally extending across to your stomach area or back area.

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Although, this will depend on how big you are planning on your rib tattoo to be.

Thanks to the location on the body, rib tattoos offer plenty of variety when it comes to what type of design you’d like. And is a fantastic area of the body to get tattoo if you want to be able to conceal it as and when necessary.

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Thanks to the fact that your rib tattoo is going to be conceal by your clothing each day. It means that you will have the freedom to choose a tattoo that is entirely personal to you. While also giving you the freedom to decide whether or not you want to flaunt it.

In that statement, choosing to get a tattoo in your rib area means that you will be able to get a daring tattoo that displays your personality or alternatively get a tattoo that holds a lot of sentimental value to you. And you want to keep it private and special to only you and whoever else you would like to share it with.

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So, even though there are a variety of benefits of opting to choose a rib tattoo, you should also consider the potential drawbacks of deciding to get one. This brings us to our next point – read on! 

Why Are Getting Rib Tattoos So Painful?

As we have already mentioned above, no matter whether you’re planning on getting your very first tattoo or getting inked is one of your favorite pastimes, there’s no denying that getting a tattoo can be quite a nerve-wracking experience – especially when it comes to the ribs!

If you have already begun to do a little bit of research into rib tattoos, then we’re sure that you’ll have already come across one main topic: the pain level! Rib tattoos are very painful, so it is important to make sure that you are well aware of this prior to going through with it.

This is mainly because the needle will be on the bone and will cause your nerves to become very sensitive.

Top Tips For Handling Rib Tattoo Pain

• Go to a reputable artist: One of the best ways to ensure you experience minimal pain is by going to a trustworthy, experienced artist that will understand the proper techniques to ensure minimal pain.
• Ask for a numbing cream – Most tattoo artists will have a numbing cream or spray on hand, so if you are not initially offered one, please make sure to ask your artist prior to beginning if they would be able to numb the area for you.
• Take breaks – Don’t be afraid to ask to take breaks during the session if the pain becomes too intense – your tattoo artist will understand! 

RELATED: Will Numbing Creams Affect My New Tattoo?

Top Tips For Caring For Your Rib Tattoo

After you have gotten your rib tattoo, your body will then begin its unique healing process, and that can look different for everybody.

However, one of the most common occurrences during the healing process is scabbing. And it’s important that you allow your body to go through the scabbing process without picking or trying to peel it off. As this will not only delay the healing but could also cause your tattoo to become damaged.

Instead, you should be sure to wear loose clothing. So that it doesn’t become irritated and make sure that you are moisturizing your tattoo at least twice a day. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Pregnancy Or Weight Change Impact A Rib Tattoo?

Yes, there is a chance that pregnancy/ change in your weight could cause your rib tattoo to change its appearance. Keep in mind if you are planning on getting a larger rib tattoo and plan on getting pregnant. Or if you are on a weight loss journey.

Will A Tummy Tuck Impact A Rib Tattoo?

If you are planning on getting a tummy tuck, then this could potentially impact the appearance of your rib tattoo. However, keep in mind that the appearance of a rib tattoo will only likely be affected by a tummy tuck. That is if you have a larger rib tattoo that extends past the rib area.

If you happen to have a relatively small rib tattoo that is situated quite high up. Then you will more than likely find that the appearance of your rib tattoo is not affected. 

How Fast Will A Rib Tattoo Take To Heal?

Even though everyone’s healing process is slightly different, you can expect your tattoo to have healed in around 2 weeks.

Do Rib Tattoos Bruise? 

Yes, there is a chance that your rib tattoo will bruise almost immediately after you have gotten it. However, this isn’t the case for everyone, as everyone is different.

Needless to say, rib tattoos have a much higher chance of bruising. Simply due to the fact that the rib area of the body does not typically tend to hold a lot of fat.