The right placement depends on six things — and most people only think about one (looks). Run through every factor before you book.
The six factors that matter
Will you see it every day? Will others? Wrist, hand and forearm are public; ribs, thigh and back are private.
Some industries still treat hands, neck and face as deal-breakers. Know your career path before going visible.
Skin that creases (elbows, knees, knuckles) ages tattoos faster. Designs warp on these zones.
Tight, low-friction skin ages best. Forearms, calves and outer shoulders stay sharp for decades.
Bony, thin-skinned spots hurt more. See our pain guide before committing to ribs or feet.
Hands, feet and elbows heal harder. Lots of touch-ups. Body parts you sit/sleep on can take longer too.
Suggested placements by profile
Easy pain, easy healing, easy visibility — and easy to cover at work.
Bigger canvas, less ageing damage, and room for the artist to do their best work.
Hidden under regular clothing. Yours alone.
Stable skin and clean lines. Avoid hands and knuckles — fine line ages badly there.