For centuries, tattoos have been a form of body art and self-expression. However, a question that occupies the minds of many potential clients is: Are handpoke tattoos truly more painful than their machine-applied counterparts? Let's delve into this controversial topic and dispel some myths.
Myth: Handpoke Tattoos Are More Painful Than Machine Tattoos
Handpoke tattoos, which involve manual needle insertion, have historically gained a reputation for being more painful than tattoos created with an electric tattoo machine. This myth is rooted in the idea that the slower needle insertion rate of the handpoke technique results in longer and more painful sessions.
Reality: Handpoke Tattoos Are Not Necessarily More Painful
The assumption that handpoke tattoos are inherently more painful is not necessarily accurate. While it's true that the needle insertion rate in handpoke technique is slower due to the manual process, experience shows that the pain factor with handpoke tattoos is not necessarily higher than with machine tattoos.
An important factor influencing pain perception is the number of needle insertions per minute. Tattoo machines perform more insertions per minute, leading to stronger stimulation of the skin and potentially being perceived as more painful. On the other hand, each poke in handpoke tattoos is deliberate and follows an individual rhythm, providing a different experience.
Furthermore, the way the skin is stressed during the tattooing process affects the pain level. Machine tattoos can place greater stress on the skin, resulting in a burning sensation during and after the session. Conversely, the skin experiences less stress during handpoke tattoos, as the needle's penetration is gentler. This can lead to less pain and burning on treated skin.
Conclusion: Pain Perception Depends on Various Factors
It's essential to emphasize that the perceived pain of a tattoo depends on several individual factors. These factors include personal pain tolerance, the body area being tattooed, the size and complexity of the design, and the skills of the tattoo artist.
The notion that handpoke tattoos are inherently more painful than machine tattoos is a myth grounded in individual experiences and perceptions. Some individuals find handpoke tattooing less painful, while others prefer the precision and speed of machine tattoos.
From my experience of over 200 handpoke tattoos on my clients, only about 5 of them found handpoke tattoos to be more painful. Interestingly, this aligns with my own perception, which is why I favor handpoke tattoos for particularly sensitive areas.
At the end of the day, the choice between handpoke and machine tattooing should not solely be based on the pain factor, but also on personal preferences, aesthetic inclinations, and the rapport with the tattoo artist. Regardless of the technique chosen, the end result is a unique form of self-expression that showcases individual personality and uniqueness.