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Body art has many ways to express oneself — yet neck tattoos are the most visible way to do so — and they have a very different effect on people than tattoos on arms, legs, etc. — since they cannot be easily concealed (even with a scarf), and therefore will immediately draw attention in conversations.
Many creative types (artists, musicians) use their neck tattoos as part of their brand; whereas in non-creative fields, it may still create a negative reaction, however there is a shift towards acceptance of visible tattoos within these non-creative fields, particularly in the fashion, design and tech industries.
Neck Tattoo Placement
Front And Back
The back of the neck provides the most cover, allowing for discretion and control in showing off the tattoo. This area is ideal for individuals who would like to have meaningful ink without offending their employer.
The neck is a relatively sensitive area for tattooing — thin skin, little fat, and many nerve endings. Therefore, the level of discomfort depends on the location of the tattoo and the individual’s pain threshold.
The skin on the neck is thin and closest to the bone — particularly around the spine and collarbone. The constant movement of muscles and tendons during swallowing or turning the head creates additional discomfort during tattooing — plus the vibrations created by the tattoo machine can pass through the entire area creating a heightened sensation.
Generally speaking, the front of the neck is the most painful to get tattooed. The skin is very thin and sensitive to pressure and vibration — therefore you can expect a sharp, burning sensation that can radiate to the jaw and/or chest.
Tattooing Sides of The Neck
The sides of the neck are slightly less painful than the front — although still quite uncomfortable. Due to the large number of nerve fibers and blood vessels in the neck, the sensations caused by the needle can spread further than in other areas. Many people report feeling a deep, stinging pain that grows worse throughout the length of the tattoo session.
While still somewhat painful, the back of the neck is typically the easiest to endure. The presence of muscle tissue and slightly thicker skin provide some degree of insulation between the needle and bone — thereby reducing the intensity of the pain. As a result, people typically describe the sensation as a dull ache, rather than a sharp pinch.
To ensure that your new tattoo heals successfully, it is crucial to follow the guidelines for caring for your neck tattoo. The constant movement of the neck, the exposure to the sun, and the friction from clothing all contribute to the difficulty of healing in this area.
Care After 48 Hours
Once the tattoo has been cleaned and wrapped by your artist, you should keep the wrapping on for several hours to prevent bacteria from getting into the open wound. When you remove the wrapping, wash the tattoo gently with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free soap. Pat the tattoo dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Apply a thin layer of tattoo aftercare cream or fragrance-free lotion. Only rewrap the tattoo if you are instructed to do so by your artist. Because the tattoo is still extremely fragile for the first 48 hours after getting it done, it is essential to avoid tight collars or any clothing that could rub against it.
Healing Process Week-to-Week
Week One: At this point, the tattoo may appear red, swollen and warm to the touch. Some light discomfort or itchiness can occur as the skin begins to repair itself. Clean the tattoo regularly and apply fragrance-free lotions to help soothe it — avoid excessive contact with the tattoo.
Week Two: Peeling and scabbing begin. Avoid picking at the scabs or scratching the tattoo — doing so could pull away the tattoo pigment or lead to uneven healing. Follow your regular cleansing routine and continue applying fragrance-free lotions to hydrate the skin.
Week Three-Four: By now the surface of the tattoo should be starting to settle down. The colors may look muted or clouded because the skin is regenerating itself — hang in there, the vibrant colors will return as the deeper layers of skin heal. Continue your skincare routine and be patient.
One Month Post-Ink: By this time the tattoo should be fully healed on the surface, but the deeper layers of the skin are still repairing themselves. To protect the color of the tattoo, continue to moisturize and shield it from UV exposure.
Protecting and Maintaining Your Tattoo in the Long Term
Since the neck is almost always exposed to sunlight, using sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 is essential to protect your tattoo from fading. High-neck clothing, tight scarves and jewelry that rubs on the tattoo continuously can cause irritation and fading over time. Consider having your tattoo touched-up professionally periodically to maintain the clarity of lines and the vibrancy of color. Properly maintained, a neck tattoo can remain looking great for years.
Making an Informed Choice About a Neck Tattoo
When deciding whether or not to get a neck tattoo, the decision is not simply based on aesthetics. Choosing to get a tattoo on your neck involves serious consideration of your career goals and personal preferences.
Finding the Right Artist and Studio
Getting a tattoo on the neck requires accuracy. Since the neck has curves and contours, small mistakes will be apparent. Find an artist with experience with prominent placements and good understanding of coloring and shade retention on thinner skin.
Research the cleanliness of the studio and equipment prior to booking a tattoo appointment. The neck’s sensitivity to irritation and infection means that you need to be sure that the artist and the equipment used are sterile.
Considering How Your Tattoo May Impact Your Career
Visible tattoos may be seen as unprofessional in certain industries. Take into account how your tattoo may affect your clients, advancement opportunities, or potential employers.
If you are working in a conservative industry, but value expressing yourself creatively, consider smaller or more easily concealable designs. On the other hand, if you are working in a creative role or as an entrepreneur, the visual aspect of your tattoo may have a negligible or positive impact on others.
Frequently Asked Questions and Debunking Popular Myths
Will Getting a Neck Tattoo Hurt My Chances of Being Hired?
Yes and No. It all depends on the type of industry you’re in, the company culture and country. Visible tattoos may still be frowned upon in corporate settings such as finance or law. However, in creative, tech and entertainment fields, visible tattoos are being increasingly accepted or even celebrated as a form of personal branding.
Corporate norms are changing, with young adults placing more emphasis on skills and personality over appearance. That being said, consider your long term options carefully before opting for a highly visible design.
How Long Will it Take for My Neck Tattoo to Heal Completely?
It will take approximately 2-3 weeks for the surface of your neck tattoo to heal. Full recovery of the skin may take anywhere from 6-8 weeks. The skin on the neck is constantly moving — which causes micro-tearing, and thus slows down the healing process compared to other parts of the body. Protect your neck tattoo from the sun and keep it clean and moisturized during the healing process.
Can I Shave or Exfoliate Around My Neck Tattoo?
You should wait at least three weeks before shaving in the area surrounding your tattoo. Use a clean razor and shave with caution. You should not exfoliate or scrub around your tattoo until it is fully healed. Scratching or rubbing the tattoo with exfoliating products can dislodge the pigment.
Is the Pain Worth it?
For many people, yes. A neck tattoo is a powerful statement of identity and perseverance. While the process of getting a tattoo on the neck is intense, the end result is a unique and personal expression that can evoke emotions and feelings that are difficult to find elsewhere. If you are prepared and have chosen a reputable and experienced artist, you will be able to enjoy your new tattoo.
Conclusion
A neck tattoo combines symbolic expression with extreme visibility. It is a significant commitment that influences how you are perceived professionally and personally, and how you perceive yourself. Regardless of the challenges associated with getting a tattoo on the neck (such as pain and healing), it is one of the most effective ways to express oneself through a tattoo.
Before committing to a neck tattoo, research thoroughly, choose a qualified artist and plan accordingly. If cared for and designed correctly, a neck tattoo can serve as a representation of your confidence, creativity and strength for years to come.
