As tattoos have become more commonplace, many people have chosen to adorn their fingers and hands with ink as a form of self-expression and to showcase their tattoo artist’s work. However, there is a reputation associated with hand and finger tattoos, as they are often referred to as “job stoppers.”
But as tattoos continue to grow in popularity and acceptance, are hand and finger tattoos still considered to be “job stoppers” in modern times?

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Reevaluating the Stigma: Modern Attitudes Towards Hand and Finger Tattoos
In the past, having hand and finger tattoos could significantly hurt your chances of landing a job. Employers were quick to reject job applicants who had tattoos in these areas.
In recent times, attitudes towards hand and finger tattoos have become more relaxed, especially in creative industries.

As more companies modernize and become more open-minded, hand and finger tattoos are no longer seen as a dealbreaker. Whether you can have them and still get hired will depend on the particular company you are interested in, as well as their policies on tattoos. But generally, having hand and finger tattoos is becoming increasingly acceptable in the professional world.
– From Celebrities to the Mainstream
It is no secret that hand and finger tattoos have become increasingly popular, especially as more celebrities flaunt them. This trend has helped increase the acceptance of hand and finger tattoos in society, but there are still some who are not entirely on board.
Why “Job Stoppers”?
In the past, hand and finger tattoos were often referred to as “job stoppers” because they could prevent qualified individuals from getting hired due to the visibility of their tattoos.
However, as stated above, attitudes towards hand tattoos have shifted, and they are now more commonly seen in professional settings.
While workplace stigma surrounding tattoos has generally decreased, there are still some conservative sectors, such as the financial industry, that maintain strict standards when it comes to tattoos.

Are Hand and Finger Tattoos Against the Law?
While getting a hand or finger tattoo is not illegal in the US, some tattoo artists may have shop policies against doing tattoos in highly visible areas. This is because hand and face tattoos, in particular, may hinder an individual’s career prospects. See our article on legal status of tattooing in the US for more details.
As a result, some tattoo artists may refuse to tattoo a client’s hands or face. For others, the decision to refuse these types of tattoos may come down to concerns about the quality of the work.
Because tattoos on hands and fingers tend to fade poorly and become blurry over time, some artists prefer to avoid these areas altogether to protect their reputation and the customer’s satisfaction.
In short, while hand and finger tattoos are not illegal, some tattoo artists may decline to do them due to their shop policies or concerns about the quality of the finished tattoo.

Key Considerations Before Inking Your Hands
While hand and finger tattoos may seem like a great idea, they may not be the most practical choice if you want your tattoos to last a long time.
– Long-Lasting Tattoo Quality
Hand and finger tattoos are exposed to water and sunlight frequently, and the skin in these areas regenerates quickly, which causes tattoos to fade quickly.
– More Prone to Wear and Tear
Hand and finger tattoos are at a higher risk of blowouts and blurred ink, which can ruin the overall look of the tattoo. Since hands are used daily, the constant movement and wear can also affect the quality and appearance of the tattoo.

It’s important to weigh both the pros and cons before getting inked in these areas, so you can make an informed decision.
Now, don’t get us wrong – we love all kinds of tattoos, and some of us even have hand and finger tattoos!
Five Tips for Proper Aftercare of Hand and Finger Tattoos
#1 Aftercare is Essential
When it comes to getting a finger tattoo, proper aftercare is essential for optimal results. While it’s impossible to guarantee how evenly your tattoo will heal, there are several things you can do to help it along.
For a detailed step-by-step guide to properly heal your tattoo, check our tattoo aftercare instructions.
#2 Extra Protection During Healing
Remember that your hands are constantly exposed to friction and other forms of wear and tear, which can have a negative impact on the tattoo’s appearance and longevity. With a little extra care, however, you can help your finger tattoo last as long as possible.
#3 Avoid Exposure to Sunlight (When Possible)
Also, since hand and finger tattoos are more exposed to the sun, using SPF protection is crucial to prevent fading.
#4 Moisturizing is Key
Moisturizing is another important aspect of aftercare. Your hands and fingers are frequently washed, which can dry out the skin and damage the tattoo. To keep the skin moisturized and prevent over-exfoliation, use a gentle, unscented moisturizer.
Find more info on this topic on “How often should I moisturize my tattoo?“.
#5 Palm Tattoos: Think Twice
Finally, think carefully before getting a tattoo on the palm side of your hand. This area tends to heal inconsistently and doesn’t saturate pigment well, which can result in a less vibrant tattoo that doesn’t last as long.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your hand and finger tattoos look their best for years to come.

The Truth About Pain and Hand/Finger Tattoos
Getting a hand or finger tattoo can be a painful experience, and there are several reasons for this.
Fingers and hands have less fat and muscle density than other parts of the body, which means that the needle of the tattoo machine is in close contact with the bones and knuckles of your fingers.
This lack of cushioning makes the experience more uncomfortable.
Additionally, hands and fingers have more nerve endings, which can make the pain more intense than in other body parts. This is why hand and finger tattoos are often regarded as some of the most painful types of tattoos to get.
While the level of pain varies from person to person, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of discomfort when getting a hand or finger tattoo.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when considering hand and finger tattoos:
Hand and finger tattoos have become more popular in recent years, thanks in part to celebrity endorsements and a broader acceptance of tattoos in general.
Before getting a hand or finger tattoo, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. While these tattoos can look great, their placement can impact the overall aesthetic and lead to disappointment. Choosing an experienced tattoo artist with a portfolio of healed hand and finger tattoos is the best way to ensure that your tattoo will look fresh and vibrant for a long time.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your hand and finger tattoos look great and make a lasting impression.
FAQ
Do finger tattoos hurt more than hand?
Yes, finger tattoos tend to hurt more than hand tattoos because the skin is thin and there’s less cushioning over the bones. However, the amount of pain can vary from person to person depending on factors such as pain tolerance, age, gender, and health.
What is the best finger for a tattoo?
The best finger for a tattoo depends on personal preference and the design. The ring, middle, and index fingers are popular choices, but the pinky finger is small and can limit the size and detail of the tattoo. It’s important to consider visibility and potential fading when choosing a finger, and to consult with a tattoo artist for advice.
Do finger tattoos age well?
Finger tattoos may not age well compared to tattoos on other parts of the body. This is because the skin is thin, the area is constantly moving, and the hands are often exposed to sunlight, which can cause the ink to fade or blur more quickly.
Related articles:

Tattoo Blowout: What Is It and What You Can Do About It

Can You Prevent Tattoo Scarring? What You Need to Know

Tattoo on Sternum: Pain, Preparation & Aftercare

What is a Flash Tattoo? All You Need to Know

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