Broken heart tattoos are becoming increasingly popular, but what do they symbolize? Whether you've gone through a difficult breakup or experienced heartache in some other form, broken heart tattoos are a powerful way to convey your emotions. In this article, we'll explore the meaning behind these tattoos and provide some ideas for your next ink.
Are you only interested in tattoo designs and want to skip the educational part?
No problem, we got you covered! Click HERE to get inspired.
What does the Broken Heart Symbolize?
In different cultures, religions, and traditions worldwide, the broken heart has different meanings. For example, in Christianity, the broken heart represents repentance and humility. In Hinduism, the broken heart signifies the longing for the divine. In Greek mythology, the broken heart symbolizes the end of a romantic relationship.
What is the Meaning Behind a Broken Heart Tattoo?
A broken heart tattoo can represent a range of emotions, including heartbreak, grief, loss, and sadness. The tattoo can also be a way to commemorate a lost loved one or serve as a reminder of a past relationship. It can also signify the strength and resilience of the person who has overcome heartache and moved on.
Top Rated List of Ideas and Their Meanings of Broken Heart Tattoos
Heart with a crack tattoo: This design represents a broken heart and the emotional pain that comes with it. It can also symbolize the idea that a broken heart can mend over time.
Heart with Band-Aids tattoo: This design represents the healing process after heartache. It can also symbolize self-love and the importance of taking care of oneself.
Heart with wings tattoo: This design represents the idea of freedom and moving on from a broken heart. It can also symbolize the hope of finding love again.
Heart with a lock tattoo: This design represents the idea that the heart is guarded and protected from further heartache. It can also symbolize the idea of finding the right person who can unlock the heart.
Heart with a dagger tattoo: This design represents the pain of heartbreak and the idea that love can be dangerous. It can also symbolize the strength and resilience of the person who has overcome heartache.
Who Should Get a Broken Heart Tattoo?
Anyone who has experienced heartbreak or loss can consider a broken heart tattoo. It's a way to honor your emotions and serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience it took to move on.
History and Origin of Broken Heart Tattoos
The origin of broken heart tattoos is unclear, but they have become increasingly popular in recent years. The trend may have started with the heart with a crack design, which has been around for decades. The design has since evolved to include various symbols and styles, such as a heart with wings and a heart with a dagger.
General Breakdown Of Tattoo Pain Levels On Different Body Parts
Here is a breakdown of the different tattoo pain levels:
- Low: This level of pain is generally described as a mild discomfort or tickling sensation. It is similar to the sensation of getting a light scratch or scrape.
- Moderate: This level of pain is generally described as a moderate discomfort or aching sensation. It is similar to the sensation of getting a deep scratch or scrape or being pinched.
- High: This level of pain is generally described as a strong discomfort or throbbing sensation. It is similar to the sensation of getting a burn or being stung by a bee.
It's important to note that pain tolerance is highly individual and can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may find certain body parts more or less painful than others, and the same body part can be more or less painful for different people. Additionally, the level of pain can be affected by factors such as the size and location of the tattoo, the skill of the tattoo artist, and the individual's own pain threshold.
Tattoo placement pain level chart
Body Part | Pain Level | Explanation |
Forehead | Low | The forehead has few nerve endings, so it is not a particularly painful area. |
Eyebrows | Low | The eyebrows have few nerve endings, so the pain level is relatively low. |
Ear | Low | The ear is a relatively thin and fleshy area, so the pain level is low. |
Nostril | Low | The nostril is a small area with thin skin, so the pain level is low. |
Lip | Low to Moderate | The lip has more nerve endings than some other areas, so it may be slightly more painful. |
Cheek | Low to Moderate | The cheek has a moderate amount of nerve endings, so it may be slightly more painful. |
Moderate | The neck has a moderate amount of nerve endings, so it may be slightly more painful. | |
Moderate to High | The chest has a high concentration of nerve endings, so it can be quite painful. | |
Abdomen | High | The abdomen has a high concentration of nerve endings, so it can be quite painful. |
Back | High | The back has a high concentration of nerve endings, so it can be quite painful. |
Shoulders | High | The shoulders have a high concentration of nerve endings, so they can be quite painful. |
Upper Arms | Moderate to High | The upper arms have a moderate to high concentration of nerve endings, so they can be somewhat painful. |
Elbows | High | The elbows have a high concentration of nerve endings, so they can be quite painful. |
Forearms | Moderate | The forearms have a moderate concentration of nerve endings, so they are not as painful as some other areas. |
Hands | High | The hands have a high concentration of nerve endings, so they can be quite painful. |
Lower Arms | Low to Moderate | The lower arms have a lower concentration of nerve endings, so they are not as painful as some other areas. |
Wrists | Low | The wrists have a low concentration of nerve endings, so they are not very painful. |
Lower Back | High | The lower back has a high concentration of nerve endings, so it can be quite painful. |
Buttocks | High | The buttocks have a high concentration of nerve endings, so they can be quite painful. |
Thighs | High | The thighs have a high concentration of nerve endings, so they can be quite painful. |
Knees | High | The knees have a high concentration of nerve endings, so they can be quite painful. |
Calves | Low to Moderate | The calves have a low to moderate concentration of nerve endings, so they are not as painful as some other areas. |
Ankles | Low | The ankles have a low concentration of nerve endings, so they are not very painful. |
Tattoo aftercare tips
Before getting a tattoo:
Choose a reputable tattoo artist and parlor. Research the artist's portfolio and read reviews from previous clients.
Consult with the artist about the design and placement of the tattoo.
Make sure you are in good health. If you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications that may affect your ability to heal, be sure to let your tattoo artist know.
Consider using a numbing cream to reduce pain during the tattooing process. These creams contain a numbing agent (such as lidocaine) that can be applied to the skin before the tattoo is done. It's important to follow the instructions on the numbing cream and to only use it as directed.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and other substances that can thin your blood for at least 24 hours before getting a tattoo.
Eat a healthy meal before your tattoo session to ensure that your blood sugar is stable.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tattooed.
After getting a tattoo:
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your tattoo artist. These may include:
Keeping the tattoo clean and covered with a bandage for the first few hours after getting tattooed.
Washing the tattoo with lukewarm water and a mild soap (such as unscented, antimicrobial soap) and patting it dry with a clean towel.
Applying a thin layer of tattoo ointment or lotion (such as A&D or Aquaphor) to the tattoo and covering it with a clean bandage or wrap.
Repeating this process for the first few days, or until the tattoo has fully scabbed over.
Avoid soaking the tattoo in water for the first week, such as in a bath or pool.
Avoid picking or scratching at the scabs, as this can cause the tattoo to fade or become infected.
Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or tanning beds for at least 2-4 weeks.
If you experience any redness, swelling, or unusual discharge, contact your tattoo artist or a healthcare professional.
Overall, it's important to keep your tattoo clean and moisturized during the healing process to ensure that it heals properly and looks its best. Using a numbing cream can help reduce pain during the tattooing process, but it's important to use it as directed and to follow all aftercare instructions to ensure that your tattoo heals properly.
People Also Ask:
What is the cost of a broken heart tattoo?
The cost of a broken heart tattoo varies depending on the size, location, and complexity of the design. It's best to consult with a tattoo artist for an accurate price estimate.
Is a broken heart tattoo painful?
Tattoos can be painful, but the level of pain varies depending on the individual's pain tolerance and the location of the tattoo. A broken heart tattoo on a sensitive area like the ribcage or collarbone may be more painful.
Can I cover up an existing tattoo with a broken heart design?
Yes, it's possible to cover up an existing tattoo with a broken heart design. A skilled tattoo artist can help you design a new tattoo that incorporates the existing one.
What are some alternative symbols for heartbreak?
Other symbols for heartbreak include a wilted flower, a broken arrow, or a teardrop.
Is a broken heart tattoo a good idea for a couple's tattoo?
A broken heart tattoo is not recommended for a couple's tattoo as it represents heartbreak and loss, which are not positive emotions to associate with a romantic relationship. Instead, couples can consider other tattoo designs that symbolize their love and commitment to each other.
Watch A video of a broken heart tattoo done by a pro
180+ broken heart tattoo Ideas to get inspired from
Final thoughts
Broken heart tattoos are a powerful way to express emotions and serve as a reminder of strength and resilience. Whether you've gone through heartbreak or loss, or you want to commemorate a lost loved one, a broken heart tattoo can be a meaningful way to honor your emotions. If you're still undecided about getting a broken heart tattoo, consider exploring other tattoo designs that resonate with you. Remember to consult with a professional tattoo artist to ensure you get the best possible result.