So you and your bestie are thinking about getting matching best friend tattoos? That's awesome! Seriously, nothing screams "we're bonded for life" like permanently etching something meaningful onto your skin together. But hold up. Before you rush into that tattoo parlor buzzing with excitement (and maybe a little nervousness), let's talk. Like, really talk.
I've seen the good, the bad, and the seriously "what were they thinking?" outcomes. I even got a matching tattoo years ago with someone I thought would be my ride-or-die forever. Spoiler: We drifted. Big time. Seeing that tattoo now? It's... complicated. Not regret, exactly, but a reminder of how things change. That's the thing nobody tells you loud enough: friendships evolve, sometimes painfully. Is that tattoo gonna feel like a warm hug or a weird scar down the line? Worth pondering.
Why Matching Best Friend Tattoos Feel So Damn Good (And Why You Might Hesitate)
The pull is strong, right? It's not just about looking cool (though, hey, that's a perk). Getting matching best friend tattoos is this intense, shared experience. You're literally sitting through the buzz and sting together, solidifying your bond in the most permanent way possible. It symbolizes trust, shared history, inside jokes only you two get – all that juicy stuff. It feels like claiming your friendship in a unique, visible way that a BFF necklace just can't touch.
But then the doubts creep in. What if we grow apart? What if the design we love now looks ridiculous in 10 years? Is it gonna hurt way more than I think? And honestly... what will people say? Will they get it? These worries are totally normal. Anyone considering matching tattoos who *isn't* a little apprehensive probably hasn't thought it through enough.
The Good Stuff
- Forever Symbol: A constant, physical reminder of your unique connection.
- Shared Adventure: The whole process – researching, choosing, getting inked – becomes a core memory you made together.
- Meaning Over Matter: Focuses on the significance of your bond, not just the aesthetics.
- Conversation Starter: Be prepared to tell the story behind your matching best friend tattoos... a lot!
- Commitment: Shows a deep level of trust and mutual dedication (way deeper than just saying it).
The Tricky Bits
- Permanence is Real: Removing tattoos is expensive, painful, and often imperfect. This is forever.
- Friendships Change: People drift apart, have falling-outs, life happens. That tattoo remains.
- Design Doubts: Tastes evolve. Will you both still love that quirky inside joke symbol in 20 years?
- Pain & Placement: Some spots hurt way more than others, and sensitivity varies between people.
- Social Perception: Not everyone understands or approves of tattoos, let alone matching ones.
Brainstorming Matching Best Friend Tattoo Ideas That Won't Make You Cringe Later
Okay, let's get creative. You want something unique that screams "us," but also has lasting power. Skip the trendy hashtags or meme references unless you're absolutely positive they're timeless for *both* of you. Think deeper.
Meaningful Themes to Explore
Where does your friendship magic come from? Grab a coffee together and dig into these:
- Shared Passions: Love hiking? Mountain outlines. Obsessed with astronomy? Constellations visible on the night you met.
- Symbolic Objects: A broken charm each of you holds half of? Puzzle pieces that fit together? Keys and locks?
- Complementary Designs: Sun and moon. Yin and yang. Land and sea. Something that stands alone but makes perfect sense together.
- Minimalist Magic: Tiny, identical symbols in a discreet spot (behind the ear, inner wrist, ankle) – super popular for good reason.
- Quotes & Script: A shared motto, a lyric from "your song," a single meaningful word in a beautiful font. Keep it short and powerful.
- Representational Art: Stylized versions of your favorite shared flower, animal, or landmark significant to your friendship.
Choosing the Right Vibe: Style Matters
| Style | Best For... | Longevity Factor | Pain Level (Generally) | Cost Estimate (per person, small/med size) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Line / Minimalist | Discreet symbols, initials, tiny designs | High (simple designs age well) | Low-Moderate | $80 - $200+ |
| Traditional (American/Old School) | Bold symbols (anchors, hearts, daggers), classic look | High (bold lines hold up) | Moderate | $150 - $350+ |
| Watercolor | Soft, artistic, blended colors | Medium (colors may fade/blur more) | Moderate (color packing) | $200 - $500+ |
| Geometric | Patterns, mandalas, abstract shapes | High (clean lines last) | Varies by detail/location | $150 - $400+ |
| Realism | Portraits (pets!), detailed objects | High (if done by expert artist) | Moderate-High (detail work) | $300 - $1000+ |
Don't just pick a style because it's pretty now. Think about how it ages. Those super intricate micro-tattoos? They often blur into indistinct blobs later. Bold lines and simpler designs generally hold up better over decades. Ask your artist about longevity for your specific idea and placement.
Location, Location, Location: Where to Put Your Matching Ink
This isn't just about aesthetics. Pain tolerance, visibility for work, and how the design flows with your body matter massively.
- Popular Spots & The Real Deal:
- Wrists (Inner/Outer): Visible, meaningful (pulse point). Hurts more than you think (thin skin, bone). Great for small symbols.
- Ankles: Subtle, easy to hide. Can be tender (bony). Watch out for shoe friction during healing.
- Behind the Ear: Super discreet, cool factor. Pain varies, but it's quick work usually. Can be tricky for detailed designs.
- Forearm (Inner/Outer): Great canvas for slightly larger pieces. Moderate pain for most. More visible for work.
- Shoulder Blade: Larger space, easy to cover. Generally less painful (fleshy area). Hard to see yourself!
- Ribs: Major cool points... but notoriously PAINFUL. Seriously intense. Only for the truly committed. Healing can be annoying (bras, waistbands).
- Fingers/Side of Hand: Super trendy, highly visible. Fades VERY quickly (constant wear), hurts a lot, and can be a job-stopper. Think carefully.
My personal take? Think about your daily life. That super visible forearm tattoo might feel empowering now, but will it clash with your corporate job dress code? Can you easily cover it if needed? Be honest with yourselves.
Finding Your Tattoo Artist: Do NOT Skip This Step
This is where most mistakes happen. Don't just walk into the nearest shop or pick the cheapest option. Your matching best friend tattoos deserve an expert.
The Artist Hunt Checklist
- Research Like Crazy: Instagram is your best friend here. Search hashtags like #yourcitytattoo, #bestfriendstattoo, #matchingtattoos. Look for artists whose style *exactly* matches what you want (e.g., #finelinetattoo, #traditionalnyc).
- Portfolio Power: Don't just glance. Scrutinize their healed work photos (1+ years old). Do the lines look crisp? Are colors vibrant or muddy? Does their style shine through consistently?
- Reviews & Reputation: Check Google, Yelp, Facebook. Look for comments about cleanliness, professionalism, and how they handle consultations.
- Consultation is Key: Book a consult (often requires a deposit). Bring your ideas, reference pictures, be open to their professional advice. Do they listen? Are they enthusiastic? Do they explain the process clearly? Do they seem genuinely skilled? This vibe check matters.
- Hygiene is Non-Negotiable: When you visit the shop, scope it out. Is it clean? Does the artist use single-use needles, open sterilized equipment in front of you? Gloves changed? If anything feels off, walk away.
- Price Transparency: Artists usually charge hourly rates ($150-$300+ is common for experienced artists) or set prices for small pieces. Get a clear quote during the consult, including the shop fee. Don't haggle. Good tattoos cost good money.
Red Flag Alert: Avoid artists who pressure you into designs you're unsure about, dismiss your concerns about pain or placement, offer suspiciously cheap prices, or have a portfolio full of shaky lines or blown-out ink. Trust your gut. If it feels wrong, bail.
The Appointment: What Actually Happens When You Get Matching Best Friend Tattoos
Big day! Excitement, nerves, maybe a little fear. Totally normal. Here's the play-by-play:
- Prep: Eat a good meal beforehand (low blood sugar = fainting risk). Stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol or blood thinners (ibuprofen, aspirin) for 24 hours prior. Wear comfy clothes that allow easy access to the tattoo spot.
- Arrival: Show up a few minutes early. You'll fill out consent forms (health history).
- Stencil Time: The artist will clean the area, shave it if necessary, and apply the stencil of your design. Check it! Look at placement, size, orientation. THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE FOR ADJUSTMENTS. Stand up, sit down, look in a mirror. Is it perfect? Speak up now.
- The Buzz Begins: The artist will prep their station (fresh needles, inks, etc.). They'll apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly. Time for the needle. Deep breaths.
- Managing the Ouch: It hurts. There's no sugarcoating it. It feels like a hot, sharp scratch. The level depends HUGELY on placement and your pain tolerance. Ribs, spine, feet, hands? Bad. Forearm, calf, shoulder? Usually more manageable. Breathe steadily. Chat with your buddy. Focus on the meaning. Sometimes artists use numbing spray, but ask about this beforehand – it can affect ink retention.
- Who Goes First? Honestly, just decide beforehand. Flip a coin if needed! Seeing your friend go through it might psych you out, or it might make you feel braver.
- Duration: Small, simple matching best friend tattoos might take 30-60 minutes per person. More complex pieces? Several hours. Be prepared.
- Wrapping Up: The artist will clean the tattoo, apply a thin layer of ointment, and cover it with a bandage (plastic wrap, medical pad, or specialized adhesive film like Saniderm).
- Aftercare Lecture: Pay close attention! They'll tell you exactly how long to keep the initial bandage on, when and how to wash it, what ointment to use, and how often. Write it down if you need to. Tip well (15-20% is standard) for their time and skill!
Healing Your Matching Tattoos: Don't Screw This Up!
This part is CRUCIAL. Messing up aftercare can ruin the tattoo, lead to infection, or cause scarring. Listen to your artist, but here's the universal gist:
The Golden Rules of Tattoo Aftercare
- Keep it Clean (Gently!): Wash your hands first! After removing the initial bandage (when your artist said to!), gently wash the tattoo with lukewarm water and mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap (like Dial Gold). Use fingertips only – no washcloths or loofahs. Pat completely dry with a clean paper towel. Don't rub!
- Moisturize (Thinly!): Apply a VERY THIN layer of recommended ointment (like Aquaphor or A&D) or unscented lotion (like Lubriderm or Aveeno Fragrance-Free) 2-3 times a day. Too much suffocates the tattoo and traps bacteria. It should look slightly shiny, not greasy or goopy.
- Hands Off: DO NOT scratch, pick, or peel scabs. This pulls out ink and causes scarring. If it itches (it will!), slap it gently or apply a little more lotion.
- Soak No, Shower Yes: No baths, swimming pools, hot tubs, or soaking in water for at least 2-3 weeks (until fully healed). Showers are fine, just avoid direct, harsh water pressure on the tattoo.
- Sunblock is Your New Religion: Once fully healed (4-6 weeks), ALWAYS apply high-SPF sunblock (SPF 50+) to your tattoos when exposed to the sun. UV rays are the #1 cause of tattoo fading.
- Wear Loose Clothing: Tight clothes rubbing on a fresh tattoo is painful and can disturb healing.
Infection Warning Signs: Watch out for excessive redness, swelling, hot feeling, pus, severe pain, or red streaks radiating from the tattoo. Fever/chills too. If you see these, contact your artist or a doctor IMMEDIATELY. Don't wait.
When Things Change: Friendship Drift and Tattoo Regret
Let's talk about the elephant in the room. What if you and your bestie aren't besties forever? It happens. Maybe you grow apart, have a major fallout, or life just takes you in different directions.
That tattoo is still there. How do you cope?
- Perspective Shift: It represents who you were and what that friendship meant *at that time*. It's a chapter in your life story, even if the book has moved on. My old matching tattoo? It reminds me of good times, lessons learned, and how I've grown. It doesn't negate the past.
- Cover-Up Options: If it truly bothers you, a skilled artist can often work wonders transforming an old matching best friend tattoo into something new that resonates with who you are now. This usually requires a larger, darker, or more complex design.
- Laser Removal: Expensive, painful, time-consuming (multiple sessions), and doesn't guarantee 100% removal. It often just lightens it enough for a cover-up. Consider this a last resort.
- Own It: Sometimes the simplest route is acceptance. It's part of your history. Not every tattoo needs a profound current meaning. It just is.
Honestly? Going into matching tattoos acknowledging this possibility takes some pressure off. Enjoy the moment, celebrate the bond you have *now*, and trust that whatever happens, you'll handle it.
Matching Best Friend Tattoos: Your Burning Questions Answered (FAQ)
How much do matching best friend tattoos usually cost?
There's no single answer, but expect to pay anywhere from $80-$200+ each for very small, simple designs from an experienced artist (like tiny symbols, initials). Medium-sized pieces (2-4 inches) in styles like fine line or traditional could run $150-$400+ per person. Larger, more complex, or color-heavy pieces easily climb to $500+ per person. Shop minimums ($80-$150) are common. Key factors: Artist's experience/reputation, shop location, design size/complexity, style, time required. Tip: Budget more than you think and prioritize artist skill over saving a few bucks.
Do matching tattoos have to be identical?
Absolutely not! In fact, many people prefer complementary designs over exact copies. Think halves of a whole (like a broken heart), puzzle pieces, symbols that relate (sun & moon, lock & key), or the same theme executed in slightly different styles that suit each person. Identical is classic, but complementary offers more flexibility and personalization. What matters is the shared meaning.
How bad does it hurt to get matching best friend tattoos?
It hurts. How much? That's super personal. Location is the biggest factor (ribs, feet, hands, spine = ouch city; forearm, outer thigh, calf = usually more manageable). Your individual pain tolerance matters too. It feels like a sustained, sharp scratching or burning sensation. The first few minutes are often the worst, then you might go a bit numb. It's bearable for most, but don't expect it to be painless. Getting it done together can definitely help distract you!
What if my friend backs out last minute?
Oof. This sucks, but it happens. Talk openly beforehand about commitment. Deposits (usually $50-$100+) are often non-refundable and hold your appointment spot – backing out means losing that money. If they cancel super last minute, you might still be on the hook for part of the artist's time. You have choices: Get the tattoo solo if you still love the design and meaning for *you*, reschedule together (if the artist allows), or scrap the idea. It's awkward, but communication is key to avoid resentment.
How long does it take for matching tattoos to heal?
The initial surface healing (peeling, scabbing gone) usually takes 2-4 weeks. However, the deeper skin layers take longer to fully settle. A tattoo isn't considered *completely* healed for 3-6 months. During this entire time, keep moisturizing and religiously applying sunscreen whenever it's exposed. Healing well ensures your ink stays vibrant for years.
Are there any places we absolutely shouldn't get matching tattoos?
Think practically and long-term:
- Highly Visible Job-Stoppers: Face, neck, hands (knuckles especially) – can still impact career opportunities unfairly. Seriously weigh the risks.
- Super Painful Zones: Ribs, sternum, spine, feet, inner thigh, groin – intense pain, potentially longer healing. Only if you're both truly prepared.
- High-Friction Areas: Inside of fingers/palms, soles of feet – ink wears off incredibly fast.
- Areas Prone to Stretch/Sag: Stomach (especially if considering pregnancy), inner arm near armpit – major body changes can distort the design.
Can we bring our own design for matching best friend tattoos?
Absolutely! Bringing your own idea is fantastic. However, be open to the artist's expertise. They might need to adjust it slightly for technical reasons (size, detail level, how it flows on the body, longevity). A good artist will collaborate with you to make your vision tattoo-able while preserving its essence. Bring clear reference images.
How do we know if a tattoo artist is good for matching designs?
Look for an artist whose portfolio shows:
- Clean, Consistent Linework: Sharp lines that aren't shaky or blown out.
- Solid Color Packing: Vibrant, even color saturation without patchiness. Smooth Shading: Gradual transitions, no harsh or muddy spots. Crisp Healed Work: Photos of tattoos months or years old that still look sharp – this is crucial!
- Style Match: Their dominant style should align with what you want (e.g., don't hire a realism expert for a geometric piece).
- Positive Reviews: Especially mentions of professionalism, cleanliness, and good communication.
If they have examples of matching best friend tattoos in their portfolio, even better!
The Final Word: Is Matching Ink Right for You and Your Bestie?
Only you two can answer that. Matching best friend tattoos are an incredibly special way to honor a profound bond. The shared experience is unforgettable, and seeing that symbol of your connection every day can be deeply meaningful.
But. It's permanent. Seriously permanent. It costs real money. It hurts. Friendships can change. Designs can feel dated.
Do your homework – on designs, artists, placements, costs, and aftercare. Talk honestly with your friend about the commitment and the "what ifs." Choose something timeless and deeply meaningful *to both of you*. Find an artist you trust implicitly.
If after all that, you're both still buzzing with excitement and nodding "hell yes," then go for it. Get those matching best friend tattoos. Celebrate your unique, amazing friendship in ink. Just go in with your eyes wide open, knowing it's forever.
And hey, if you do it? Send me a pic. I love seeing great matching tattoo stories come to life.