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1000+ Behind The Ear Tattoo Ideas: Discreet & Meaningful Designs

Meaning of Behind The Ear Tattoos

  • Behind the ear placement represents personal secrets and intimate connections to memories or beliefs
  • Small designs in this area symbolize subtle rebellion against conventional tattoo visibility standards
  • The hidden location suggests protection of cherished thoughts and private emotional significance
  • Fine line techniques work best due to limited space and sensitive skin texture
  • Popular motifs include butterflies representing transformation hidden from public view
  • Names and dates create personal memorials in this discrete anatomical sanctuary
  • Minimalist symbols carry maximum impact when placed strategically behind ear cartilage
  • Professional artists recommend simple designs to ensure proper healing in this delicate area
  • Cultural significance varies but universally represents something precious worth concealing yet celebrating
  • Aftercare requires special attention due to hair coverage and natural oil production

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How Much Does a Behind The Ear Tattoo Cost

Tattoo SizeStarting OutApprenticeEstablishedExperiencedPopular
(>50k IG followers)		World's Top
(>200k IG followers)
Tiny Tattoo$50–$150$100–$250$150–$350$200–$400$300–$600$500–$1,000
Small Tattoo
(Under 2")		$80–$250$100–$350$200–$500$300–$600$400–$800$600–$1,200
Medium Tattoo
(2–4")		$100–$400$150–$500$250–$800$400–$1,000$600–$1,500$1,000–$2,500
Large Tattoo
(4–8")		$200–$600$300–$800$500–$1,200$700–$1,500$1,000–$2,000$1,500–$3,500
Half Sleeve$300–$800$500–$1,200$800–$1,800$1,200–$2,500$2,000–$4,000$3,000–$6,000+
Full Sleeve$500–$1,500$800–$2,000$1,500–$3,500$2,500–$5,000$4,000–$8,000$6,000–$10,000+
Full Back$600–$1,200$1,000–$2,000$1,500–$3,000$2,000–$4,000$3,000–$5,000$5,000–$10,000+
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Behind The Ear Tattoo Pain Cart

User story

Tattoo pain varies by body location. Most painful spots include ribs, spine, and joints, while least painful areas are upper arms and calves. Our tattoo pain chart helps you choose the right placement for your comfort level.

FAQ

Do behind the ear tattoos hurt more?

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Yes, behind the ear tattoos are moderately painful due to thin skin and proximity to bone, but the small size makes sessions brief and manageable.

How long do behind the ear tattoos take to heal?

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Behind the ear tattoos typically heal within 2-3 weeks with proper care, though hair coverage requires extra attention to cleanliness and moisture.

What designs work best behind the ear?

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Small, simple designs like stars, butterflies, initials, or geometric shapes work best due to limited space and skin sensitivity in this area.

Will behind the ear tattoos fade quickly?

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Behind the ear tattoos may fade slightly faster due to hair friction and natural oils, but quality ink and proper aftercare ensure longevity.