Tiny Tattoos – Everything You Need To Know
- Katy Northey
- Oct 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 12
Tiny Tattoos (also known as micro tattoos or fine-line tattoos) have become one of the most requested styles in the UK. Whether you want a delicate symbol, initials, a tiny floral, or a minimal line-art design, micro tattoos are the perfect way to express something meaningful without committing to a large piece.
At GLAM Brixham, we specialise in precise, delicate cosmetic tattooing — making tiny tattoos a natural extension of the services our clients already love.
This guide covers everything you need to know before booking your tiny tattoo appointment.
What Is a Tiny Tattoo?
A tiny tattoo is a small, minimalist design — usually between 5cm – 10cm — created with precise techniques and ultra-fine needles. They are perfect for:
First-time tattoo clients
People who want subtle, discreet ink
Minimalist designs (symbols, initials, line art, florals)
Placements like the wrist, collarbone, ankle, fingers, or behind the ear
Because tiny tattoos use fine lines and small needle groupings, they require a steady hand and trained precision to prevent blow-outs, spreading or early fading.
See Treatments for more information on cosmetic tattoo services availble
Does a Tiny Tattoo Hurt?
Most clients describe tiny tattoos as mild, scratchy, or simply “annoying rather than painful.”
Pain level depends on:
Placement (fingers / ribs = more sensitive : arm / ankle = milder)
Your own pain tolerance
How fine the needle is
The good news? Tiny tattoos are quick — most are completed in 10–25 minutes.
Pain is our No1 Frequently Asked Question. You can read all about Healing & Aftercare in our FAQ's
How Long Does a Tiny Tattoo Last?
Tiny tattoos are permanent, but fine-line tattoos naturally fade faster than thicker traditional tattoo styles. Just the same as Microblading & Lip Blush, a Fine Line Tattoo requires a 6-8 week touch up
Longevity depends on:
Skin type (oily skin may fade faster)
Placement (fingers fade quickest due to friction)
Sun exposure
Aftercare
Artist technique
Expect your design to stay crisp for years. Some very fine designs may require a touch-up every 1–3 years to maintain sharpness.
We recommend reading Microblading Healing Process to further understand the healing process
Popular Tiny Tattoo Placements
These small designs work beautifully in:
Inner wrist
Ankle
Collarbone
Finger side
Behind the ear
Hip
Inner forearm
Shoulder front
Tiny tattoos are ideal for discreet placements or marking personal moments with a delicate, symbolic design.
Tiny Tattoo Design Ideas
Clients often choose:
Mini hearts
Tiny florals (rosebud, wildflower, lavender sprig)
Constellations or zodiac symbols
Initials
Minimal line-art animals
Dates
Angel numbers
Religious or spiritual symbols
Ocean-inspired motifs (perfect for Brixham locals!)
We are offering Flash Sheet tattoo designs - choose your design & size up or down
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Consultation Discussion of size, placement, and design. You can bring references or choose from pre-drawn options from our Flash Sheets.
Skin prep & sanitisation We follow strict clinical hygiene standards using single-use needles, sterile equipment, gloves, and medical-grade cleaning.
Design placement Application of a stencil so you can check the exact position.
Tattooing Most tiny tattoos take 10–25 minutes.
Aftercare overview You will receive written aftercare instructions and a recommended aftercare routine to protect your new tattoo while it heals.
6-8 Week Touch Up Parts of your fine line will have faded from healing, we go over your tattoo and perfect any pigment which has been lost.
Aftercare: Healing Your Tiny Tattoo
Tiny tattoos heal faster than large tattoos — usually 1–3 weeks.
DO:
Clean gently with warm water
Keep lightly moisturised
Avoid soaking (baths, pools, saunas)
Avoid direct sun
Wear loose clothing over the area
DON’T:
Don’t pick the tattoo
Don’t scratch
Don’t apply fake tan or exfoliants
Don’t expose it to saltwater or chlorine while healing
Tiny tattoos may go through:
Light dryness
Mild itchiness
A light “frosting” effect
Slight softening after healed
This is normal.
Are Tiny Tattoos a Good First Tattoo?
Yes — tiny tattoos are perfect for beginners because:
They’re quick
They’re low commitment
They’re discreet
They’re budget-friendly
They have a simple healing process
If you’ve always wanted a tattoo but felt nervous, a tiny tattoo is the ideal starting point.
How Much Do Tiny Tattoos Cost?
Prices vary depending on:
Size
Placement
Complexity
Linework detail
As a guide, tiny tattoo pricing in the UK typically ranges from £40–£120, with premium pricing for specialist fine-line work.
View our Price List
Who Can NOT Get a Tiny Tattoo?
You cannot get tattooed if:
You are under 18 (UK law — no exceptions)
Pregnant or breastfeeding
On blood thinners
Have uncontrolled diabetes
Have active skin conditions at the tattoo site
Have an infection, illness or fever
Have undergone recent chemical peels, sunburn or cosmetic treatments over the area
If unsure, message me before booking.
Your Next Steps
If you’re thinking about a tiny tattoo, the best thing to do is book a consultation so we can discuss your design preferences
✨ Ready to design your tiny tattoo? Book your appointment now.→ BOOK NOW
Useful Links
Want brows too? → Read: Microblading for Women Over 50
Want to understand brow design? → Read: Brow Mapping Explained
Learning about Lip Blush basics? → Read: What Is Lip Blush Tattoo?
