A sternum tattoo, often called an under-boob tattoo, is an extraordinary form of body art steadily gaining popularity. Its unique location and the potential for stunning designs make it a compelling choice for tattoo enthusiasts. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on sternum tattoos, their meanings, their associated pain levels, and valuable tips for their care.
Understanding Sternum Tattoos
The sternum, or the breastbone, is a flat bone in the middle of your chest. This central location makes it an attractive canvas for body art. Sternum tattoos are typically inked directly onto the breastbone. However, for women, the design often flows beneath the breasts, following the body’s contours to create an eye-catching, intimate piece of art.
Popular Styles and Designs of Sternum Tattoos
Decoding the Appeal of Sternum Tattoos
Sternum tattoos are particularly appealing due to their dual nature. They can be easily concealed under clothing, making them a personal and intimate form of self-expression. Alternatively, they can be displayed prominently when wearing low-cut tops or swimsuits, turning your body into a living canvas of art. The design possibilities for sternum tattoos are as varied as the individuals wearing them, ranging from intricate geometric patterns to delicate floral motifs.
1. Sternum Tattoo Women
For women, sternum tattoos have become a powerful symbol of femininity, strength, and self-confidence. Women often opt for designs that accentuate their curves and enhance their natural beauty. One popular style among women is the minimalist sternum tattoo. These delicate and understated designs, such as a tiny heart or a single word, allow for a subtle yet impactful expression of individuality.
2. Small Sternum Tattoo
Small sternum tattoos are another favoured choice, as they offer versatility and discreetness. These dainty designs can range from a small flower or a tiny butterfly to a delicate lace pattern. The beauty of small sternum tattoos lies in their ability to remain hidden or showcased depending on the individual’s preference, making them a perfect option for those who desire a more intimate and private tattoo.
3. Cute Small Sternum Tattoos
Cute small sternum tattoos have gained immense popularity due to their adorably charming nature. Designs such as an adorable animal, a whimsical fairy, or a playful cartoon character can bring a touch of innocence and playfulness to the sternum area. These tattoos are an excellent choice for those who want to express their lighthearted and fun-loving personality.
4. Unique Sternum Tattoo
Uniqueness is vital when it comes to sternum tattoos, as individuals strive to stand out from the crowd and create a genuinely one-of-a-kind tattoo. A unique sternum tattoo can be a combination of different design elements, such as a fusion of flowers and geometric shapes or a personalized symbol that holds deep meaning to the individual. These tattoos serve as a reflection of the wearer’s distinct personality and individuality.
5. Flower Sternum Tattoo
Flower sternum tattoos are a classic choice, symbolizing beauty, growth, and femininity. The sternum area provides ample space to showcase intricate floral designs, such as a blooming rose, a delicate lotus, or a vibrant sunflower. Flower sternum tattoos can be designed in various styles, from realistic and detailed to minimalist and abstract, allowing individuals to find the perfect representation of their desired aesthetic.
6. Lotus Sternum Tattoo
The lotus sternum tattoo holds a special significance in many cultures and spiritual traditions. The lotus flower is a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and rebirth, making it a powerful choice for a sternum tattoo. The intricate details of a lotus sternum tattoo can showcase the wearer’s spiritual journey or their desire for personal growth and transformation.
7. Minimal Sternum Tattoo
Minimalist sternum tattoos have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their simplistic yet impactful nature. These tattoos typically feature clean lines, geometric shapes, or small symbols, allowing for a discreet yet visually striking design. Minimal sternum tattoos are an excellent choice for those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity and want a tattoo that can easily complement their everyday style.
8. Sternum Tattoo Men
While sternum tattoos are often associated with women, men have also embraced this unique and captivating tattoo placement. Men’s sternum tattoos can be bold, edgy, and masculine, showcasing their strength and individuality. Let’s explore some popular styles and designs that men favor.
9. Bat Sternum Tattoo
The bat sternum tattoo is a popular choice among men who are drawn to the dark and mysterious side of life. Bats symbolize rebirth, transformation, and the ability to navigate through the darkness. A bat sternum tattoo can exude a sense of power and resilience, making it an ideal choice for those who want to showcase their inner strength.
10. Butterfly Sternum Tattoo
Butterflies are not solely associated with femininity; they also hold powerful symbolism for men. A butterfly sternum tattoo can represent freedom, growth, and personal transformation. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors of a butterfly sternum tattoo can create a visually stunning and captivating design that resonates with a man’s desire for change and personal evolution.
11. Lace Sternum Tattoos
Lace sternum tattoos are a popular choice among men who appreciate the intricacy and elegance of this delicate fabric. These tattoos often feature intricate lace patterns that wrap around the sternum area, creating a visually appealing and stylish design. Lace sternum tattoos can represent a man’s appreciation for the finer things in life and his attention to detail.
12. Dragon Sternum Tattoo
Dragons are mythical creatures that have been revered in various cultures for centuries. A dragon sternum tattoo can symbolize strength, power, and wisdom. These tattoos often showcase intricate dragon scales, sharp claws, and fiery breath, creating a visually striking and awe-inspiring design that represents a man’s inner fire and determination.
13. Mandala Sternum Tattoo
Mandala sternum tattoos are a perfect choice for those who seek balance, harmony, and spiritual enlightenment. Mandala patterns, with their intricate geometric designs, represent the universe and the interconnectedness of all things. A mandala sternum tattoo can serve as a reminder for a man to find peace within himself and embrace the beauty of life’s journey.
14. Moon Sternum Tattoo
The moon has long been associated with mystery, intuition, and the ebb and flow of emotions. A moon sternum tattoo can represent a man’s connection to his feelings and his ability to navigate through life’s ups and downs. These tattoos often showcase the various phases of the moon or incorporate other elements, such as stars or clouds, creating a visually captivating and emotionally significant design.
15. Rose Sternum Tattoo
The rose is a timeless symbol of love, beauty, and passion. A rose sternum tattoo can represent a man’s romantic nature or his appreciation for the finer things in life. These tattoos often feature realistic and detailed rose petals, showcasing the wearer’s attention to detail and their desire to express their deep emotions.
16. Floral Sternum Tattoo
Floral sternum tattoos offer a wide array of design options, allowing men to express their style and personality. From bold and vibrant flowers to delicate and understated blooms, floral sternum tattoos can represent a man’s connection to nature, his appreciation for beauty, or his desire for personal growth and transformation. These tattoos can be designed in various styles, from realistic and detailed to abstract and minimalist.
17. Geometric Sternum Tattoos
Geometric sternum tattoos are a popular choice among men who appreciate clean lines, symmetry, and the beauty of mathematical precision. These tattoos often feature intricate geometric shapes, such as triangles, circles, or hexagons, arranged in visually appealing patterns. Geometric sternum tattoos can represent a man’s logical and analytical nature or his appreciation for order and balance in life.
18. Gothic Sternum Tattoo
For those with a dark and edgy aesthetic, a gothic sternum tattoo can be a powerful expression of their unique style. Gothic sternum tattoos often feature elements such as skulls, bats, ravens, or intricate dark patterns. These tattoos can represent a man’s fascination with the macabre, his rebellious nature, or his desire to embrace the mystery and darkness within himself.
19. Snake Sternum Tattoo
Snakes have long been associated with transformation, rebirth, and wisdom. A snake sternum tattoo can symbolize a man’s ability to shed old skin, release the past, and embrace personal growth and transformation. These tattoos often showcase the curved form of a snake, with intricate details and vibrant colors, creating a visually captivating and symbolically rich design.
20. Jellyfish Sternum Tattoo
Jellyfish sternum tattoos have gained popularity due to their ethereal and mesmerizing nature. Jellyfish symbolize grace, adaptability, and the ability to navigate through life’s challenges. A jellyfish sternum tattoo can represent a man’s ability to go with the flow, embrace change, and find beauty in the unknown. These tattoos often feature delicate tentacles and translucent colours, creating a visually stunning and captivating design.
21. Witch Sternum Tattoo
A witch sternum tattoo can represent a man’s connection to the mystical, his fascination with magic and the occult, or his desire to embrace his inner power. These tattoos often feature elements such as a witch’s hat, a broomstick, or a cauldron, creating a visually striking and robust design that reflects a man’s unique spirituality and beliefs.
22. Dagger Sternum Tattoo
A dagger sternum tattoo can symbolize a man’s bravery, resilience, and willingness to face life’s challenges head-on. These tattoos often feature a sharp and intricate dagger design, sometimes accompanied by other elements such as roses or snakes, creating a visually striking and powerful symbol of strength and determination.
23. Phoenix Sternum Tattoo
The phoenix is a mythical bird that represents rebirth, resilience, and the ability to rise from the ashes. A phoenix sternum tattoo can symbolize a man’s ability to overcome adversity, embrace personal transformation, and start anew. These tattoos often showcase the vibrant colors and intricate details of a phoenix, creating a visually captivating and emotionally significant design.
24. Sword Sternum Tattoo
A sword sternum tattoo can symbolize a man’s strength, courage, and warrior spirit. These tattoos often feature an intricately designed sword, sometimes accompanied by other elements such as shields or tribal patterns. A sword sternum tattoo serves as a powerful reminder of a man’s ability to protect himself and those he cares about, making it a popular choice among those who value honor, loyalty, and bravery.
25. Cute Sternum Tattoos
Cute sternum tattoos are not solely reserved for women; men can also embrace the charm and playfulness of these designs. Cute sternum tattoos often feature adorable animals, cartoon characters, or whimsical symbols, creating a lighthearted and visually appealing design. These tattoos allow men to express their softer side and showcase their fun-loving and youthful personality.
26. Death Moth Sternum Tattoo
The death moth, also known as the Acherontia atropos, is a symbol of the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death. A death moth sternum tattoo can represent a man’s acceptance of mortality, his fascination with the macabre, or his desire to embrace the fleeting beauty of existence. These tattoos often feature intricate details and dark colours, creating a visually striking and emotionally charged design.
27. Dragonfly Sternum Tattoo
Dragonflies are often associated with transformation, adaptability, and the ability to navigate through life’s changes with grace. A dragonfly sternum tattoo can symbolize a man’s personal growth, his ability to let go of the past, and his desire to embrace new beginnings. These tattoos often feature vibrant colors and delicate wing patterns, creating a visually captivating and symbolically rich design.
28. Lace Mandala Sternum Tattoo
A lace mandala sternum tattoo combines the elegance of lace with the intricate beauty of mandala patterns. These tattoos often feature delicate lace-like details arranged in a mandala design, creating a visually stunning and unique representation of balance, harmony, and interconnectedness. A lace mandala sternum tattoo serves as a potent reminder for a man to find peace within himself and embrace the beauty of life’s journey.
29. Sexy Sternum Tattoo
A sexy sternum tattoo can be a powerful expression of a man’s confidence, sensuality, and allure. These tattoos often feature elements such as lace patterns, sensual curves, or provocative symbols, creating a visually captivating design. A sexy sternum tattoo serves as a reminder for a man to embrace his unique brand of sexiness and celebrate his body.
30. Spider Sternum Tattoo
Spiders are often associated with mystery, creativity, and the ability to weave intricate webs. A spider sternum tattoo can symbolize a man’s artistic nature, his ability to create and manifest his desires, or his fascination with the unknown. These tattoos often feature a detailed spider design, sometimes accompanied by a web or other elements such as flowers or skulls, creating a visually striking and symbolically rich design.
31. Bee Sternum Tattoo
Bees are often associated with hard work, community, and the sweetness of life’s rewards. A bee sternum tattoo can symbolize a man’s dedication, his ability to collaborate with others, or his desire to find joy in the simple pleasures of life. These tattoos often feature a realistic and detailed bee design, sometimes accompanied by flowers or honeycombs, creating a visually appealing and symbolically rich design.
32. Skull Sternum Tattoo
Skull sternum tattoos have gained popularity among men due to their bold and edgy nature. Skulls can represent mortality, the impermanence of life, or a man’s ability to confront his fears. These tattoos often feature intricate details and vibrant colors, creating a visually striking and powerful symbol of strength and resilience.
33. Sun Sternum Tattoo
The sun is a symbol of life, vitality, and energy. A sun sternum tattoo can represent a man’s inner fire, his ability to shine brightly, or his desire to embrace his unique radiance. These tattoos often feature a stylized sun design, sometimes accompanied by other elements such as rays or tribal patterns, creating a visually captivating and symbolically rich design.
34. Sunflower Sternum Tattoo
The sunflower is often associated with joy, happiness, and optimism. A sunflower sternum tattoo can serve as a reminder to find beauty in life’s simplest pleasures and always to seek the light. It symbolizes growth, resilience, and the ability to thrive even in challenging circumstances. This design can be significant for those who have overcome adversity or are striving for personal growth.
35. Traditional Sternum Tattoos
Traditional sternum tattoos often draw inspiration from classic tattoo designs, such as anchors, roses, or hearts. These timeless designs hold different meanings for each individual and can be customized to reflect personal stories or beliefs. Traditional sternum tattoos are often bold and vibrant, making a powerful statement. They serve as a reminder of tradition, heritage, and the timeless art of tattooing.
36. Fine Line Sternum Tattoo
For those who prefer a more delicate and subtle approach to body art, a fine-line sternum tattoo can be an excellent choice. This style often features intricate and detailed designs created with thin, precise lines. Fine-line sternum tattoos can be minimalist or complex, depending on personal preference. They are usually chosen for their elegance and subtlety, allowing individuals to express their creativity and personality in a more understated way.
37. Meaningful Small Sternum Tattoo – Intimate
Sometimes, a small and intimate sternum tattoo can hold the most profound meaning. These tattoos often feature symbols, initials, or words that are deeply personal to the individual. They can represent loved ones, personal mantras, or significant life events. A small and meaningful sternum tattoo can serve as a reminder of what truly matters in life, offering comfort and strength during challenging times.
Experiencing the Pain
Before getting a sternum tattoo, it’s essential to know that tattooing over bone can be pretty painful. Many people report that the sternum is one of the most painful places to get a tattoo. The skin in this region is thin, with the bone lying just beneath, increasing the sensitivity to the tattoo needle. However, each person’s pain threshold differs, so while some may find the process intensely uncomfortable, others may find it bearable.
Sternum Tattoo Designs: The Spectrum of Creativity
When deciding on a design for your sternum tattoo, consider the following popular themes:
- Floral Designs: From intricate roses to delicate cherry blossoms, floral designs are a timeless choice for sternum tattoos. The natural curves of flowers and leaves can complement the body’s contours, resulting in a beautiful and organic tattoo.
- Geometric Patterns: The central location of the sternum lends itself to symmetrical, geometric designs. These can create a sense of balance and harmony, adding a mathematical precision to the organic form of the body.
- Mandala Tattoos: with their intricate patterns and symbolic meanings, Mandalas are a popular choice for sternum tattoos. They can serve as a focal point for meditation, helping the wearer to find a sense of inner balance and calm.
- Animal Tattoos: From the strength and majesty of a lion to the delicate beauty of a butterfly, animal designs can convey various meanings and are a favourite choice for sternum tattoos.
The Tattooing Process: What to Expect
When you go to get your sternum tattoo, it’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing. Women may need to remove their bras so the tattoo artist can place the tattoo accurately. It’s also important to be prepared for the pain associated with this area. Before the process begins, the tattoo artist will clean the area and apply a stencil of the design. The tattooing process can take several hours, depending on the complexity and size of the design.
Post-Tattoo Care: Ensuring a Smooth Healing Process
Aftercare is crucial for sternum tattoos. Due to their placement, they can be prone to irritation from clothing and movement. It’s essential to keep the tattoo clean and moisturized and avoid direct sunlight and abrasive clothing during healing. Your tattoo artist will provide specific aftercare instructions, including applying a healing ointment, washing the tattoo with mild soap, and avoiding soaking the tattoo in water for extended periods.
In Conclusion: Are Sternum Tattoos Right for You?
A sternum tattoo is a personal statement, a piece of art you always carry. It’s a commitment in terms of the pain involved in the tattooing process and the permanence of the design. However, for many people, the beauty and uniqueness of a sternum tattoo make it worth the challenges. With careful design selection, preparation, and aftercare, a sternum tattoo can be a meaningful and visually striking form of self-expression.
Whether you’re considering your first tattoo or looking to add to your collection, we hope this guide has provided valuable insights into the world of sternum tattoos. As always, it’s essential to research, choose a skilled and reputable tattoo artist, and ensure you’re entirely comfortable with your design decision before going under the needle.
