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If you’re searching for the perfect location for your next ink, consider getting a back-of-the-neck tattoo, which can easily be hidden by hair or shown off to the world like a piece of permanent jewelry, depending on your mood. If you’re a first-timer when it comes to getting inked, this area makes sense for a number of different reasons. The location is a relatively small canvas, making the back of neck an ideal spot for a little ink art that may look out of place against larger areas of the body. And while any tattoo will come with a certain level of pain, this spot is considered to be one of the less-painful ones, making it a friendly first-time tattoo spot. Additionally, back-of-the-neck tattoos are easily covered, so they’re an ideal choice if you don’t want an overtly visible piece. When you are looking to show off your ink, opt for an updo or side fishtail braid to complement your art.
To inspire you to consider the back of the neck for your next (or hey, first) tattoo, we’ve picked some of the best back-of-neck tattoo ideas from Instagram. We’ve rounded up small neck tattoos, larger designs, and everything in between. Read on to see our favorites.
Dainty Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
If you want a small, dainty back-of-the-neck tattoo, go for an abstract flower design like this one using the fine-line tattoo style.
Name Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
If you want to dedicate your tattoo to a loved one, you can always opt to get a name tattoo.
Birds Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
These sweet, colorful birds fit perfectly on the back of the neck.
Small Floral Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This flower design couldn’t be cuter. It’s created using fine lines, which makes it perfect for the back of the neck.
Stars Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
Looking for something tiny and delicate? Opt for a constellation of little stars.
Eyes Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
How cool is this eye tattoo? We love that it’s in black and white but you could choose a colorful design as well.
Moon Phases Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
The phases of the moon make a beautiful tattoo for the back of the neck.
Word Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
A word that has special meaning always makes a great tattoo.
Flowers and Quote Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This back-of-the-neck tattoo features flowers and a quote that reads, “Even if I’m born again, I’ll be your daughter.”
Geometric Shapes Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
These geometric shapes look so cool as a back-of-the-neck tattoo. Opt for your favorite shapes or do the same ones in this image.
Dog Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This tiny dog makes such a cute back-of-the-neck tattoo. It would be a great option if you have a pet you love.
Sword Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This tiny fine-line tattoo is delicate yet powerful.
Paw Prints Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
Whether you have a specific pet in mind or you just love all animals, paw prints make a great tattoo.
Sun and Moon Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This bold sun and moon tattoo is gorgeous. It’s done with thicker ink in a more traditional style, but you could always select something more fine.
Tiger Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
Take a walk on the wild side with this tiger tattoo.
Hand and Wave Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
How cool is this back-of-the-neck tattoo that features a hand, sun, and wave? Whether you love the ocean or you find a different meaning in this image, we are obsessed with the positioning.
Number Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
If you have a lucky number or a number with special meaning, it makes for great ink.
Date Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
A special date makes a great tattoo for the back of the neck. Whether it’s a year or a full date, the sentiment is sweet.
Quote Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
A quote makes a great tattoo no matter the location. We love that this one has flowers at the end of it.
Butterfly Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This butterfly tattoo is small but mighty. Butterflies symbolize freedom and new starts.
Artwork Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This back-of-the-neck tattoo features a famous work of art.
Matching Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
The back of the neck is a great location for matching tattoos. You can opt for any design that appeals to both people.
Flowers Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This floral arrangement is simple but looks perfect on the back of the neck.
Buddha Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
This minimalist buddha design makes such a cool back-of-the-neck tattoo. This is a larger piece but you could go for something smaller.
Dragon Back-of-the-Neck Tattoo
Make a fierce statement with a dragon tattoo. The piece can go all the way up to your ear if you’d like.
Nile Cappello is a PS contributor.
Renee Rodriguez (she/her) is a staff writer and social producer for PS. She writes across all verticals, but her main areas of expertise focus on fashion and beauty content with an emphasis on reviews and editor experiments. She also produces social content for the PS TikTok and Instagram accounts.
