20+ Amazing Behind The Ear Tattoo Ideas To Inspire You In 2023!

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Reviewed & fact checked: July 18, 2023 by Jamie Wilson (BA)

As a seasoned tattoo connoisseur, I’ve often found the realm of ink to be much more than mere aesthetic enhancement. It’s a form of self-expression, a story penned onto the skin that lasts a lifetime. Today, we delve into a niche yet fascinating aspect of this domain – behind-the-ear tattoos for men. Though conventionally seen more among women, this trend is finding traction amongst men who appreciate subtle and unique body art. This blog post is dedicated to exploring the ins and outs of this emerging tattoo trend, decoding its aesthetic allure, and decoding its deep-seated symbolism.

In the forthcoming sections, you will discover a curated compilation of behind-the-ear tattoo ideas tailored specifically for men, designed to inspire those considering their first or next piece of skin art. We’ll explore the reasons behind this growing preference – from the appeal of its discrete location to the scope it offers for creative expression. Additionally, we will delve into the practical considerations one needs to be aware of, like pain tolerance, aftercare procedures, and potential challenges related to this specific tattoo placement.

Whether you’re a tattoo aficionado, a curious novice, or someone contemplating a behind-the-ear tattoo, this blog post aims to enrich your understanding and empower you with the information you need. Join me as we navigate through this captivating world of tattoos where ink meets individuality, and style is etched in permanence.

Behind Ear Tattoos For Men

Embracing the art of the mandala, this specific behind the ear tattoo is marked by exquisite details and impressive craftsmanship. It adopts the form of a half-circle, lending the wearer a distinct appearance. With no visible inflammation or redness around the tattooed area, it stands as testament to the expertise of the tattoo artist. If you’re seeking a refined blend of Eastern design elements, this could be your ideal choice.

Ghost Tattoo Behind The Ear Men

Appearing endearing yet simple, ghost tattoos can offer an unexpected charm. The design shown here mimics a mobile emoticon, carrying a minimalist appeal. Despite the noticeable inflammation around the tattooed area, it demonstrates that an equally stunning and impressive design can be achieved with other tattoo choices. The ghost tattoo could serve as a unique option for both men and women, given its simplicity and distinctiveness.

Zodiac Sign Placement Men Behind The Ear Tattoo

Highlighting a striking scorpion symbol, this zodiac tattoo could captivate anyone who cherishes astrology. Designed for those born under the Scorpio sign, this tattoo stands out with its intricate detailing. With little evidence of discomfort or inflammation, it’s a testament to the tattoo artist’s skill and the wearer’s resilience. A zodiac-inspired tattoo like this could be your next choice if you’re passionate about astrology.

Flower Tattoo Behind The Ear

Challenging the stereotypical perception of floral tattoos being predominantly feminine, the image shared here showcases how men can stylishly sport flower tattoos. Positioned behind the ear, the floral design appears both fashionable and attractive, making it a versatile choice that both genders can don with pride.

Minimalistic Behind The Ear Tattoos

In sync with current trends, minimalist tattoos stand out remarkably when placed behind the ears. The example presented here features a shark, often regarded as a symbol of masculinity. With no visible redness or inflammation, it adds a unique charm to the wearer’s overall look. If you’re an enthusiast of the ocean or want to express your masculinity, this could be your ideal design.

Butterfly Tattoo Design For Men Behind The Ears

This design, featuring a black-inked butterfly, enhances the wearer’s appeal significantly. Ideal for nature lovers and fans of smaller tattoos, the butterfly design is detailed and clear, making it a versatile choice for any gender.

Cute Colourful Tattoo Designs Behind The Ears

Imbibing a playful spirit, this colorful landscape tattoo placed behind the ear stands out with its vibrant charm. Framed within a diamond-shaped structure, this landscape tattoo could be your ideal pick if you’re a fan of colorful designs.

Neck And Ear Tattoo Design

Extending from behind the ear to the shoulder, this tattoo design adopts the peaceful and stable symbol of mandala art. Despite its extensive black ink coverage, it looks stunning and speaks volumes about the wearer’s high pain tolerance. If you appreciate detailed artwork and tattoos that connect different parts of the body, this could be your perfect match.

Skull Behind The Ear Tattoo Design

While skull tattoos may denote an association with gothic culture and a certain comfort with the concept of mortality, the design showcased here illustrates how a skull can be depicted in an aesthetically pleasing way. With its subtle incorporation into pop culture, this skull tattoo could potentially appeal to a wide audience. If you seek a less foreboding, non-gothic design, this could be the perfect fit.

Inverted Cross Ear Tattoo Ideas For Men

The inverted cross tattoo, often viewed as a symbol of humility or a critique of Christianity, can also be interpreted as a style statement. Some see it as a homage to goth or emo culture, while others view it as a rebellious sign. Despite its potential for controversy, it remains a popular choice. However, to avoid skin irritation, it’s crucial to find a skilled tattoo artist who can execute this design flawlessly.

Need More Inspiration

6 Practical Considerations For Your Next Tattoo

When considering behind-the-ear tattoos, several practical considerations should be taken into account:

Pain Tolerance: The area behind the ear has a high concentration of nerves and is close to the bone, with minimal flesh to cushion the impact of the needle. This makes it one of the more sensitive locations to get a tattoo, and individuals with low pain tolerance might find the procedure uncomfortable. However, everyone experiences pain differently, so it’s essential to have an open discussion about this with your tattoo artist prior to the procedure.

Visibility: The behind-the-ear location is semi-visible. It can be easily covered with long hair, hats, or collars if needed, which might be advantageous for people working in a professional setting that frowns upon visible tattoos. On the other hand, if you want your tattoo to be prominently displayed, this location might not be the best choice.

Size and Complexity of Design: Due to the limited space behind the ear, the designs that can be executed effectively are generally smaller and less complex. Detailed designs might lose clarity over time due to the natural aging process of tattoos and the skin.

Aftercare Procedures: After getting a tattoo, it’s crucial to follow proper aftercare procedures to ensure that your skin heals correctly and your tattoo remains vibrant. This involves cleaning the area gently with mild soap and warm water, applying an aftercare ointment as recommended by your artist, avoiding swimming and excessive sweating, and refraining from scratching the area even if it itches during the healing process.

Hearing Sensitivity: The sound of the tattoo machine can be much louder when getting a tattoo in this location due to its proximity to your ear. If you have sensitive hearing or are bothered by loud noises, you may want to prepare yourself for this aspect of the process.

Healing Process: The area behind the ear can be a high-friction area, especially if you frequently wear glasses or use earphones. These can rub against a new tattoo and potentially cause irritation during the healing process.

In conclusion, while behind-the-ear tattoos can be a unique and subtle form of self-expression, they do come with their own set of practical considerations. It’s crucial to understand these factors and prepare accordingly before committing to a tattoo in this location.

What Is The Symbolism Behind These Types Of Tattoos?

The symbolism behind a tattoo is largely dependent on the design chosen by the individual. That said, location can often carry a certain weight of meaning as well. Here are some potential symbolisms tied to the designs and the location behind the ear:

Behind-the-Ear Placement: This location is often seen as intimate and personal due to its less visible nature. It might suggest that the tattoo is of special significance to the wearer, perhaps carrying a personal or private meaning. Furthermore, since this location is near the head and brain, some people might associate it with matters related to thought, wisdom, or spirituality.

Mandala Design: Mandala is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the universe. In general, mandalas are seen as symbols of balance, eternity, and unity.

Ghost Tattoo: Ghosts can symbolize many things, from the memory of past events to a playful, whimsical nature. It can also denote overcoming fear or the willingness to confront the unknown.

Zodiac Sign: Zodiac tattoos typically symbolize the characteristics associated with the wearer’s astrological sign. For instance, a scorpion for Scorpio might signify resourcefulness, bravery, and passion.

Floral Tattoo: Flowers carry different meanings based on their types. In general, they can symbolize life, growth, beauty, and the fleeting nature of existence.

Shark Tattoo: Sharks can represent strength, survival, and freedom. They might also symbolize a fearless spirit or the ability to overcome challenges.

Butterfly Tattoo: Butterflies often symbolize transformation, hope, and freedom. They might also represent the beauty of nature or the importance of personal growth.

Colorful Design: A colorful tattoo might indicate a vibrant, creative, or artistic personality. It can also represent the diversity and beauty of life.

Skull Design: Skulls can represent mortality, the fleeting nature of life, or a celebration of life. They might also symbolize overcoming difficult challenges or periods of transformation.

Inverted Cross: Depending on cultural or personal beliefs, an inverted cross can symbolize humility, defiance, or individuality. It may also be seen as a critique of certain religious beliefs.

Please remember that these are only potential interpretations. The ultimate meaning of a tattoo is deeply personal and varies greatly from person to person. Always choose a design and location that resonate with your personal beliefs, values, and aesthetic preferences.

Can These Tattoos Be Worn By Both Men And Women?

Yes, absolutely. Behind-the-ear tattoos can be worn by anyone, regardless of gender. While historically, certain designs may have been stereotypically associated with a specific gender, such boundaries have largely blurred in recent years. Today, the choice of tattoo design and placement is more a reflection of personal style, values, and individuality.

Whether it’s a mandala, zodiac sign, skull, butterfly, or any of the other designs mentioned, they can all be worn by both men and women. The key is to choose a design that resonates with you and aligns with your personal aesthetic. Remember, a tattoo is a form of self-expression and should represent who you are or something meaningful to you.

Conclusion

Exploring the world of behind-the-ear tattoos for men opens up a realm of endless creativity and personal expression. As we have seen, the options are diverse, from mandala designs and zodiac signs to minimalist and colorful choices. However, as you embark on this exciting journey, it is important to be mindful of certain considerations.

Tattooing, especially in sensitive areas like behind the ear, does involve some degree of pain and risk of inflammation. It is crucial to ensure that the tattoo artist you choose is highly skilled and observes stringent hygiene practices. Remember, the beauty of a tattoo lies not just in its design but also in its execution.

While some designs, such as the inverted cross, might be perceived as controversial, it’s important to understand that a tattoo is a deeply personal decision. Respect for diversity of expression should guide us, and we should not let societal norms limit our choices unduly.

In conclusion, behind-the-ear tattoos for men offer a unique platform to display your personality and aesthetic preferences. It is a space that invites artistic expression in subtle, yet impactful ways. Armed with the insights and inspirations presented in this blog, you are now better prepared to make an informed decision. Remember, your tattoo will be a part of you – choose wisely and wear it with pride.

feature image from Pinterest