I have gotten my first six tattoos within the span of two years. Getting tattoos started off as something I always knew I wanted to do, but now has become an artistic collection of memories I carry and continuously add too. As someone who does a lot of art for both income and enjoyment, I have high respect for tattoo artists and the industry. I have found it so inspiring not only as an art form but as a sense of human connection. I think the entire tattoo process is sacred and beautiful, it’s intimate, personable, connecting, and can be a great method of self care. The artist gets to not only express their passion but also help their clients express their own, permanently. I think it’s also so special that historically, tattoos have always been soulful and demonstrative. In even ancient society, tattoos have marked cultural relevance, therapeutic pain management, spiritual ties, and social status. Today tattoos still hold various meanings for everyone, whether it’s deeply rooted in reasoning or a random flash piece, it’s still art and it’s still a reflection of sacred permanence.Â
Within the past year there has been a rise on social media regarding tattoo regret and laser removal. As laser removal is a relatively new thing, its pulled conversations regarding tattoo regret with it. Of course, society and trends are constantly shifting. We can observe slight shifts in conservative or modern frames on fashion; language, makeup, social roles, and even factors like tattoos. Lately there has been some media remarks on trends leaning less towards contemporary framework and more towards modest, conservative ideology. For example, the “clean girl aesthetic” became especially popular, taking higher stands compared to flashy or messy makeup of the early 2000s. We can also see this theme in recent fashion trends of long skirts, unique silhouettes, neutral colors, and more minimalist leaning styles. Personally, I do not find myself getting consumed in microtrends and I can observe these shifts without feeling like they impact my personal style. However, it is interesting how society slowly can morph and influence fashion and appearance in seemingly small ways. This principle as a whole could be an entire analyzation and reflection of these impactful shifts in culture and society. However, I do think the ease into minimalism within current years has had an impact on tattoos. Therefore, the popularity in laser removal in intersection with cultural shifts has made people begin to wonder if they regret their tattoos.Â
Tiktok especially has helped provoke discussion on tattoo regret and removal. Some creators make tattoo tours discussing each tattoo, their meaning, and their next line ups. Yet some take their viewers on a vlog of their laser session and encourage others to question before getting new ink. Furthermore, there has also been the recent overuse in comments of, “wait until your frontal lobe is developed” or “wait until after your twenties to get tattoos.” The common theme is not everyone has the same opinions on tattoos in general, the age, the design choices, and recently,  removal. Although tattoos have always been controversial in work, in religion, attractiveness, and in style choice, the media has definitely stirred things up lately. I think up until recently, society was becoming more accepting of tattoos. Tattoos rose in popularity in recent years, and due to that new contemporary styles were born. People explored different methods of tattooing, trying various artists, and even playing with personal incorporation like linocut or handwriting. Somewhere along the line, people began to regret their collections. This regret was followed by media coverage which has now created a flux in opinion within the tattoo community. Not only is it potentially scaring people off from getting tattoos, but it is also making people question if they’ll eventually regret their choices.Â
Tattoo regret stems from a lot of different reasons. Some people find tattoos trashy and they don’t want them visible on something “clean” like their wedding day. Others tattoo something that they no longer want attachment to, like names past their popularity or outdated interests. Recently due to the rise of microtrends and tattoo trends in general, many don’t feel connected to their choices. Many have clung to “Pinterest tattoos” mindlessly searching for “cute” ideas on their feeds and getting the designs spontaneously. Yet as someone who has six, I understand how getting tattoos is addicting. Overall I understand why people may regret or want to remove their tattoos, especially since removal is more accessible right now. However, I think the media could taint or ruin the beauty of collecting tattoos through its judgment and misinformation.Â
As I mentioned I think the entire symbolism of tattoos is beautiful and timeless. Equally, I think there is a certain beauty in outgrowing tattoos. I know this is controversial because many people grow to hate their permanent choices. However, I think tattoos are storytellers and the media is walking a fragile line of ruining this. Do I think everyone should run and go get 5 random tattoos that they know they’ll regret every few months- no. However, I do think it’s okay to choose something and not feel connected to it forever. Personally, I have chosen my tattoos as pieces of me that I feel will always be connected to. The images are embedded in precious memories or significant symbols within my life. That is the beautiful part of getting tattooed. Whether you immediately go into the choice feeling connected, or you get something that’s cute off a whim—they still begin to tell a story. Not only through the image/script itself, but as a reflection of that version of yourself.Â
Tattoos mean something different for everyone and that flexibility is a reflection of authenticity.  Everyone has their own personal beliefs regarding tattoos, and all art will of course bring controversy. I think it’s important that society continues to explore their essence and own individuality. It is natural to cling to the beliefs or actions of others, it’s human. Tattooing is an outlet artistically, therapeutically, and professionally, I think it is beautiful that it can look different for everyone. If you have a lot of meaningful tattoos, random flash ones, just are getting started, or absolutely hate tattoos in general– it’s a mirror for storytelling. Tattoos have always told stories, and I hope as a society we continue to let them.Â