What if I regret my tattoo?

Question

I am not planning on getting a tattoo anytime soon, but I'd like to get one someday. I'd want it to be really small and something that is very meaningful. I have a couple ideas (1 I've been liking for about 6 months). My parents don't care either way as long as it's what I truly want - my dad actually has tattoos so it's not like they both can't let me get one!

I'm just worried if I'll regret my tattoo (even if it's small) since I change my mind often and go through mini phases. Also my dad says that he sometimes likes his tattoos but other days he sometimes regrets getting them. So, how did you guys decide that this tattoo was really for you? Have you ever dealt with regret?

Thanks!

? · Answer

If you think you're going to love your tattoo, you're most likely not going to regret it. 
If you do end up with regrets then you can always cover it with another tattoo, or remove it. Tattoos do hurt, but I've never dealt with tattoo regret.

mortonc57 · Answer

At least you are thinking ahead...you may try putting a temp tattoo on the spot you are thinking of getting it. Visibility is key, both to others and yourself, plus if it's small it's so much easier to hide/cover/remove.

I didn't think twice; "Large Playboy bunnies on *both* arms ?!? Sure...let's go !!"

? · Answer

Consider that there will be times and places where you'd rather not have your tattoo on display and choose it's placement accordingly. Your chest, your upper thighs, for example are usually out of sight while your wrists, neck, lower arms are often exposed. Choose a placement where you don't need special clothing to appear in court, to be in wedding photos, to have job interviews, where the ordinary clothing appropriate to such occasions will be sufficient to keep the tattoo covered if you'd rather not show it.

Choose a tattoo that could be masked with a cover up tattoo if you change your mind.

Do a lot of research and deliberation before getting inked. Is that really a Chinese character for perseverance? Is there some symbolism to the design that you aren't aware of? When you are 30 years older, will the design seem silly or dated?

What if I regret my tattoo?

3 Answers