The 4 Situations Where Removing a Tattoo is Your Best Option

Posted on: 8 January 2018

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Nobody expects to change their mind about a tattoo, assuming that they'll be happy for their choice of design to stay on their skin for life. Unfortunately, people and circumstances change, and that ink you got some time ago might not be the source of pride it once was.

The good news is that, nowadays, there are options for dealing with the problem, like laser tattoo removal. But the process shouldn't be taken lightly; although it's effective in most people, it's not a simple case of quickly zapping off a tattoo and being left with bare, smooth skin.

To help you decide whether or not to go ahead with the procedure, here are the situations where tattoo removal is often the best course of action.

When it commemorates a former relationship

This is an obvious source of tattoo regret, often referenced in film and television. In the throes of an exciting relationship, it seems like you'll be together forever. Unfortunately, relationships don't always work out that way, and many people are left with a permanent reminder of times they'd rather forget, like the name of an ex.

Needless to say, this is something that can be difficult to explain to future partners, and it's liable to bring your mood down whenever you catch sight of it.

When it limits your work prospects

As tattoos have become more common, many employers have relaxed the rules about them. There are still some situations where ink can make finding a job difficult, though.

The first potential problem is the location of a tattoo. Anything on the hands, face, or neck is likely to always be visible, and these positions also have negative connotations for some. Tattoos on the lower part of the arm are also sometimes not allowed in certain jobs.

The second issue is any tattoo that's offensive or controversial. Many designs would make it hard to find work even in positions where tattoos are normally no problem.

When it represents regret

Tattooing in some prisons is almost a rite of passage, but if you've previously served a prison sentence and you want to put it behind you, those inked reminders can make it difficult.

A tattoo can also be a distressing memento of former allegiances or opinions, which you want to keep firmly in the past.

When it's simply embarrassing

When people are young, they don't always make the wisest decisions. This means some people end up with tattoos that are silly, childish, or were not done professionally. It's hard to be taken seriously until you get them removed, and being able to wear short sleeves again is always a plus.