Thinking of getting a tattoo? You’re not alone — but you’re also not alone if you end up regretting it.
Tattoos are meant to be permanent statements of identity, love, or creativity. But as we grow and change, what once felt meaningful can start to feel like a mistake. Whether it was an impulsive choice, a name of a now-ex, or simply a design that didn’t age well, regret is more common than you might think.
How Many People Regret Their Tattoos?
According to a 2021 survey by Advanced Dermatology, nearly 1 in 4 people with tattoos (23%) have tattoo regret. Another study from the UK found that 78% of those who got their first tattoo before the age of 21 later regretted it, with names of ex-partners being the most regretted tattoos.
In fact, the most commonly cited reasons for tattoo regret include:
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Getting a tattoo too young or impulsively
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Tattooing a partner's name and then breaking up
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Designs that felt trendy at the time but later seem cringey
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Poor placement or execution
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Not thinking it through enough
Removing a tattoo isn’t easy either — laser tattoo removal can take 6–12 sessions, costs hundreds to thousands of dollars, and often leaves scars or discoloration.
So How Can You Avoid Tattoo Regret? Try Before You Commit.
Here’s where temporary tattoos step in as your smartest first move.
With TIDES waterproof temporary tattoos, you can:
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Test the placement: See how a tattoo looks on your skin — wrist, collarbone, back, or ankle — before going permanent.
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Experiment with designs: Try different styles, colors, and sizes to find what truly fits your vibe.
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Avoid heartbreak ink: Not sure if you’ll still be in love next year? A temporary tattoo lets you skip the lifetime reminder.
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Live the look without the pain: Get the aesthetic, skip the needles.
Our tattoos last 5-21 days, are non-toxic, and come in fashion-forward, art-inspired styles. Think of them as your personal tattoo trial — commitment-free, regret-free.
Inked or Not — Make It a Choice, Not a Mistake
Tattoo regret is real, but it doesn’t have to be your story. Whether you're just curious or seriously considering your first ink, temporary tattoos let you explore the world of body art without the lifelong consequences.
Try it. Love it. Or wipe it away. That’s the freedom you deserve.
Browse the full collection at tides.co.nz