The rise of the Australian tattoo industry over the last decade has been remarkable.
New tattoos and tattoo regrets in Australia are continuing to increase annually.
Surveys suggest the number of people with at least one tattoo in Australia was 19% in 2016 and 20% in 2018 and the most recent survey claims as many as 43 per cent of Australians now have at least one tattoo.
In comparison, Italy has 48% of the population with some form of tattoo body art followed by Sweden with 47% and America at 46%.
Regrets.
Approximately 34% of all Australians with tattoos have tattoo regrets with 14% considering tattoo removal.
Regrets can be the result of a significant life event like a divorce or the death of a loved one. Most are ex partners names or similar that are no longer of any relevance.
In general, regrets are simply not enough thinking about the reason for getting a tattoo.
Young and impulsive is the biggest reason for regret. Others may see their tattoo as no longer relevant and no longer relates to their values.
A change of job situations can be attributed to tattoo removal. Especially in conservative industries but this reason is decreasing as tattoos are becoming more acceptable in our society.
The remainder is of course the poorly done tattoo that just looks plain bad.
One third or 1 in 3 Australians with tattoos say that they have regrets to some extent getting a tattoo.
One in 7 or 14% have started tattoo removal or are at least looking into removal.
Tattoo regret is a common experience, but it does not have to be a permanent one.
There are a number of things you can do to cope with tattoo regret.
1. Talking to a therapist can help.
2. Covering up the tattoo with clothing.
3. Getting a tattoo modification with a better artist.
4. Just accepting it for what it is.
If you are considering getting a tattoo, it is important to do your research. Make sure that you are getting something that you will be happy with for the rest of your life.
A tattoo for the sake of getting a tattoo or just to get some ink, brings regrets and disappointment.
A few of the more genuine reasons to get tattooed are listed below.
Inspiration to achieve.
Acknowledge goals completed.
Telling a life story.
In memory of a loved one.
A commitment to a loved one.
Commitment to a life style.
In memory of a pet.
Or for mental support.
If you are considering getting a tattoo, be sure to do your research.
Be very sure that you are getting something that you will be happy with for the rest of your life.
Always get good quality art from a recognized tattoo artist and shop around. Whatever you get, you will have it for a long time so put some thought into it.
