As tattoos become more common, so does regret. Across Ireland, Germany, and the UK, dermatology clinics are reporting record numbers of young professionals seeking tattoo removal.
Doctors, lawyers, pilots, and corporate employees are lining up for PicoSure laser treatments, which can take up to two years and cost thousands. The reason? Tattoos chosen during teenage years or university no longer fit the image required for high-level careers.
Dr. Sarah O’Neill, a Dublin dermatologist, says her clinic now sees “10 tattoo removal clients per day, compared to only 2 or 3 five years ago.” Many patients cite the need for a “fresh canvas” as they shift into adulthood and professional roles.
This growing trend also reflects the social evolution of tattoo culture: while tattoos are mainstream, career-focused Europeans are increasingly selective about the ink they keep. As Dr. O’Neill explained, “Tattoo regret is real—but so is tattoo evolution. People want their bodies to reflect who they are today, not who they were at 18.”
Leave a Reply