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How I accepted mine was remembering that there are people that wake up without the entire limb. I couldn't imagine. Im lucky to have these arms, as much as I regret the decisions I've made.
Yes you’re 100% right. I definitely could be going thru a lot worse than just tattoo regret, so I am very thankful to have all my limbs at least. It still sucks tho just cuz it’s such a difficult battle with your own self. I’m trying to be optimistic tho, appreciate your reply.
I'm not sure if this will be helpful but here it goes:
One thing I've seen a lot of people say that's become a bit of a mantra for me is "your tattoos don't define you". It is the case for you - this tattoo is not the summary of your entire self and should not be given the power to control you. It's ink in skin :) that's all it is. (I'm not trying to diminish what you're feeling, but reframe it) You're so young, there's so much life to live.
Put your hand in your pocket and look out at the world. It continues regardless of this tattoo, there are endless things to be seen, to do, relationships to enjoy. It would be a damn shame if the world got to miss out on you because of a tattoo. It's mind over matter at this point - your physical form is only one aspect of you :) I hope you find the strength in you to overcome it mentally.
On a more practical note, if you are even just able to do one removal session at a time every once in a while elsewhere instead of dropping $4k all at once, you may be able to very slowly fade it until its gone. :) It's gonna take years anyway so starting the process now may set you up pretty well to have it gone while you're still quite young. I'd recommend just chipping away at removal before getting anything else. I'm in my 30s and now headed down my removal journey for tattoos I thought I'd never hate.
Hey thank you so much for this, it means a lot seriously. You’re 100% right tho, I can’t let ink on my skin control me & my mental health. It just sucks cuz as much as I try to not let it get to me, the feeling of regret just comes out of nowhere, no matter what I’m doing. I think I’m slowly getting a little better, but I still have days where it’s all I can think about. I would be down to just do a session of laser here & there, but I don’t have a car atm, and the nearest studio is like 2 cities away from me. I’m currently saving up for a car, so once I get that I’ll most definitely keep that option in mind. I wish you luck with your removal journey, hope it’s going good so far !
I'm 48 and just started my removal journey. I'm a single mom and it IS expensive. And mine is huge, 4 times covered up fucking nightmare. I know they offer payment plans. But 350 a month or whatever is too much for me, decade's older than you. I'd do what the other person suggested, purchase a session at a time, drink loads of water and sweat! Also, I shopped around. I did do a consult at removery, but I ended up going with a small skin and laser studio that once in while ran specials, so I waited and I bought buy 3 get 1 free. 2400. Removery did quote me almost 5k, and sure it was "til its gone" but I felt better committing to a less amount of money since I was just starting. I gave her 500 up front as a deposit. Then we worked out what I would pay, in 3 installments. I fucking hate hating this tattoo, I have so many others but it sucks not wearing tank tops and stuff because I'm embarrassed for people to know I paid for this crap tattoo to be on my body. It's really hard on us mentally. I feel like I'd feel better with a half blasted off tattoo then what I have now. At least yours is very well done, and hand tattoo wear REALLY fast because we're always washing our hands and stuff. With all that black I bet in one of 2 sessions you'd see a big difference. And it's best to wait between anyways. Just know you're not alone, as you can see from your thread here!
Hey, first of all I'm sorry you're going through this. Please try to be gentle with yourself, we're all trying this life thing for the first time and we all make decisions we regret. Experimenting is part of being human, sometimes it pays off and sometimes it doesn't. Try and accept your prior actions and simply try to remember how you felt when faced with a similar situation next time. Which brings me to the following: It's going to be worth saving up $4000 for the removal rather than spending more on more tattoos. Save and start a package asap. They will also have black Friday sales.
Once you start removal you will likely feel a little better.
Thank you, I really appreciate your advice. Yea I’m trying not to be so hard on myself, it’s definitely a battle for sure. The main thing stopping me from starting laser, is that I don’t have a car atm and the nearest studio is like 2 cities away from me. So even if I had the $, I wouldn’t have a way to get down there unfortunately. I’m currently saving for a car, so once I get that I’ll save up more $ for removal if that’s where I’m leaning still.
It is a battle all of us here deal with, no matter the tattoo style, placement, size or shape. You're not alone, especially in this sub, it's full of good people supporting each other through this process so you're in the right place.
Can someone else take you to your first few laser appointments? You could get started while you save for the car this way, and get some progress going quicker.
I’m so sorry. It won’t be on you forever. Can you go to a place that pays by the session rather than package? That way you don’t have to pay upfront.
I can’t believe a tattoo artist would even do this as a first tattoo. Ethical artists are *supposed* to reject hands, face, and neck for first tattoos.
This. The two artists I go to (they do different styles) will both immediately say no to anything you can't cover with typical clothing until you have at MINIMUM 2 full sleeves done. Even then they've told me they said no to people because of a gut feeling
Yeaa I kind of fucked up with going to this guy, I wish he was a more traditional artist that wouldn’t be down to do hands, face or neck for their first ink. He did ask me if I was sure that this is what I wanted for my first one, and I told him I was sure. I just wasn’t in the greatest state of mind at the time , and thought this is what I really wanted. It’s crazy how much a persons taste can change in just 1 or 2 years.
You have to do your research first my man. My first tattoo, (which was my whole left arm, you can see it on my profile) I had just moved across the country. Called the closest tattoo shop and the lady on the phone said "that is Jason's favourite style tattoo" Told him what I wanted, he drew it up and I said let's get to work. Did I have some regrets at first? Absolutely. My mom was fuckin pissed. I LOVE my tattoos now. There's no better feeling than older people asking why you have it and you have a story to tell them.
I wouldn't be getting more tattoos as a coping mechanism. Your hand is pretty much tattooed forever. Find a good artist, think of a tattoo with meaning and hope they can cover it up. Just my opinion
Thank you so much, I appreciate your reply. Yea my local Removery will allow me to do 1 session at a time if I wanted to, it’s just that it’s a decent drive away and I don’t have a car atm. Currently saving up for one tho, so once I get my car, I’ll keep removal in mind. As far as the artist goes, I completely agree with you. I really wish I would’ve went to a more traditional artist that would’ve talked some sense into me & not let me do this to myself. I know I can’t completely blame the artist, cuz he didn’t force me to get it, but at the same time I feel like he should’ve made a little more effort to encourage me to get something on my arm at least.
Cant believe a tattoo artist let you do that as a first tattoo. Sorry you’re going through the regret. I wouldnt get more tattoos to distract from it at this point. That only works if you have a lot of tattoos, and that’ll be costly again and might involve more regret somewhere down the line.
I’d start the removal process sooner than later, you have a long journey ahead of you. Its been the biggest test of patience for me, but id wish id starter sooner than i did in the end. You can do less sessions if money is tight, it will still fade but just take longer.
Yea I know, I can’t believe it myself. I wish I would’ve went to a more traditional artist, who would’ve denied it & talked some sense into me. But it is what it is I suppose. But yea I wish I could start removal right now, but I don’t have a car to make it there all the time, and would rather not have to rely on others to get me there. Saving up for one atm, so when I get my car I’ll definitely keep laser In mind.
Just curious (no judgement), did the artist say anything to you about your first tattoo being on your hand? Many (reputable) artists that I know won’t even tattoo someone’s hand unless they are covered elsewhere. Especially on a person who is still very young. With that said, it’s a nicely done tattoo so it doesn’t look bad, though I understand how it can be jarring to see yourself like this now and miss your old skin.
I’m not sure if this will be helpful for you, but what made me not feel bad about my tattoos I didn’t like is realizing that it’s just skin. I’m still me with or without the tattoos and as much as I’d like to go back in time and just not get them, that’s not possible so there’s no need to dwell on it. What is it about the tattoo that you don’t like? Is it the artwork itself or that it’s not what you’re used to seeing when you look at your hand? Or both?
Also, I wouldn’t recommend getting more tattoos yet. I actually said this earlier today (in a totally different context but still applies haha), don’t make permanent life decisions before 25! Your brain is still developing and you’ll avoid a lot of heartache. Not all of it but hopefully some of it haha.
Thank you so much, I appreciate your response. You’re right tho, it’s just skin, so I shouldn’t be beating myself & dwell on it as much as I do. Still working on that tho lol. The artist I went to did ask me If I was positive that this is what I wanted for my first one, and I told him that I was. I was 19 at the time tho, so I feel like no matter how good I explained to him that I was sure this is what I wanted, he shouldn’t of listened to me. I really wish he would’ve made more effort than he did, to talk some sense in me & encourage me to start on my arm at least. I can’t put all the blame on him obviously, but at the same time I think it was pretty fucked up of him to be so easily willing to permanently ink my hand at such a young age. I did like my tattoo for some time, but now I think my taste has changed over the past 2 years, and I don’t find it aesthetically pleasing to my eye. I think the main reason I don’t like it as much anymore is because it covers my whole hand. I feel like if I would’ve at least went with a design that wasn’t so massive, and left a good chunk of open skin, I might not hate it as much. Sorry for the novel haha
I know you said you can’t afford removal right now, but maybe just start putting away $ to start maybe next year? It has a ton of shading and would fade a lot after just one session.
I have a tattoo that I hated, after one session it’s much lighter and looks way less prominent on my skin. I’m happy with how it looks until I can save more money. I just want to give you hope that maybe partial removal would give you solace (at least for right now)
It’s faded a ton too since the comparison photo (check it out in my profile)
Hey I appreciate ur reply, but yea I definitely will need to save up more $. I don’t have a car atm, so I need to get that first. I’m glad your removal is going well for you!
If you hate it at 21 you're definitely going to hate it at 25... 30... 50. I highly highly HIGHLY recommend not getting more ink if you dislike your current tattoos because what you're actually doing is the "kick the can" method.
It seems like the only thing in your way is the price tag which honestly is the best problem because you have time on your side. Don't despair you're still just a kid.
I got mine when I was 19-20 and hated them by 21. I waited, wore my sunscreen, kept them covered as much as possible (sun damage makes removal slower). Now I'm 27, making good money and can afford $5000 for tattoo removal without breaking the bank. (I have several large very colorful tats hence the price tag.)
The good news? You'll get to exactly where you want to be. The bad news? It's going to take a while.
My advice?
1. Wear sunscreen!!! Especially with a hand tattoo as you can't really cover it easily. Mineral is best but you do you.
2. Break down your savings goal into bite sized pieces. Open a separate bank account. Set a realistic savings goal, it could be $10 a month any amount is great.
3. Keep fit and eat healthy. Limit alcohol consumption, eat lots of veggies and limit junk food. Your body is already trying to break down your tattoo (why old tatts looks smudgy) the healthier you are from now moving forward will only help you remove them faster.
4. Don't beat yourself up you've done nothing irreversible. Depression is a little bitch and makes you feel like you're always going to feel like complete crap. It's not even 1% true. You got this. Baby steps until you're outside the tunnel and one day you'll be amazed at how far you've come. (:
Thank you brother I appreciate that foreal. What you said is definitely a good idea tho. I’m currently saving up for a car so I can even get myself to removal appointments if that’s where I’m leaning still in the future. I just kind of feel stuck, because even if I do go thru with removal, I’m not sure if I’ll have much luck. I’ve seen people with the tiniest ring finger tattoos that barely come out after multiple sessions, so I don’t know if I should pursue that or not. I love all my other tattoos, it’s just my hand that I still have mixed feelings about
There's so many factors that go into how well a tattoo will fade. Im by no means an expert but even the solid black doesn't look super deep in the skin, so I think it's definitely feasible for you. The tattoo looks like a good quality and well done imo. Very even shading which is good. I see you already have some blurring in the edges of the fingers, another good sign for removal. Maybe invest on some sick ass leather gloves and see if just not looking at it makes you feel better. Out of sight out of mind.
Save for the important stuff now, and when you're on your feet and life is treating you a little better than the chaos of your early 20s you can see how you feel. A lot can happen in a few years, keep your chin up! we're rooting for you!!
I appreciate you man, thanks for your support. But yea life’s been kinda hectic lately, still figuring a lot of shit out. I’m trying my best to think of it like “you live & you learn” as they say, and use this experience to make smarter tattoo decisions for the future. When I have all my shit settled & am in a decent spot financially, I will definitely keep removal in mind.
Damn I’m sorry to hear that, I hope you have luck in possibly getting a cover up, or removal if that’s what ur looking to do. May I ask what you ended up going with? And if you got the one I have, do you think you’d still be regretting it?
Don’t do more tattoos! Trust me. I’ve been doing tattoo removal for a year and a half. It’s a lengthy process but it’s worth it!
My laser center also allows you to buy one laser session at a time, or a few sessions at a time and/or a full package.
A lot of places will work with you on price and financing.
Also, there are laser tattoo removal schools that offer amazingly low prices on sessions for students who are in school for tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal students need to practice! Any laser tattoo removal school would love to take on a big project like yours.
Tattoo artists love to build portfolios and showcase their work.
Laser tattoo removal centers also like to build portfolios and showcase how well they can remove some of the toughest tattoos.
Stick with it! It’s not permanent it’s just a process and a project! You are young, you can do it! It’s just going to take determination, patience and time.
At least the tattoo seems a high quality one. Well done and quite beautiful.
I didn’t read everything in the comments.
My 2 cents: don’t do other tattoos just to divert attention. What is it’s worse? Try some non permanent ones maybe. To remove mine I went to small shops, people that are starting. Current one offers 50% discount if I let him take pictures and put them on the net for references. I’ve been quoted as expensive as 400$/ session, currently paying 150. It might take 4-5 sessions more at the end, but it’s convenient to me the price I’m paying at the moment.
I have some tattoos that I regret right now as well.
I can relate to a lot of what you said. It’s super difficult.
One thing I’m doing is focusing on what I CAN CONTROL such as working hard in the gym and staying as healthy as possible.
Don’t get more tattoos to drown out the ones you don’t like. Trust me, I’m 35 and I’ve done this. It’s not a great idea.
DM me if you want to talk and keep your head up champ.
Thank you brotha, I appreciate that foreal. But yes it’s definitely not easy to deal with, shit fucking sucks. I definitely could be living a much more healthy lifestyle tho, I never workout & just sit in my room and play video games all day depressed asf. I’ve been working night shifts for about 2 years now, and I feel like I barely have energy to do jack shit when I wake up. One of my coworkers has offered me to start doing to the gym with him, so I should take that up.
imagine you get your body game tight.
you get in the best shape ever... you might think of your tattoo less because you will look great.
idk, this is what i try to focus on.
Hi! Yes! Go to the gym. Work out. Multiple studies have shown the powerful link between the mind and body. When you exercise your body gets to detoxify, your hormones even out, your cortisol ( stress hormone) lowers,you get a release of feel good hormones AND you feel in control of something. Not mindlessly playing video games. I speak from experience. Depression is no joke! Good luck OP
I know you're not asking for removal advice so ignore it if you want to. But honestly what I would do? Go out into the sun. Don't cover it up. Let it fade over the next few years. And once its more faded, the €€ will be lower. In the meantime, you can save up. Or, get one or two sessions a year. I got a tattoo on an impulse when I was 16/17 on my lower arm and I'm now 19 almost 20 removing it. I can't afford packages and I sure as hell can't afford many appointments in a year. So I will have one, or two appointments a year. For me it's more affordable that way and I didn't want to wait so long to save up for all the costs.
Also, I wanted to get a lot more tattoos on my arm in order to like the one I'm removing right now. But I'm very happy that I didn't do that. I have one more on my upper back but that's it. I don't think it's the right motive to get other tattoos (unless you are really 100% sure you want to get them and it isn't just about that one tat). Because of this entire process I think I will lay off on getting big tattoos for a couple of years. Also, because of how hard I tried to convince myself I did really love it, I sometimes still have doubts in the removal process. It's not a straight line. But thats just me. What I'm trying to say is please just really think everything through. And maybe talk to someone about it (like a therapist)
I appreciate the info man, and yea that’s not a bad idea. I’ll probably just let it fade & if I still feel this way years down the line, I’ll get another quote for removal. It’s such a big commitment to go thru with removal, so it’s pretty stressful. I also vape so that doesn’t help either. As far as getting more tattoos, I feel like it would help a little bit just so I have other artwork to look at. I will definitely think about it. Good luck to you on your removal journey tho.
Thank you, I appreciate your response. But yea the artist I went to did ask me if I was sure this is what I wanted for my first one, and I told him I was positive. But I was 19 at the time, and I honestly don’t think any 19 year old truly knows what they want permanently inked on their skin. With that being said, I really wish he would’ve made a little more effort to try to talk some sense into me, and that it’s not a good idea, and to just start on my arm at least. I can’t put all the blame on him, but if he has any self respect, he should not be cool with blasting a kids hand for their first tat.
I would suggest changing the narrative in your mind. When you have a thought or feeling that negativity relates to that tattoo, begin thinking of the things you’re grateful for. This works better for me than thinking about how I have it better than others because that is always a very fleeting solution for me. I’d also like to point out that while you may not be able to remove it now, you very well may be able to in the future. Knowing this won’t be a feeling you can’t seem to do anything about for the rest of your life may bring you some peace.
Thank you, I appreciate that. You’re definitely right tho, it’s just mind over matter. It’s just so fucking hard to have to battle with your own mind, and constantly deal with random subconscious thoughts that enter my mind out of nowhere. I’m slowly making peace with it, but I’m hoping I can just accept it and be happy again sooner than later
You don’t need to pay for removal monthly. A tattoo very likely will continue to subtly fade for even upward to a year after a session. While you can do it monthly, I sorta suspect it’s better to son them out a bit. I bet it happen faster hitting it every month, and maybe the prior months session is still doing something while you continue with sessions and it’s all adding up, but I intend to down my out a bit. Go easy on my lymphatic system, and assume that one session will amount to months of fading.
Honestly, I think there are so many people in your position! There’s nothing wrong with your tattoo. My son has sleeve regret. I feel awful for you both! But at the end of the day, are you healthy? Happy? I think that’s what’s most important. You could have it removed also. I think it looks cool!
I'm an old dude, and I've noticed that people who aren't happy, aren't happy regardless of the situation. Don't beat yourself up and think you would have been happy had you not got this tat, because you probably would have obsessed over something else in its place. No offense by the way, just my observation.
Now, what to do? Don't get more tattoos for one. Second, if money is tight, maybe just work at getting the parts removed which are in plain sight. Lots of professional jobs require long sleeves, so for now, there's no need to worry about the arm parts. Also, tattoo removal is sloooooow, so even an appointment every six months is probably fine (and minimizes the chances of wasting money on unnecessary sessions).
And finally, to hopefully make you feel less alone in your misery, I'll share my sad-sack story. I have a tattoo on my arm which I got when I was dealing with a brutal child access case. My ex had lots of money for lawyers and we had never been married, which if you know anything about Canadian Family Court System, does not work in the favor of the male. Long story short, every time I look at my arm, it is a reminder of that traumatic and terribly sad chapter of my life.
In short, deal with the parts that affect your job prospects (and dating life?). Don't ruminate over the rest, because it's done and worrying about it won't speed up the removal process.
I am so sorry you feel this way.
probably not what you want to hear but I would HIGHLY advise you start the removal process as soon as possible and do not get any more tattoos for now.
As many people on this group, I started with a stupid tattoo that I ended up regretting, then covered it up with a blackout tattoo, then decided to get a whole sleeve to make the blackout tattoo stand out less. now after a decade of wearing long sleeves I am going through the very painful and long process of removing all of my tattoos and REALLY regretting not starting sooner, when there would be only one stupid star tattoos to remove instead!
I know how you feel, I felt the exact same way at 21 and now at 30 I really regret not starting the removal process sooner. if you start now, your tattoos will be gone by the time you are 24.
Hi OP! I’m someone who is currently in the process of getting tattoos removed. Just know that tattoo regret is real. However, all the other positive comments on this thread are real too. Loving and accepting yourself with your flaws and all is one of the most beautiful things you could ever do for your self-esteem. Also, if you follow
R/tattooremoval, you will see a lot of people get their tattoos removed one session at a time and wait and extended period of time for their body to get rid of the ink. I would say just do one session at a time and wait 4-6 months between sessions. You would be so surprised at how your body works to get rid of the ink. I’m going to LaserAway and they quoted $2000 for 10 sessions. I’m going to take a long break after my fifth session which is coming up and see how my results are. Good luck with everything and please remember this tattoo is NOT who you are! 💜
That tattoo looks so cool. I would say everything happens for a reason. You were destined to get that tattoo and you did. It was not a mistake, it was fate
I got a horribly done coverup two weeks ago over a tattoo that was beautiful just didn’t like the angle… well it ended up being a big black blob that you can’t even tell what it was supposed to be. I blamed the artist and then myself then the artist… but at the end of the day I learned to take it as a learning experience and just start the removal process once it’s healed. After two weeks and changing my thought process I honestly forget about it and it’s right where I see it on my forearm… point is what’s done and done and just think in 2 years it’ll be very faded if not gone but you have to think of the process of removal. Like 3 months from now it’ll be more faded then now then 3 months after that and so on. Learn from it and move on my friend. After all like others said it’s just ink in your skin
Have you considered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for this? It might also help with other aspects in your life.
It helped me during a very intense time of my life where I’ve been dealing with a plethora of difficulties.
This hand of yours will someday turn out it’s golden. It will motivate you towards moving forward, achieving goals, getting yourself out of your current dark night of the soul.
The car you’re saving up for, make it a crowdfunding thing. If you want to go for laser, speak to others about it, let them be part of your process, so you don’t go through it alone.
If you decide not to spend money on removal, spend it on self-improvement, working out, healthy lifestyle. You’ll be amazed about your potential and what you can achieve.
You’ve got this tat for a reason. Maybe it’s your journey to find out why.
Best of luck to you!
I really appreciate this. I will definitely have to look into therapy tho. I really hope everything happens for a reason, even the stupid decisions we all make. When I got this tattoo, I chose it over a design that actually had meaning to it, for only God knows why. That’s one of the main reasons I beat myself up so much, like why the fuck didn’t I just get the original design I had a gut feeling to get, but still got this anyway. Can’t wrap my mind around it. Anyways thank you again for your advice <3
I had that with my tattoo mishap as well. I had a coverup done last year that didn’t turn out well. All because I couldn’t say no to the artist. I couldn’t stick to my initial plan and idea.
I’ve sent them a file with my inspiration and tats I really loved a month before the sesh and I later found out they didn’t even open the file.
The design was done on the spot and I didn’t like the first attempt, so they started over. The second one was okay and I thought, let’s do it.
But they suggested to go bigger. I didn’t want this but they kept persuading me so I went along. When it was done I instantly felt gnarly about it.
The tat gave me panic attacks for about 6 months and I kept asking myself how did I not stand up for what I wanted? Where was my backbone? It was a harsh lesson that taught me never ever to back off from myself and my wants and needs again.
I’ve written down my thoughts I had about my tat and that helped as well. Another thing that helps is that I get compliments for it from other people, which is funny because I see it differently haha. But it helps me think that the way people see me is much softer and gentler than I see myself.
We sometimes do things we regret, that’s just our nature. Learning from it and growing past it, is a humbling and enriching process. ✌️
Damn yea that sounds pretty similar to my situation. I didn’t stick with my initial idea, & didn’t stand up for myself to the artist when I had a weird gut feeling about it, but went through with it anyway. I’m sorry you had to go through this shit as well, it’s one of the worst feelings. You’re right tho, at least we both learned to go with what we truly want deep down for the future & to stick up for ourselves. Unfortunately it had to be the hard way, but at the end of the day it is what it is I suppose. I wish you the best of luck tho, & hope you’re doing better than you were!
Thanks, I’m a bit better at dealing with it. I’m still figuring out what I want to do with it though.
Hey, but I had a thought about yours. I’ve read in a comment that you’re a gamer. Don’t know if you play Zelda TOTK? But if so, you could totally turn that hand/arm in what Link has going on in TOTK with a good artist. But that’s only if you won’t go for laser.
Hi I I know you’re upset about your tattoo but many people, including myself think it’s very attractive❤️But make sure you’re comfortable in
your own skin before you please anyone else. Remember that you come first. Have you thought about a blackout?
Try not to go the route of getting more tattoos to make yourself accept it more. You might have even deeper regrets in 10 years. I would stop tattoos for at least 5 years as you are young, and you can determine if you are a person who even wants to be heavily tattooed forever. I got more to make myself accept my existing ones and I am removing everything now. Just save up the money for a removery package, or you can pay for just one session to get the fading started and then start saving for the package. It’s ok to take long breaks between sessions and it is beneficial to your skin healing.
Personally I’d try to get the hand portion removed. Right at the line under the skull.
Wasn’t sure if it was the hand part that was bothering you but cheaper to start there I guess.
I understand your frustration. I would say do not get more tattoos just to deal with it. You will likely regret those later. My advice is to begin the removal process. You can pay as you go. It will take a while to get through it, so paying a little as you go will be much more tolerable. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Also, your tattoos don’t define you. What you are inside defines you. Show people the real you in how you treat others and how you love your life. ❤️
You can just get it removed. I struggled with this for months until I just accepted that I was getting rid of it. It will take longer and be much more expensive than getting it put on but it's still something that can be undone.
$4000 to remove just ur hand tattoo? go somewhere else removery loves to over charge just for them to barely touch u it’s their thing. depending where u r removery should be the last option
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How I accepted mine was remembering that there are people that wake up without the entire limb. I couldn't imagine. Im lucky to have these arms, as much as I regret the decisions I've made.
Yes you’re 100% right. I definitely could be going thru a lot worse than just tattoo regret, so I am very thankful to have all my limbs at least. It still sucks tho just cuz it’s such a difficult battle with your own self. I’m trying to be optimistic tho, appreciate your reply.
Facts same
You're allowed to feel gratitude for your limbs AND tattoo regret at the same time. I know I sure dim do x
Same
I'm not sure if this will be helpful but here it goes: One thing I've seen a lot of people say that's become a bit of a mantra for me is "your tattoos don't define you". It is the case for you - this tattoo is not the summary of your entire self and should not be given the power to control you. It's ink in skin :) that's all it is. (I'm not trying to diminish what you're feeling, but reframe it) You're so young, there's so much life to live. Put your hand in your pocket and look out at the world. It continues regardless of this tattoo, there are endless things to be seen, to do, relationships to enjoy. It would be a damn shame if the world got to miss out on you because of a tattoo. It's mind over matter at this point - your physical form is only one aspect of you :) I hope you find the strength in you to overcome it mentally. On a more practical note, if you are even just able to do one removal session at a time every once in a while elsewhere instead of dropping $4k all at once, you may be able to very slowly fade it until its gone. :) It's gonna take years anyway so starting the process now may set you up pretty well to have it gone while you're still quite young. I'd recommend just chipping away at removal before getting anything else. I'm in my 30s and now headed down my removal journey for tattoos I thought I'd never hate.
Hey thank you so much for this, it means a lot seriously. You’re 100% right tho, I can’t let ink on my skin control me & my mental health. It just sucks cuz as much as I try to not let it get to me, the feeling of regret just comes out of nowhere, no matter what I’m doing. I think I’m slowly getting a little better, but I still have days where it’s all I can think about. I would be down to just do a session of laser here & there, but I don’t have a car atm, and the nearest studio is like 2 cities away from me. I’m currently saving up for a car, so once I get that I’ll most definitely keep that option in mind. I wish you luck with your removal journey, hope it’s going good so far !
I'm 48 and just started my removal journey. I'm a single mom and it IS expensive. And mine is huge, 4 times covered up fucking nightmare. I know they offer payment plans. But 350 a month or whatever is too much for me, decade's older than you. I'd do what the other person suggested, purchase a session at a time, drink loads of water and sweat! Also, I shopped around. I did do a consult at removery, but I ended up going with a small skin and laser studio that once in while ran specials, so I waited and I bought buy 3 get 1 free. 2400. Removery did quote me almost 5k, and sure it was "til its gone" but I felt better committing to a less amount of money since I was just starting. I gave her 500 up front as a deposit. Then we worked out what I would pay, in 3 installments. I fucking hate hating this tattoo, I have so many others but it sucks not wearing tank tops and stuff because I'm embarrassed for people to know I paid for this crap tattoo to be on my body. It's really hard on us mentally. I feel like I'd feel better with a half blasted off tattoo then what I have now. At least yours is very well done, and hand tattoo wear REALLY fast because we're always washing our hands and stuff. With all that black I bet in one of 2 sessions you'd see a big difference. And it's best to wait between anyways. Just know you're not alone, as you can see from your thread here!
Hey, first of all I'm sorry you're going through this. Please try to be gentle with yourself, we're all trying this life thing for the first time and we all make decisions we regret. Experimenting is part of being human, sometimes it pays off and sometimes it doesn't. Try and accept your prior actions and simply try to remember how you felt when faced with a similar situation next time. Which brings me to the following: It's going to be worth saving up $4000 for the removal rather than spending more on more tattoos. Save and start a package asap. They will also have black Friday sales. Once you start removal you will likely feel a little better.
Thank you, I really appreciate your advice. Yea I’m trying not to be so hard on myself, it’s definitely a battle for sure. The main thing stopping me from starting laser, is that I don’t have a car atm and the nearest studio is like 2 cities away from me. So even if I had the $, I wouldn’t have a way to get down there unfortunately. I’m currently saving for a car, so once I get that I’ll save up more $ for removal if that’s where I’m leaning still.
It is a battle all of us here deal with, no matter the tattoo style, placement, size or shape. You're not alone, especially in this sub, it's full of good people supporting each other through this process so you're in the right place. Can someone else take you to your first few laser appointments? You could get started while you save for the car this way, and get some progress going quicker.
I’m so sorry. It won’t be on you forever. Can you go to a place that pays by the session rather than package? That way you don’t have to pay upfront. I can’t believe a tattoo artist would even do this as a first tattoo. Ethical artists are *supposed* to reject hands, face, and neck for first tattoos.
This. The two artists I go to (they do different styles) will both immediately say no to anything you can't cover with typical clothing until you have at MINIMUM 2 full sleeves done. Even then they've told me they said no to people because of a gut feeling
Yeaa I kind of fucked up with going to this guy, I wish he was a more traditional artist that wouldn’t be down to do hands, face or neck for their first ink. He did ask me if I was sure that this is what I wanted for my first one, and I told him I was sure. I just wasn’t in the greatest state of mind at the time , and thought this is what I really wanted. It’s crazy how much a persons taste can change in just 1 or 2 years.
You have to do your research first my man. My first tattoo, (which was my whole left arm, you can see it on my profile) I had just moved across the country. Called the closest tattoo shop and the lady on the phone said "that is Jason's favourite style tattoo" Told him what I wanted, he drew it up and I said let's get to work. Did I have some regrets at first? Absolutely. My mom was fuckin pissed. I LOVE my tattoos now. There's no better feeling than older people asking why you have it and you have a story to tell them. I wouldn't be getting more tattoos as a coping mechanism. Your hand is pretty much tattooed forever. Find a good artist, think of a tattoo with meaning and hope they can cover it up. Just my opinion
Thank you so much, I appreciate your reply. Yea my local Removery will allow me to do 1 session at a time if I wanted to, it’s just that it’s a decent drive away and I don’t have a car atm. Currently saving up for one tho, so once I get my car, I’ll keep removal in mind. As far as the artist goes, I completely agree with you. I really wish I would’ve went to a more traditional artist that would’ve talked some sense into me & not let me do this to myself. I know I can’t completely blame the artist, cuz he didn’t force me to get it, but at the same time I feel like he should’ve made a little more effort to encourage me to get something on my arm at least.
Cant believe a tattoo artist let you do that as a first tattoo. Sorry you’re going through the regret. I wouldnt get more tattoos to distract from it at this point. That only works if you have a lot of tattoos, and that’ll be costly again and might involve more regret somewhere down the line. I’d start the removal process sooner than later, you have a long journey ahead of you. Its been the biggest test of patience for me, but id wish id starter sooner than i did in the end. You can do less sessions if money is tight, it will still fade but just take longer.
Yea I know, I can’t believe it myself. I wish I would’ve went to a more traditional artist, who would’ve denied it & talked some sense into me. But it is what it is I suppose. But yea I wish I could start removal right now, but I don’t have a car to make it there all the time, and would rather not have to rely on others to get me there. Saving up for one atm, so when I get my car I’ll definitely keep laser In mind.
Yours is pretty fucking awesome where mine is actually shit. Hope that helps.
Thank you man, I appreciate that. That does mean a lot, I hope you have some luck with a cover up or removal if that’s what ur looking to do.
Just curious (no judgement), did the artist say anything to you about your first tattoo being on your hand? Many (reputable) artists that I know won’t even tattoo someone’s hand unless they are covered elsewhere. Especially on a person who is still very young. With that said, it’s a nicely done tattoo so it doesn’t look bad, though I understand how it can be jarring to see yourself like this now and miss your old skin. I’m not sure if this will be helpful for you, but what made me not feel bad about my tattoos I didn’t like is realizing that it’s just skin. I’m still me with or without the tattoos and as much as I’d like to go back in time and just not get them, that’s not possible so there’s no need to dwell on it. What is it about the tattoo that you don’t like? Is it the artwork itself or that it’s not what you’re used to seeing when you look at your hand? Or both? Also, I wouldn’t recommend getting more tattoos yet. I actually said this earlier today (in a totally different context but still applies haha), don’t make permanent life decisions before 25! Your brain is still developing and you’ll avoid a lot of heartache. Not all of it but hopefully some of it haha.
Thank you so much, I appreciate your response. You’re right tho, it’s just skin, so I shouldn’t be beating myself & dwell on it as much as I do. Still working on that tho lol. The artist I went to did ask me If I was positive that this is what I wanted for my first one, and I told him that I was. I was 19 at the time tho, so I feel like no matter how good I explained to him that I was sure this is what I wanted, he shouldn’t of listened to me. I really wish he would’ve made more effort than he did, to talk some sense in me & encourage me to start on my arm at least. I can’t put all the blame on him obviously, but at the same time I think it was pretty fucked up of him to be so easily willing to permanently ink my hand at such a young age. I did like my tattoo for some time, but now I think my taste has changed over the past 2 years, and I don’t find it aesthetically pleasing to my eye. I think the main reason I don’t like it as much anymore is because it covers my whole hand. I feel like if I would’ve at least went with a design that wasn’t so massive, and left a good chunk of open skin, I might not hate it as much. Sorry for the novel haha
I know you said you can’t afford removal right now, but maybe just start putting away $ to start maybe next year? It has a ton of shading and would fade a lot after just one session. I have a tattoo that I hated, after one session it’s much lighter and looks way less prominent on my skin. I’m happy with how it looks until I can save more money. I just want to give you hope that maybe partial removal would give you solace (at least for right now) It’s faded a ton too since the comparison photo (check it out in my profile)
Hey I appreciate ur reply, but yea I definitely will need to save up more $. I don’t have a car atm, so I need to get that first. I’m glad your removal is going well for you!
If you hate it at 21 you're definitely going to hate it at 25... 30... 50. I highly highly HIGHLY recommend not getting more ink if you dislike your current tattoos because what you're actually doing is the "kick the can" method. It seems like the only thing in your way is the price tag which honestly is the best problem because you have time on your side. Don't despair you're still just a kid. I got mine when I was 19-20 and hated them by 21. I waited, wore my sunscreen, kept them covered as much as possible (sun damage makes removal slower). Now I'm 27, making good money and can afford $5000 for tattoo removal without breaking the bank. (I have several large very colorful tats hence the price tag.) The good news? You'll get to exactly where you want to be. The bad news? It's going to take a while. My advice? 1. Wear sunscreen!!! Especially with a hand tattoo as you can't really cover it easily. Mineral is best but you do you. 2. Break down your savings goal into bite sized pieces. Open a separate bank account. Set a realistic savings goal, it could be $10 a month any amount is great. 3. Keep fit and eat healthy. Limit alcohol consumption, eat lots of veggies and limit junk food. Your body is already trying to break down your tattoo (why old tatts looks smudgy) the healthier you are from now moving forward will only help you remove them faster. 4. Don't beat yourself up you've done nothing irreversible. Depression is a little bitch and makes you feel like you're always going to feel like complete crap. It's not even 1% true. You got this. Baby steps until you're outside the tunnel and one day you'll be amazed at how far you've come. (:
Thank you brother I appreciate that foreal. What you said is definitely a good idea tho. I’m currently saving up for a car so I can even get myself to removal appointments if that’s where I’m leaning still in the future. I just kind of feel stuck, because even if I do go thru with removal, I’m not sure if I’ll have much luck. I’ve seen people with the tiniest ring finger tattoos that barely come out after multiple sessions, so I don’t know if I should pursue that or not. I love all my other tattoos, it’s just my hand that I still have mixed feelings about
There's so many factors that go into how well a tattoo will fade. Im by no means an expert but even the solid black doesn't look super deep in the skin, so I think it's definitely feasible for you. The tattoo looks like a good quality and well done imo. Very even shading which is good. I see you already have some blurring in the edges of the fingers, another good sign for removal. Maybe invest on some sick ass leather gloves and see if just not looking at it makes you feel better. Out of sight out of mind. Save for the important stuff now, and when you're on your feet and life is treating you a little better than the chaos of your early 20s you can see how you feel. A lot can happen in a few years, keep your chin up! we're rooting for you!!
I appreciate you man, thanks for your support. But yea life’s been kinda hectic lately, still figuring a lot of shit out. I’m trying my best to think of it like “you live & you learn” as they say, and use this experience to make smarter tattoo decisions for the future. When I have all my shit settled & am in a decent spot financially, I will definitely keep removal in mind.
It's very well done
I appreciate that, means a lot <3
I actually wanted this tattoo but i got a different tattoo and i regret it very much… hence why i am in this sub…
Damn I’m sorry to hear that, I hope you have luck in possibly getting a cover up, or removal if that’s what ur looking to do. May I ask what you ended up going with? And if you got the one I have, do you think you’d still be regretting it?
Honestly I love it. It's really well done
Thank you, I appreciate that !!
Don’t do more tattoos! Trust me. I’ve been doing tattoo removal for a year and a half. It’s a lengthy process but it’s worth it! My laser center also allows you to buy one laser session at a time, or a few sessions at a time and/or a full package. A lot of places will work with you on price and financing. Also, there are laser tattoo removal schools that offer amazingly low prices on sessions for students who are in school for tattoo removal. Laser tattoo removal students need to practice! Any laser tattoo removal school would love to take on a big project like yours. Tattoo artists love to build portfolios and showcase their work. Laser tattoo removal centers also like to build portfolios and showcase how well they can remove some of the toughest tattoos. Stick with it! It’s not permanent it’s just a process and a project! You are young, you can do it! It’s just going to take determination, patience and time.
At least the tattoo seems a high quality one. Well done and quite beautiful. I didn’t read everything in the comments. My 2 cents: don’t do other tattoos just to divert attention. What is it’s worse? Try some non permanent ones maybe. To remove mine I went to small shops, people that are starting. Current one offers 50% discount if I let him take pictures and put them on the net for references. I’ve been quoted as expensive as 400$/ session, currently paying 150. It might take 4-5 sessions more at the end, but it’s convenient to me the price I’m paying at the moment.
I have some tattoos that I regret right now as well. I can relate to a lot of what you said. It’s super difficult. One thing I’m doing is focusing on what I CAN CONTROL such as working hard in the gym and staying as healthy as possible. Don’t get more tattoos to drown out the ones you don’t like. Trust me, I’m 35 and I’ve done this. It’s not a great idea. DM me if you want to talk and keep your head up champ.
Thank you brotha, I appreciate that foreal. But yes it’s definitely not easy to deal with, shit fucking sucks. I definitely could be living a much more healthy lifestyle tho, I never workout & just sit in my room and play video games all day depressed asf. I’ve been working night shifts for about 2 years now, and I feel like I barely have energy to do jack shit when I wake up. One of my coworkers has offered me to start doing to the gym with him, so I should take that up.
imagine you get your body game tight. you get in the best shape ever... you might think of your tattoo less because you will look great. idk, this is what i try to focus on.
Hi! Yes! Go to the gym. Work out. Multiple studies have shown the powerful link between the mind and body. When you exercise your body gets to detoxify, your hormones even out, your cortisol ( stress hormone) lowers,you get a release of feel good hormones AND you feel in control of something. Not mindlessly playing video games. I speak from experience. Depression is no joke! Good luck OP
I know you're not asking for removal advice so ignore it if you want to. But honestly what I would do? Go out into the sun. Don't cover it up. Let it fade over the next few years. And once its more faded, the €€ will be lower. In the meantime, you can save up. Or, get one or two sessions a year. I got a tattoo on an impulse when I was 16/17 on my lower arm and I'm now 19 almost 20 removing it. I can't afford packages and I sure as hell can't afford many appointments in a year. So I will have one, or two appointments a year. For me it's more affordable that way and I didn't want to wait so long to save up for all the costs. Also, I wanted to get a lot more tattoos on my arm in order to like the one I'm removing right now. But I'm very happy that I didn't do that. I have one more on my upper back but that's it. I don't think it's the right motive to get other tattoos (unless you are really 100% sure you want to get them and it isn't just about that one tat). Because of this entire process I think I will lay off on getting big tattoos for a couple of years. Also, because of how hard I tried to convince myself I did really love it, I sometimes still have doubts in the removal process. It's not a straight line. But thats just me. What I'm trying to say is please just really think everything through. And maybe talk to someone about it (like a therapist)
I appreciate the info man, and yea that’s not a bad idea. I’ll probably just let it fade & if I still feel this way years down the line, I’ll get another quote for removal. It’s such a big commitment to go thru with removal, so it’s pretty stressful. I also vape so that doesn’t help either. As far as getting more tattoos, I feel like it would help a little bit just so I have other artwork to look at. I will definitely think about it. Good luck to you on your removal journey tho.
Thank you, I appreciate your response. But yea the artist I went to did ask me if I was sure this is what I wanted for my first one, and I told him I was positive. But I was 19 at the time, and I honestly don’t think any 19 year old truly knows what they want permanently inked on their skin. With that being said, I really wish he would’ve made a little more effort to try to talk some sense into me, and that it’s not a good idea, and to just start on my arm at least. I can’t put all the blame on him, but if he has any self respect, he should not be cool with blasting a kids hand for their first tat.
Keep it. Just get a nice watch to make it look even slicker.
I would suggest changing the narrative in your mind. When you have a thought or feeling that negativity relates to that tattoo, begin thinking of the things you’re grateful for. This works better for me than thinking about how I have it better than others because that is always a very fleeting solution for me. I’d also like to point out that while you may not be able to remove it now, you very well may be able to in the future. Knowing this won’t be a feeling you can’t seem to do anything about for the rest of your life may bring you some peace.
Thank you, I appreciate that. You’re definitely right tho, it’s just mind over matter. It’s just so fucking hard to have to battle with your own mind, and constantly deal with random subconscious thoughts that enter my mind out of nowhere. I’m slowly making peace with it, but I’m hoping I can just accept it and be happy again sooner than later
I know you’ll get there!! It is super hard- fighting your own mind is the toughest battle anyone can go through.
You don’t need to pay for removal monthly. A tattoo very likely will continue to subtly fade for even upward to a year after a session. While you can do it monthly, I sorta suspect it’s better to son them out a bit. I bet it happen faster hitting it every month, and maybe the prior months session is still doing something while you continue with sessions and it’s all adding up, but I intend to down my out a bit. Go easy on my lymphatic system, and assume that one session will amount to months of fading.
Honestly, I think there are so many people in your position! There’s nothing wrong with your tattoo. My son has sleeve regret. I feel awful for you both! But at the end of the day, are you healthy? Happy? I think that’s what’s most important. You could have it removed also. I think it looks cool!
I'm an old dude, and I've noticed that people who aren't happy, aren't happy regardless of the situation. Don't beat yourself up and think you would have been happy had you not got this tat, because you probably would have obsessed over something else in its place. No offense by the way, just my observation. Now, what to do? Don't get more tattoos for one. Second, if money is tight, maybe just work at getting the parts removed which are in plain sight. Lots of professional jobs require long sleeves, so for now, there's no need to worry about the arm parts. Also, tattoo removal is sloooooow, so even an appointment every six months is probably fine (and minimizes the chances of wasting money on unnecessary sessions). And finally, to hopefully make you feel less alone in your misery, I'll share my sad-sack story. I have a tattoo on my arm which I got when I was dealing with a brutal child access case. My ex had lots of money for lawyers and we had never been married, which if you know anything about Canadian Family Court System, does not work in the favor of the male. Long story short, every time I look at my arm, it is a reminder of that traumatic and terribly sad chapter of my life. In short, deal with the parts that affect your job prospects (and dating life?). Don't ruminate over the rest, because it's done and worrying about it won't speed up the removal process.
I am so sorry you feel this way. probably not what you want to hear but I would HIGHLY advise you start the removal process as soon as possible and do not get any more tattoos for now. As many people on this group, I started with a stupid tattoo that I ended up regretting, then covered it up with a blackout tattoo, then decided to get a whole sleeve to make the blackout tattoo stand out less. now after a decade of wearing long sleeves I am going through the very painful and long process of removing all of my tattoos and REALLY regretting not starting sooner, when there would be only one stupid star tattoos to remove instead! I know how you feel, I felt the exact same way at 21 and now at 30 I really regret not starting the removal process sooner. if you start now, your tattoos will be gone by the time you are 24.
Hi OP! I’m someone who is currently in the process of getting tattoos removed. Just know that tattoo regret is real. However, all the other positive comments on this thread are real too. Loving and accepting yourself with your flaws and all is one of the most beautiful things you could ever do for your self-esteem. Also, if you follow R/tattooremoval, you will see a lot of people get their tattoos removed one session at a time and wait and extended period of time for their body to get rid of the ink. I would say just do one session at a time and wait 4-6 months between sessions. You would be so surprised at how your body works to get rid of the ink. I’m going to LaserAway and they quoted $2000 for 10 sessions. I’m going to take a long break after my fifth session which is coming up and see how my results are. Good luck with everything and please remember this tattoo is NOT who you are! 💜
That tattoo looks so cool. I would say everything happens for a reason. You were destined to get that tattoo and you did. It was not a mistake, it was fate
Thank you brotha I appreciate it, I like to think everything happens for a reason as well. Trying my best to think of it like that
I got a horribly done coverup two weeks ago over a tattoo that was beautiful just didn’t like the angle… well it ended up being a big black blob that you can’t even tell what it was supposed to be. I blamed the artist and then myself then the artist… but at the end of the day I learned to take it as a learning experience and just start the removal process once it’s healed. After two weeks and changing my thought process I honestly forget about it and it’s right where I see it on my forearm… point is what’s done and done and just think in 2 years it’ll be very faded if not gone but you have to think of the process of removal. Like 3 months from now it’ll be more faded then now then 3 months after that and so on. Learn from it and move on my friend. After all like others said it’s just ink in your skin
Have you considered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for this? It might also help with other aspects in your life. It helped me during a very intense time of my life where I’ve been dealing with a plethora of difficulties. This hand of yours will someday turn out it’s golden. It will motivate you towards moving forward, achieving goals, getting yourself out of your current dark night of the soul. The car you’re saving up for, make it a crowdfunding thing. If you want to go for laser, speak to others about it, let them be part of your process, so you don’t go through it alone. If you decide not to spend money on removal, spend it on self-improvement, working out, healthy lifestyle. You’ll be amazed about your potential and what you can achieve. You’ve got this tat for a reason. Maybe it’s your journey to find out why. Best of luck to you!
I really appreciate this. I will definitely have to look into therapy tho. I really hope everything happens for a reason, even the stupid decisions we all make. When I got this tattoo, I chose it over a design that actually had meaning to it, for only God knows why. That’s one of the main reasons I beat myself up so much, like why the fuck didn’t I just get the original design I had a gut feeling to get, but still got this anyway. Can’t wrap my mind around it. Anyways thank you again for your advice <3
I had that with my tattoo mishap as well. I had a coverup done last year that didn’t turn out well. All because I couldn’t say no to the artist. I couldn’t stick to my initial plan and idea. I’ve sent them a file with my inspiration and tats I really loved a month before the sesh and I later found out they didn’t even open the file. The design was done on the spot and I didn’t like the first attempt, so they started over. The second one was okay and I thought, let’s do it. But they suggested to go bigger. I didn’t want this but they kept persuading me so I went along. When it was done I instantly felt gnarly about it. The tat gave me panic attacks for about 6 months and I kept asking myself how did I not stand up for what I wanted? Where was my backbone? It was a harsh lesson that taught me never ever to back off from myself and my wants and needs again. I’ve written down my thoughts I had about my tat and that helped as well. Another thing that helps is that I get compliments for it from other people, which is funny because I see it differently haha. But it helps me think that the way people see me is much softer and gentler than I see myself. We sometimes do things we regret, that’s just our nature. Learning from it and growing past it, is a humbling and enriching process. ✌️
Damn yea that sounds pretty similar to my situation. I didn’t stick with my initial idea, & didn’t stand up for myself to the artist when I had a weird gut feeling about it, but went through with it anyway. I’m sorry you had to go through this shit as well, it’s one of the worst feelings. You’re right tho, at least we both learned to go with what we truly want deep down for the future & to stick up for ourselves. Unfortunately it had to be the hard way, but at the end of the day it is what it is I suppose. I wish you the best of luck tho, & hope you’re doing better than you were!
Thanks, I’m a bit better at dealing with it. I’m still figuring out what I want to do with it though. Hey, but I had a thought about yours. I’ve read in a comment that you’re a gamer. Don’t know if you play Zelda TOTK? But if so, you could totally turn that hand/arm in what Link has going on in TOTK with a good artist. But that’s only if you won’t go for laser.
Hi I I know you’re upset about your tattoo but many people, including myself think it’s very attractive❤️But make sure you’re comfortable in your own skin before you please anyone else. Remember that you come first. Have you thought about a blackout?
Thank you I appreciate that <3 Im kind of just accepting it at this point, I don’t think I’ll black it out
I Think it looks pretty badass
I appreciate that man, means a lot !!
Where are you located? I have a new Pocoway (like the Removery). I am in Arkansas.
I love it but remover is a great place to start
Try not to go the route of getting more tattoos to make yourself accept it more. You might have even deeper regrets in 10 years. I would stop tattoos for at least 5 years as you are young, and you can determine if you are a person who even wants to be heavily tattooed forever. I got more to make myself accept my existing ones and I am removing everything now. Just save up the money for a removery package, or you can pay for just one session to get the fading started and then start saving for the package. It’s ok to take long breaks between sessions and it is beneficial to your skin healing.
your hand is really sexy 😍😍
Personally I’d try to get the hand portion removed. Right at the line under the skull. Wasn’t sure if it was the hand part that was bothering you but cheaper to start there I guess.
Awful and insane placement for a first tattoo / good luck removing
Yea I’m well aware of that, teens like myself make the dumbest fucking decisions from time to time. Thanks tho
I understand your frustration. I would say do not get more tattoos just to deal with it. You will likely regret those later. My advice is to begin the removal process. You can pay as you go. It will take a while to get through it, so paying a little as you go will be much more tolerable. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Also, your tattoos don’t define you. What you are inside defines you. Show people the real you in how you treat others and how you love your life. ❤️
You can just get it removed. I struggled with this for months until I just accepted that I was getting rid of it. It will take longer and be much more expensive than getting it put on but it's still something that can be undone.
I think yours looks pretty dope! And at least the work is well done!!
$4000 to remove just ur hand tattoo? go somewhere else removery loves to over charge just for them to barely touch u it’s their thing. depending where u r removery should be the last option