It may seem a trendy thing to do or possibly a way of making yourself stand out from the crowd. Many of those who have a tattoo done on a whim, fueled possibly by alcohol and bravado, later come to regret their impulsive action.
Impulsive Tattoos
According to Barry Crake, a micropigmentation technician, there are around 20 million people in Britain who have tattoos, and he suggests that 75 percent of those regret having gotten them.
He speaks from personal experience, stating in a recent article in the “Independent” that his use of tattooing was a form of self-harm in reaction to a very difficult childhood. Crake is a professional remover of tattoos and founder of a charity that helps people get their tattoos removed.
Employers Adopt No-Tattoo Policy
In these times of rising unemployment, there may be more cogent reasons to avoid or want to be rid of one's tattoo. Having a tattoo may reduce one's employability. At one time, says Barry Crake, the boss may have turned a blind eye to tattoos, but these days many banks, building societies, energy companies, and other large corporations now have a strict no-tattoo policy.
We all probably know somebody who decided to celebrate a passionate romance by getting a tattoo naming their beloved. But what happens if that love grows cold, leaving them with a constant reminder of a broken heart?
Tattoo Removal
At one time, tattoos could be removed through Britain’s National Health Service. Due to cut-backs as of 2011, this is no longer available in the United Kingdom, so going privately is the only option. At £80 per inch, the cost quickly mounts up.
There is hope for those who feel their life is blighted by their tattoo. Barry Crake's charity, the Human Life Trust, based in Sunderland, offers free tattoo removal to those who can show, through GP referral, that they have a genuine and pressing need. Demand has been so buoyant that the Human Life Trust has recently opened a new branch located in Chiswick, London.
Reference
Duerden, Nick, "Marked for Life," The Independent, Tuesday, 8th March 2011
