81 People Who Clearly Didn’t Think Their Tattoo Through Before Making It Permanent (New Pics)

When you think about it, the fact that so many people get tattoos is almost surprising. It’s a lifelong commitment, after all—and studies show we change our minds about music, films, and visual art as frequently as every two weeks. Our feelings about our own tattoos are probably no different. About one in four people ultimately end up regretting theirs.

When they do pay off, though, tattoos can be genuinely beautiful. Research suggests most people get them to mark something meaningful—a significant experience, a struggle, a memory of someone they’ve lost. Others simply see them as a form of self-expression, which is just as valid. At its best, tattooing is a real art form.

Even if you love your tattoo the moment you get it, there’s no guarantee you’ll feel the same way years down the line. The good news is that options exist. Laser removal, while costly and requiring multiple sessions, is more advanced than ever. Cover-ups are another route. But the best approach, naturally, is doing everything you can upfront to avoid regret altogether.

Tattoo artists have plenty of advice on that front, and most of it starts with research. Don’t cut corners when it comes to finding the right person to work on your skin. Angel Garcia, a tattoo artist based in Brooklyn, strongly recommends an in-person consultation.

“Most artists, if not all, will recommend this option,” they told The Guardian. “It could be walking in and looking at someone’s flash book and seeing the vibe. It could be discussing a custom piece with your artist.”

Alejandra Pires, a tattoo enthusiast from the Midwest, echoes that sentiment. “Know what you’re getting into,” she said. “Figure out what the ‘norms’ of the industry are and why they’re in place.”

“Also, research the individual artists whose work you’re into. Make sure the artist’s style matches what you want to get and familiarize yourself with their booking process. Check out their portfolios and make sure they share healed photos.”

Once you’re actually in the studio, trust your instincts. There’s a tendency to people-please in uncomfortable situations—to just go along with things to avoid causing a fuss, the way you might accept the wrong order at a restaurant rather than send it back. A tattoo is a little different.

Pires is direct about this: “Don’t say yes to a design if you’re not sure about it. If an artist has drawn up a custom design for you, it’s normal for them to tweak it a bit at your request during the appointment if you want to make changes. If the vibes ever feel off, it’s not only OK but better to back out than to get the tattoo, even if you lose your deposit.”