How to choose a tattoo you’ll never regret

Many people compare getting their first tattoo to having their first cup of coffee—once you try it, there’s no turning back, and soon you’ll want more. But unlike a cup of coffee, a tattoo is permanent, and that brings with it a significant commitment. You’ll see that ink on your body every single day, so you need to make sure you truly love it.
For some, though, that connection fades. What once felt deeply personal can quickly turn into a source of regret. A tattoo that was once a symbol of a moment or a trend can start to feel like a burden, and over time, the charm can wear off. When that happens, the only option seems to be to remove it, and even that process can be painful.
So, is it possible to get a tattoo you’ll never regret? The answer might be more complex than you think, but it’s worth considering before you make that permanent decision.
“The psychology behind getting a tattoo varies widely from person to person and is also influenced by cultural, emotional or individual preferences. Most people get tattoos for the aesthetic appeal or for the love of art or culture. But there are also individuals who get tattoos based on self-expression, which can be emotional expression, social connection and belonging, an impulsive decision, or even a symbol of transformation,” Lokesh Verma, founder of Devil’z Tattooz, tells India Today.
Adding to this, Prashant Yaduvanshi, founder of Shaman Ink, mentions that for some, tattoos serve as a coping mechanism or a symbolic representation of personal growth, healing, or significant life events.
“Ultimately, tattoos reflect a person’s unique journey, with their meaning and purpose as individual as the person wearing them,” he says.
According to Verma, people usually prefer the forearm and side of the wrist for a tattoo because these areas are less painful and offer a smaller surface area for smaller tattoos.
Meanwhile, Yaduvanshi feels that tattoo placement and design are highly subjective, but some areas are more popular than others. Common placements include the forearm, upper sleeve, and back, as these offer ample space and relatively low pain levels.
As for designs, many people opt for minimalist symbols, floral motifs, meaningful quotes, or geometric patterns. He states that the choice ultimately depends on personal style, body shape, and the significance of the tattoo.

Choosing the right placement for your tattoo is crucial (Photo: Getty Images)

Should it be visible to you?
“The idea that people should get tattoos in places they can’t see often is subjective and depends on personal preference and psychological reasoning,” shares Lokesh Verma.
While many prefer tattoos in open areas, some people do not, and the reason may be to avoid overexposure, which could lead to boredom or reduce emotional intensity, or even for reasons related to professional and social acceptance.
Yaduvanshi agrees and says that the idea that tattoos should be placed where they aren’t visible often comes from the belief that one might grow bored with them over time.
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth for most individuals, as tattoos often serve as cherished reminders, symbols of self-expression, or personal stories that bring joy each time they’re seen. Ultimately, placement should align with personal preference and the design’s purpose.
The reason many people regret their tattoos is due to spontaneous or impulsive decision-making.
“There are teenagers or even some adults who get a tattoo of their lover’s name or initials just because they felt a connection at that moment, which often leads to regrets and eventually coming back in for a cover-up,” says Verma.
Apart from boredom or impulsive decisions, regret can arise from celebrity or trend influence or getting a tattoo done without thoughtful consideration of its meaning or significance.
Yaduvanshi tells us, “Failing to research the design, placement, or the artist can also lead to dissatisfaction with the final result. However, regret isn’t unique to tattoos—any decision made carelessly or without proper reflection can lead to feelings of remorse. The key is to take your time, ensure the tattoo truly resonates with you, and choose a skilled artist who aligns with your vision.”

If you don’t carefully consider the design, you might regret it later (Photo: Getty Images)

Getting a tattoo that you won’t regret involves careful planning, thoughtful consideration, and responsible decision-making.
First, you should pick the style you want and then choose the right artist who specialises in that style. After that, schedule a consultation with them.
Choose a tattoo that holds personal significance and resonates with you on a deeper level. Avoid following fleeting trends, copying celebrity tattoos, or selecting designs straight from Pinterest without personalisation.
Discuss the right size so that the tattoo won’t smudge in the future, as the lines can get slightly thicker with time. Always listen to your artist’s suggestions. Once decided, place the stencil and see if the placement feels right.
Don’t rush; take your time—even if it takes months or even years. Choose something that you can relate to, and do some research on the design you would like to get. Lastly, follow your instincts. If your gut tells you not to get it, then don’t.