Pete Davidson has joined the ranks of celebrities who are on their way to being tattoo-free.
People reported on Oct. 25 that the stand-up comedian was seen wearing a short-sleeve shirt, showing that his bare arms were nearly clear of any ink.
“Celebrities opting for tattoo removal highlights how public lives and careers can impact personal choices,” dermatologist Hannah Kopelman told The Epoch Times. “It’s a reminder for all of us to carefully consider tattoos and that even the biggest stars go through similar experiences of change and growth.”
Other stars who have undergone tattoo removal include Eva Longoria, Mark Wahlberg, Tallulah Willis, Sarah Hyland, and Khloé Kardashian.
“Visible tattoos can limit which film/TV roles celebrities can secure,” tattoo artist Dillon Forte told The Epoch Times. “Tattoos can make certain people look too edgy, so I assume they are looking to have that blank canvas or lack of visible distraction when going into auditions.”
Forte, who is based in Austin, Texas, has inked for Usher, Kat Von D, and Chris Hemsworth.
He said he won’t take offense if they chose to remove his tattoos.
“It’s their choice,” Forte said. “I’m sure they would have a reason that makes sense. Thankfully, I haven’t heard of any past clients removing my work.”
In Davidson’s case, it was the time it took to cover his tattoos while on set during a movie shoot that prompted him to remove the ink.
The former “Saturday Night Live” actor also described the process of having his tattoos burned off.
“Not only are they like burning off your skin, you’re wearing these big goggles so you can’t see anything,” Davidson told Meyers. “The doctor’s in there with you. So before he goes to laser each tattoo, you have to hear him announce what the tattoo is to make sure if you want to keep it or not.”
Davidson also disclosed in 2021 that he was given the analgesic gas Pro-Nox to minimize the pain during the procedure.
Additionally, 24 percent of Americans regret getting one or more of their tattoos.
But tattoo removal isn’t for everyone.
“It’s a commitment—just like getting the tattoo was,” Kopelman said. “I help my patients weigh the benefits against the potential side effects, and for those who feel their tattoo no longer fits, I’ve seen it be incredibly freeing.”
Tattoo removal isn’t entirely risk-free either.
Common side effects include redness, swelling, blistering, and, in some cases, even scarring.
“Darker inks or larger tattoos can take several sessions, which can mean more side effects and downtime,” Kopelman said. “Patients may also notice temporary changes in skin color—lighter or darker patches where the tattoo was. I guide them through these possibilities and suggest ways to minimize discomfort and speed up healing between sessions.”
Davidson did not respond to requests for comment.
“The most common reason I hear from patients is regret often because the tattoo no longer aligns with who they are,” Dr. Kopelman said. “Whether it’s a design they chose in their youth or a decision made impulsively, many patients feel like their tattoo just doesn’t represent them anymore.
“In some cases, people are changing careers or going through life changes, which also influences the desire for removal.”
