If you follow celebrity news you may have come across reports about Pete Davidson’s tattoo removal. The former Saturday Night Live performer is currently on a crusade to remove virtually all of his tattoos. He’s widely recognised for his sharp humour and his standout tattoo-covered look. This story is intriguing to many Australians not just because of Pete’s popularity, but also because it shows how tattoo removal works and why people opt to start again.
This article explores Pete Davidson’s decision to remove his tattoos, why he made such a significant choice, what the procedure involves, and what Australians can learn if they’re considering their own tattoo removal journey.
Why Pete Davidson is removing his tattoos
Pete Davidson once had more than 200 tattoos, many of which had personal or emotional significance. He has stated in the past that his tattoos helped him deal with addiction mental health concerns and difficult sentiments. He described them as “a map” of his former self, which no longer exists.
However, as Pete matured became sober and established new career goals, the tattoos began to feel more like a burden than a method to express himself. He stated that some of the drawings were created on a whim and it became tiresome to cover them up for films and television series. Pete claimed that makeup artists often took three to four hours to cover up his tattoos before filming.
Pete explained that on a deeper level, the decision was symbolic—an opportunity to “start fresh” and move on. He said once “I used to be sad.” I’m attempting to be an adult now. This emotional shift explains why many people including celebrities choose to become rid of their tattoos as part of a fresh start.
The long road to tattoo removal
Pete began removing his tattoos in 2020 and as of 2025, he is still not finished. According to reports the treatment might take as long as ten years and cost more than $200,000. Given his extensive tattoo collection, this timeline is unsurprising.
Pete has said the following regarding what happened to him:
- He has already performed dozens of laser treatments.
- He stated the anguish was so intense that it felt like putting his arm on a grill.
- He wants to save only a few tattoos, particularly those related to family or deeply personal memories.
- Around 30% of his tattoos have been effectively removed.
Fans have noted that Pete’s chest, arms and shoulders are less tattooed in recent photos, which is a significant improvement.
How tattoos are removed
Laser tattoo removal is the most widely used technique today. It employs high-powered laser pulses to degrade ink particles beneath the skin. Over a period of treatments, your immune system works to flush out the tiny particles.
Here’s a brief overview of the steps:
- The laser therapy begins: A specific laser targets the pigment in tattoo ink.
- Ink particles split apart: The laser’s warmth breaks the ink down into tiny particles.
- Healing phase: A recovery window of six to eight weeks is needed before scheduling the next session.
- Multiple sessions: Depending on the ink density, colours and placement the tattoo may require 10 to 20 sessions to be entirely removed.
- Aftercare: To prevent scarring stay out of the sun and moisturise your skin.
For Pete, who has hundreds of tattoos, each session lasts hours and the entire procedure takes years.
How this affects identity and transformation
Pete Davidson’s tattoo removal is about more than just his appearance; it’s also about his personal growth. When people change, their bodies may provide a space for new beginnings. For Pete, getting rid of tattoos entails emotional recovery, professional development and self-acceptance.
Many Australians who have tattoos representing old relationships, lost loved ones or childhood errors may be able to connect to this. As we age, the meanings of our tattoos may alter, which is why some individuals prefer to start over.
His story also demonstrates that tattoos are designed to endure forever but the meanings we assign them are not. Taking them off may be a strong decision that stems from growth rather than regret.
What we can learn from Pete Davidson’s story?
If you’re an Australian thinking about getting or getting rid of a tattoo, Pete’s tale offers some valuable lessons for you:
- Think long-term before inking up. Choose designs that still hold meaning years later.
- Tattoo removal is expensive: Professional laser removal in Australia costs $100 to $500 each session, depending on the size and colour of the tattoo.
- This takes a long time: You might anticipate having multiple sessions over the period of months or even years.
- Pain is part of the deal: As Pete mentioned, getting rid of the tattoo may hurt more than having it in the first place.
- Taking care of your skin is crucial: To avoid infection or pigmentation changes always adhere to the aftercare guidelines.
- Consider alternatives: If you aren’t ready to have all of your tattoos erased a professional tattoo artist can create a cover-up tattoo that combines old ink with new ink.
These concepts demonstrate that getting rid of a tattoo is possible, but it requires time, perseverance and the right expert advice.
Conclusion
Pete Davidson’s goal is not simply to get rid of the ink; he also wants to change himself. He used to have a lot of tattoos, but now he wants to seem cleaner and more mature, which reflects how he’s evolved as a person and performer.
Pete’s story reminds Australians that tattoos are a long-term commitment, but they do not have to define who you are for the rest of your life. If you’re considering getting your first tattoo or having one removed understanding how it will affect you emotionally physically and financially will help you make an informed decision.
Finally, Pete Davidson’s tattoo removal demonstrates how while change can be difficult it can also lead to new opportunities. Sometimes, every laser treatment is worthwhile for a fresh start.
