Myrna L. Armstrong of the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, Texas, conducted a survey of 196 people who visited one of four dermatology clinics for tattoo removal in 2006.

The 66 men and 130 women -- average age 30 -- answered 127 questions and their responses were compared to those generated by a similar survey conducted in 1996.

In 2006, 44 percent of participants reported they got a tattoo to feel unique, 33 percent wanted to feel independent or 28 percent wanted to make life experiences stand out.

The main reasons listed for seeking tattoo removal included: 58 percent just decided to remove the tattoos; 57 percent suffered embarrassment; 38 percent had a lowered body image; 38 got a new job or career; 37 percent had problems with clothes; 25 percent experienced stigma; and 21 percent marked an occasion, such as a birthday, marriage or newly found independence.

The findings are published in the Archives of Dermatology.