Older generations used to warn that people shouldn’t get tattoos because they’re permanent and someone may one day regret getting them. However, these days tattoo removal is an option. Although painful, it works after a few sessions but can leave behind some scarring. Either way, 35-year-old Leandro De Souza has decided to undergo laser treatments to remove almost 2 decades worth of ink.
Leandro De Souza is a native of Brazil and a proud father. However, his divorce almost a decade ago proved to be almost more than he could handle. As a result, De Souza went down a path of partying. During this time he accumulated more than 170 tattoos but his first ink was at just 13 years old. “I did the first one when I was 13,” De Souza explained. “The first ones were very much about the idolatry of the time.” However, he’s recently set out on a religious path of Evangelicalism. As a result, he’s decided to undergo the laser tattoo removal process.
Facing Heartbreak
Leandro’s first tattoos were inspired by his favorite bands, such as Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses, and Metallica. However, the majority of his tattoos were from a decade-long binge following his divorce. During that time, Leandro admittedly experimented with drugs like LSD, alcohol, and ecstasy.
Finding Motivation for Tattoo Removal
“I couldn’t stand the life I was living anymore. I was an attraction at (events I attended) and it felt like a circus animal.” He said regarding his decision for tattoo removal. De Souza was visiting a shelter almost a decade after his difficult divorce. This visit would change the course of his life. “The first step in everything in life is to accept that you can’t do it alone, that you are an addict, that you are a drug addict,” de Souza said. “And I managed to do that, I entered the municipal shelter in Bagé. Within a week, there was a lady who referred me and started to evangelize me.“
Turning a New Leaf
It’s been 2 years since De Souza changed his life and opted for tattoo removal. However, it’s a long process that will be more so for De Souza’s 170 tattoos. Moreover, he now spends his time speaking with “parents and children in homes that are in prisons.”
Leandro began the tattoo removal process with the help of a tattoo studio in Franco da Rocha, São Paulo, which heard about the exciting changes Leandro was making to turn his life around. He’s now been clean from alcohol for 3 years, and free of tobacco and other substances for a year. De Souza still has 6 more tattoo removal sessions before his ink is gone and his transformation, so far, is astonishing and awe-inspiring.
Tattoo Removal is a Modern Possibility
For many, getting a tattoo is inspired by the desire to express one’s creativity, treating their body like a canvas. However, others may regret their ink choices as they mature or their interests and relationship status change. Fortunately, tattoo removal is possible with advancing technology but there are a few side effects like tenderness, skin irritability, and even scarring.
Tattoo Removal Methods
Interestingly, tattoo removal comes with options. De Souza’s treatment, laser tattoo removal, uses lasers to “heat the ink particles,” breaking them down and making it “easier for your immune system to remove,” according to Cleveland Clinic. Laser tattoo removal sessions are scheduled about 3 months apart and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the ink. This method does come with side effects that range from mild skin irritation to painful blisters, but each person responds differently to treatment.
Skin Removal for Tattoo Removal
Another option for tattoo removal is surgical excision. The medical procedure requires a surgeon, who will “cut out the skin that contains a tattoo.” Then they will “stitch your remaining skin together.” The procedure probably sounds intimidating but it’s only used for small tattoos, as cutting an entire back tattoo and then stitching it up would be unpleasant, dangerous, and seemingly impossible.
Meanwhile, dermabrasion and chemical peels are used to remove the outer layers of skin. Unfortunately, both can cause severe skin sensitivity, especially in sunlight. Therefore, understanding the risks and how to treat the skin properly as it heals is essential to your skin’s health and physical comfort.
Not Recommended by Professionals
Lastly, and possibly least popular and effective, are tattoo removal creams. They can be used at home and often take months or years to yield results. Furthermore, they contain acids that “irritate or damage your skin.” As such, they’re usually advised against by medical professionals.
Can Anyone Get Tattoo Removal
In short, yes. However, some things are worth noting when considering tattoo removal. Firstly, tattoo removal takes time and similar or repetitive steps to be effective, regardless of your chosen tattoo removal method. The reason for this is that a tattoo artist applies ink in layers of the skin, so layers have to be broken down which can’t happen in one sitting, otherwise you’ll suffer severe and irreversible skin damage. Ultimately, that would put your overall health and immunity at risk. Additionally, your skin needs time between sessions to “flush out the ink” so, it’s recommended to wait a few weeks or months between most tattoo removal options listed above.
Secondly, certain ink colors are easier to remove than others. For example, blue and black are easy to remove during laser tattoo removal because “they’re better at absorbing light.” Meanwhile, colors like red are difficult to remove because their “molecular composition” is more resistant to the treatment options.
An Alternative
Consider having them turned into something else, rather than removed. For instance, if you’re considering tattoo removal and the reason has nothing to do with necessity, for work, or because, like De Souza, you’re on a new path. Instead, you don’t like how it looks anymore, have separated from the person who inspired the tattoo, or have other interests. In this case, you might consider another visit to the tattoo shop to have them create something else by covering the existing tattoo. For many, this option may be more satisfying and less time-consuming.
I Caught My Husband with His Affair Partner at the Airport and Decided to Follow Them to Paris — Story of the Day
My world was shattered in an airport terminal when I discovered my husband with another woman. But a chance encounter with a handsome and charming airline pilot led me on a whirlwind romance to Paris. And yet, my heart wasn’t sure if something like that could last.
Brian and I were at a crossroads in our marriage, though I hadn’t fully realized it. But I was still hopeful for us, so clutching my ticket to Paris, I navigated the crowded local international airport, trying to stifle the nerves churning within me.
I planned to surprise Brian on his business trip to France, so we could reignite our romance in the city of love. However, I saw his silhouette at the airport and quickly realized he had a young woman on his arm, and they were intimately linked.
My heart sank as I realized his deceit. “Brian!” I exclaimed, shocked.
He turned, his face cycling from surprise to detachment. He let go of the strange woman and walked over to me. “Ava, why are you here?” he asked, frowning.
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“I wanted to surprise you, to spend time together in Paris,” I said, my voice trembling as my romantic fantasy shattered.
Brian pulled me farther away from the others with his pursed lips in annoyance. “This isn’t a good time, Ava. It’s a business trip,” he dismissed, snatching and tearing up my ticket. “And before you get any ideas, she’s just a colleague. Go home.”
Tears welled in my eyes. “I thought we were trying to fix things,” I murmured, heartbroken.
“This was a mistake. Leave,” Brian said coldly, walking away, grabbing the woman’s hand, and leaving me crushed. I sank to the floor, sobbing heavily as I leaned on my suitcase. That’s where Jack found me.
“Are you okay?” he asked, his tone imbued with genuine concern. I looked up into the kindest eyes I had ever seen and noticed his pilot uniform, which made him so handsome.
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After telling him what I had gone through, Jack offered me a first-class seat to Paris, no strings attached.
“Why would you help me?” I asked, touched but shocked.
“Everyone deserves a fresh start,” he replied, smiling warmly.
Grinning back slightly, I accepted, hoping Paris might help mend my shattered heart.
***
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In the comfort of my first-class seat, I felt a sense of peace, which distanced me from my recent situation. The luxury was perfect for my shattered heart. Yet, the tranquility was short-lived because my Brian appeared out of seemingly nowhere, his face contorted with indignation.
“What are you doing here?” he sneered.
I mentioned Jack’s invitation, only to be met with Brian’s scorn. I saw my husband get angrier and more red-faced as he kept talking, but Jack appeared out of nowhere and intervened, his authority undisputed.
He firmly told Brian, “She’s here at my invitation,” and directed him back to economy class. I thanked him, relieved that someone had stood up for me.
“You’re welcome. Enjoy the flight, and remember, you deserve to be treated with respect, here and everywhere else,” he said, smiling as usual, and retired back to the cockpit.
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Just as I was settling back against my seat, ready to sleep the entire flight, Brian showed up in my face. His breath smelled of cheap vodka, but his words were even more surprising.
“You think you’ve won, don’t you? Enjoying your little victory lap up here? Well, listen closely. The first thing I’ll do when we land in Paris is cut off all your credit cards. Let’s see how far you get without a penny to your name,” he threatened.
Was this truly my husband?
Before I could succumb to the fear his threats inspired, a hostess interrupted and asked him to return to his seat. A few minutes later, Jack was back at my side, and he proposed something I couldn’t refuse.
“I’ll ensure you’re not alone in Paris. You can stay in my hotel suite, all expenses covered,” he offered with his bright, beautiful eyes.
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“But why would you do this for me?” I asked in disbelief. Of course, I was grateful, but the world wasn’t kind, and this man had treated me better in the last hour than my husband had during our entire relationship.
“It’s the right thing to do,” Jack replied. “Besides, I have a feeling that Paris might just be the beginning of a new chapter for you, one filled with hope and healing. Let me be part of that journey, even just as a friend offering support.”
Finally smiling back, I accepted his generosity and felt a spark of hope.
***
In Paris, the vibrant streets became my healing ground. Jack, acting as my unexpected guardian, guided me through the city, each day mending my heart a little more. As we explored this wonderful place, from the serene Seine to the bustling Montmartre, I shared my innermost thoughts with him, feeling an unexpected bond forming.
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One evening, under the Eiffel Tower’s glow, I realized my feelings for Jack had evolved into something deeper. This change was both exciting and daunting, especially because I had just met him. Perhaps, it was this city. Maybe it wasn’t real, but it felt genuine.
And the magic of this place wasn’t over. An unexpected turn came one crisp morning when I received an email that would once again alter the course of my journey.
On a flight of fancy, before I had decided to chase my husband on his “business trip” to Paris, I had applied for a job advertised on LinkedIn at a prestigious fashion house.
This opportunity promised a stable, independent life in this new city. But there was uncertainty, too. Accepting the position meant anchoring myself to Paris, to a life that was still foreign and new.
It also posed a question that tugged at my heart — what would this mean for my budding relationship with Jack? Conflicted, I discussed the job with him during a rain-soaked walk.
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“I’m so proud of you,” Jack said when I finished explaining, his voice warm and encouraging. “This is an incredible opportunity. You’ve come so far, and you deserve every bit of success and happiness that comes your way.”
“But what about us?” I asked.
Jack reached out and took both my hands in his. “What we have is special, and I won’t pretend that this doesn’t complicate things. But I also know that love isn’t about holding each other back. It’s about supporting each other’s dreams, even when it’s hard.”
Tears glistened in my eyes as the truth of his words sank in. Here was a man who truly wanted what was best for me, who understood the importance of finding my own way.
“You have a chance to start anew, to build a life that’s entirely your own,” Jack continued, squeezing my hand. “No matter what you decide, I’ll be here for you. We’ll figure out the rest together.”
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As we kissed under the twinkling lights and tumbling rain, the sounds of the city around us, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Paris had offered me a chance at redemption, and in Jack, I had found not just a lover but a true partner.
***
While we prepared to leave, Jack offered me a choice: return with him to New York or stay in Paris for the job. He would try to make it work, either way. Touched by his support, I realized what I truly wanted.
“I’ve found strength and love here, Jack, but you have changed everything for me,” I shared. “I want to give us a chance.”
So, during our last walk along the Seine, we decided to return to New York together, committed to each other.
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***
However, the reality of our situation set in once we landed at JFK. I met him at baggage claim, and as we walked outside, Jack expressed his concerns about the practicalities of our relationship given his career and lifestyle.
“My job is not just a job to me. Flying, exploring new cities — it’s a part of who I am. I’m away a lot, and I worry about what that means for us,” he said carefully.
“I love you and while I’m scared, I believe we can navigate this together,” I assured him.
“It might not work,” Jack continued, the words hanging heavy between us. “Let’s take a few days to think about this. To think about us. I want you to be sure.”
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I nodded, swallowing thickly and feeling like our Parisian love bubble was bursting.
Then, Jack handed me a voucher for a hotel stay in New York. “I don’t want you to feel unsupported,” he said. “Take your time to decide what you want, especially about Brian. I’ll be in touch.”
“I swear I want to make this work, Jack,” I said, desperately.
“I still think we both should take some time. Traveling can muddle your brain, especially about love,” he admitted, and we said goodbye with just a small peck.
I remained alone at the terminal long after Jack left. While I was contemplating my future, Brian’s mocking voice interrupted my solitude. “How’s life after your escapade with the pilot?” he taunted, with his mistress by his side.
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“Go away, Brian,” I said, grabbing my bag and starting to roll away.
“Wait, dear wife. How’s life treating you after your little affair with the pilot? Didn’t take long for that to fall apart, did it? Are you all alone here, waiting for me to rescue you?” my husband asked, mocking me.
“Wife?” the woman at his side finally asked.
“Nina, not now,” Brian said dismissively.
Watching her face, I realized she had no idea Brian was married. Suddenly, her hand moved and a sharp sound echoed through the terminal — the unmistakable crack of a slap. Nina had struck him.
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“You lied to me!” she exclaimed. Brian, stunned, had no defense. Then, she turned to me full of apologies.
I gave her an understanding nod. “It’s not your fault,” I said, crossing my arms as I stared at my husband.
With a firm stance, Nina declared to Brian, “We’re done,” and walked away.
I faced my husband, wanting to laugh, but noting that I didn’t feel an ounce of love for him anymore. “Goodbye, Brian,” I said and walked away from him, just like Nina.
It was liberating.
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***
The vibrancy of New York mirrored my own transformation. I had evolved from my sad, lonely marriage. Reflecting on my journey with Jack, I realized our shared experiences had ignited a deep desire for adventure and growth.
Therefore, I decided to become an air hostess, blending my newfound independence with my love for Jack and the skies. With his support, I navigated the application process and training, and our relationship matured into a fantastic partnership.
At last, I was assigned to my first flight, coincidentally on one of Jack’s routes. Dressed in my air hostess uniform, I met his proud gaze as I walked down the airplane aisle.
His embrace and the kiss we shared were filled with the promise of the brightest future together.
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If you enjoyed this story, you might like this one about a stewardess who banned an Arab man from boarding a plane, unaware he was the airline’s new owner.
This piece is inspired by stories from the everyday lives of our readers and written by a professional writer. Any resemblance to actual names or locations is purely coincidental. All images are for illustration purposes only. Share your story with us; maybe it will change someone’s life.
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