More than six in 10 people believe tattoos are a ‘key part of their identity’

More than six in 10 people believe their tattoos form a key part of their identity, reflecting Brits’ bold, maverick spirit. A poll of 1,000 adults with tattoos found three in 10 tattoos are completely spur-of-the-moment decisions, according to research. For 17%, their most recent piece of ink was done on the same day they decided to get one, with 6% of these even happening within an hour.

The survey explored the confidence it takes for many to make a lasting permanent statement about what matters to them, with 31% making this spontaneous decision when they were with friends, and 30% doing so on holiday.

The survey was commissioned ahead of a free IRN-BRU tattoo pop-up in Glasgow this weekend, where brave Scots are getting the brand’s new can designs inked onto their bodies celebrating the drink’s 125th anniversary and refreshed packaging.

Kenny Nicholson from IRN-BRU, which has brought back its iconic ‘Made in Scotland from Girders’ strapline and classic emblem, said: “For 125 years, we’ve proudly been Made in Scotland from Girders.

“With our first-ever tattoo pop-up, everyone has the chance to show what they love in true style.

“We know that many fans already have tattoos inspired by what matters most to them, so whether it’s ‘tat-two’ or a first piece of body art, this is all about celebrating our history, our refreshed look, and the people who make it so special.

“We can’t wait to see people double down on their girders and toast to the exciting year ahead.”

More than half of the people polled said they use tattoos as a way to show off their commitment to something they love, with 33% tributing their body art to parents, 24% to their dogs and 23% to their favourite band.

But Brits don’t just have traditional inspirations, as one in five (21%) have opted for designs inspired by cartoon characters, while others have paid tribute to memes (11%) and even their favourite food (7%).

A portrait of Harry Potter, insects and even ‘my favourite ex’ are among the more unconventional tattoos people have chosen to proudly wear.

The study also found body art can have a powerful emotional impact, with 41% saying their ink makes them feel more like themselves, while 31% feel more creative and 17% more rebellious.

Despite outside opinions, most remain confident in their choices – with only 25% admitting they regret a tattoo, even though 41% have been told they would. Parents (41%), friends (25%), and colleagues (14%) were the most likely people to question their body art decisions – but many have proven the doubters wrong.

Nearly four in 10 (37%) believe people are more likely to regret a drunken text than a tattoo, according to the OnePoll.com figures.

The UK’s most passionate city when it comes to body ink is London, where 64% of those surveyed admitted to having a tattoo of something they love, with Wales following closely behind at 63%. More than half (55%) also believe that getting permanent ink is a brave way to show what you love, with over 70% of Londoners strongly agreeing.

While some tattoos are decided quickly, they are still rooted in meaning – with 10% saying even their most spontaneous one represents something they genuinely care about.

Kenny Nicholson added: “There’s no clearer way to show your love for something than making it part of who you are.

“Whether it’s a person, a place, or even your favourite drink, tattoos are a celebration of individuality – and we love seeing how people choose to express that.”