Tattoos

A Look at Miley Cyrus’ Tattoos and Her Tattoo Regrets

Tattoos are the ultimate form of self-expression, with plenty of celebrities covering themselves in elaborate ink; however, the “tattoo boom” isn’t the only trend the industry is experiencing. Tattoo removal has steadily increased in popularity over the years, along with people opening up about their tattoo regrets on social media.

The term “tattoo regret,” is exactly what it sounds like: tattoos on our body that we simply don’t identify with anymore. It could be someone with a tattoo of an ex’s name, or a soon-to-be bride that feels their wedding look would be better off ink-free. Tattoo regret is out there, and very real—Miley Cyrus being one of the many people feeling overwhelmed by past tattoo decisions.

A Look at Miley’s Iconic Ink

Miley began her tattoo journey in 2010, with a script piece dedicated to her late friend and grandfathers. The tattoo, daintily placed on her upper ribcage says, “just breathe.” A subtle, yet beautiful way to honor her loved ones’ battles with lung disease. Soon after this initial tattoo, Miley added more to the collection: a script tattoo that says “love,” a heart, and a small cross. In 2011, Miley got her 5th tattoo and arguably one of her most notable pieces—a dreamcatcher. The Native American-inspired tattoo serves as a protection symbol for her 4 siblings and resides on her ribcage. Miley quickly became a tattoo collector, covering herself in news-worthy ink for the last decade. Some of these tattoos were inspired by ex-lovers, while others were seemingly just because. Now, the pop star has over 74 tattoos in total.

Here are a few of Miley’s most popular tattoos and their meanings

Miley's Hand Tattoo

Since she has 74 tattoos, there might be too many Miley tattoos to list here. But to cap us off, Miley does have a handful of tattoos on her fingers and hands. Check them out.

Miley's Rib Tattoo

Miley got her first tattoo when

Miley's Side Tattoo

One of Miley’s biggest tattoos is the dream catcher that’s tattooed on her side. The tattoo is meant to symbolize the protection of her four siblings.

Miley's Back Tattoo

Yoko Ono wrote “I’m proud of u” to Miley, and it meant so much to her that she had it tattooed on her back.

Miley's Ankle Tattoo

Miley is no stranger to matching tattoos, and got one with friend and SNL star, Pete Davidson. The tattoo says “We Babies” and the two of them had it inked in 2017.

How Miley Is Dealing with Tattoo Regret

In June 2025, Miley sat down with the New York Times for their famed The Interview series. The former Disney Channel star revealed one of her greatest life mistakes: 80% of her tattoos. “I don’t regret them enough to laser them,” said Miley. “There’s just a few that I could do without.” Miley pointed out a handful of the relevant tattoos, one of them being a smaller-scale portrait of her Pitbull. “I love my dog, but having a Pitbull in every picture for the rest of my life is kinda intense.” Miley’s perspective on tattoo regret poses a not-so-common discussion for the tattoo world: tattoo regret doesn’t always lead to removal. You could still like a tattoo on your body, but perhaps conditionally—and that’s okay.

Tattoo Regret Doesn’t Always Mean Removal

Tattoo regret looks different for everyone. Some people choose to keep their tattoos as reminders of a different time in their life, even if they wouldn’t make the same decision today. Others prefer to update or cover old tattoos with new artwork.

For those who want a more permanent solution, laser tattoo removal offers a way to gradually erase unwanted ink. Modern laser technology breaks down tattoo pigment so the body can naturally remove it over time.

With professional laser tattoo removal, many tattoos can be significantly faded or completely removed, allowing people to move forward with a clean slate if they choose.

Considering Tattoo Removal?

If you’re experiencing tattoo regret, you’re not alone. Many people eventually decide to fade or remove tattoos that no longer fit their lives or personal style.

Professional laser tattoo removal can help you safely remove unwanted ink while protecting the health of your skin. With expert specialists and advanced laser technology, the process is designed to gradually break down tattoo pigment with minimal risk.

At Removery, specialists provide personalized treatment plans designed to help clients move forward with confidence – whether that means fading a tattoo for a cover-up or removing it completely. Book a consultation to see exactly what your tattoo removal journey will look like.

Get your free estimate

We’re on a mission to give you the most straightforward, easy and efficient laser tattoo removal experience. Your estimate will be entirely bespoke to your tattoo; the size, the colors, the ink. It won’t take long and afterwards you’ll have a plan to finally get rid of your unwanted tattoo and get back to being you.

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