Melanie Griffith has learned a hard lesson about tattoos: Unless you can guarantee you’ll be with him or her forever, it’s best to leave your lover’s name OFF of your body!

The 56-year-old actress recently parted ways with Antonio Banderas. Griffith was married to the 53-year-old actor for eighteen years. Unfortunately after nearly two decades together, the romance went south.

The couple released a joint statement regarding their amicable split in June:

We have thoughtfully and consensually decided to finalize our almost twenty years marriage in a loving and friendly manner honoring and respecting each other, our family and friends and the beautiful time we have spent together

Although Griffith may not be publicly bitter about the divorce, she seems to be very much over her former flame. The actress has engaged in a series of tattoo removal procedures to be rid of her “Antonio” tattoo.

A recent photo of the actress showed her out and about with a bandage over the tattoo.

It was also apparent that her former beau’s name was getting lighter and lighter.

As of now the name “Antonio” is no longer visible, though it appears that Griffith might keep the rest of the heart-shaped tattoo.

Going, going, gone! Melanie Griffith sports bandaged arm after having tattoo removed http://t.co/AuK5Dr1yKY pic.twitter.com/6SubdbbGjl

— Daily Express (@Daily_Express) July 8, 2014

Could Griffith be making the space available for a future love interest? Possibly.

However if the actress is wise, she’ll forget about a new name on her arm to signal a new romance.

Many tattoo-happy individuals will forgo tattooing anyone but “Mom” on them as the decision is actually seen as a kiss of death, almost guaranteeing the relationship will end in a separation. And when you DO break up, it can be especially crappy to see a constant reminder of lost love every time you look in the mirror.

Find out why Melanie Griffith wants this tattoo permanently removed: http://t.co/b2w6L271IF pic.twitter.com/BywbiSuhW2

— HELLO! (@hellomag) July 8, 2014

The removal process may have been painful, but no doubt Griffith is better able to enjoy single life without her ex’s name on her arm.

Image via YouTube