Can You Wax Over A Tattoo?

Waxing over a tattoo - can we do that? Is it advisable? Will it ruin my tattoo and its longevity? Don't worry – there are no silly questions here; we’ve got you covered! Let’s take a look into waxing and what it entails when it comes to tattoos. 

Is waxing safe for your tattoo?

You’re probably here because you’re trying to figure out waxing and how (or if) it interferes with your tattoo. Well, if you’re wondering if waxing is safe on a fully healed tattoo, the answer is yes! Waxing, shaving, tweezing – even hair removal lotion is safe for use on and around your healed tattoos. 

The only time these methods of hair removal become an issue is if your tattoo is fresh or still in around the healing time frame. If your tattoo is around two months old or still in the healing process, it may be best to avoid waxing the skin until fully healed. Waxing prematurely can cause unnecessary strain on the skin which can affect the tattoo healing process. 

Waxing before you get a tattoo

What you may not be thinking of is that waxing a few days before your tattoo appointment may actually be beneficial. If you haven't gotten a tattoo before, or if it’s been a while, you may not know that the area being tattooed needs to be completely clear of hair prior to the artist doing their job. 

Yes, most artists will use a disposable razor to remove the hair if you forget, but removing hair via waxing is going to ensure that the area you want to be tattooed is hair free prior to your appointment. Waxing is also less likely to bump up and produce ingrown hairs like shaving right before your tattoo might. 

Why is waxing safe for areas of skin with tattoos?

If you’re worried about damaging an existing tattoo, there’s no need to fret! In order to understand this a little better, let’s get down to the basics of tattooing and how the ink is deposited into your skin. When an artist is going over your skin with a tattoo machine, the needles pierce your skin past the epidermis and into the dermis itself. The ink will remain within the second layer of skin known as the dermis for the rest of your life. Because waxing only interferes with the top most layer of skin (the epidermis), your tattoo remains untouched. 

The benefits of waxing after you get a tattoo

It may surprise you that there is actually a benefit to waxing your tattoos! Since some waxes remove the top most layer of dead skin, it allows the skin to look fresh and rejuvenated allowing your tattoo to be brought to its full potential. 

Skincare and Aftercare for waxing

Whether you’re getting a brazilian wax, or just trying to touch up under the arms, there are a few basic things to keep in mind before and after your waxing session.

Preparing for your waxing session

Firstly, allow for some hair growth prior to your next appointment. Yes, we know it can be embarrassing for some to let some of that body hair peek through, but it’s important to have at least a quarter inch of hair prior to your next appointment. If the length is not achieved, waxes may be unable to attach to the hair follicle appropriately. 

Second, it is important to implement an exfoliation routine at least a day before your appointment, but no later! This removes any excess oil and dead skin that has built up over time.

Lastly, it is important to resist the urge to shave between sessions. Shaving between sessions interferes with the process of making hair follicles thinner over time, something waxing does naturally. 

Activities to avoid 24 to 48 hours after waxing

If you want to keep your skin smooth and free of bumps and irritation, avoid heavily scented lotions and beauty products for at least 24 hours after your wax. In addition, it is critical to avoid strenuous activity that could make you sweat, or cause friction, including intimacy with a partner. 

This can cause additional irritation and increase the likelihood of bumps and ingrown hairs. Last but certainly not least, the most important thing to avoid is scratching and touching your newly waxed area. We know it can be tempting, especially if you have sensitive skin, but wearing loose fitting clothing and applying cooling remedies will be your best bet moving forward.

The best skincare routine to promote healthy skin

Once you’ve made it past your first 24 to 48 hours, it is still important to keep a regular skincare routine. Ensure that your skin is gently exfoliated and hydrated on a regular basis to sustain your glowing skin. 

Book your waxing appointment at The Wax Room!

No matter what you’re looking to get done, The Wax Room is ready to assist you with your waxing needs. Whether you have a few questions, or want to book an appointment, we’re excited to hear from you!