While getting a tattoo is always exciting, there is also a need for careful aftercare. Can you wax over a tattoo is one of the countless questions that can arise after getting a tattoo. This question is crucial because it requires maintaining the delicate balance between maintaining the vibrancy of the tattoo and following proper skin care to remove unwanted hair. In this article, we will explore all the possible perspectives of waxing over a tattoo and weigh the pros and cons. We will cover various topics, from understanding the compatibility of waxing with new tattoos to addressing concerns and providing insights on how to prepare your skin for the process and providing proper care. The article aims to simplify the decision-making process for individuals, whether you are an experienced tattoo enthusiast or a beginner. And while the pros of waxing over a tattoo are undoubtedly greater, it is always better to be thoroughly familiar with the cons. So, without further ado, scroll down to clear all doubts about waxing your body art.
Can you wax over a tattoo?
Yes, waxing over a tattoo is perfectly fine, but only if the tattoo is fully healed. Whether it’s waxing, shaving, or even using depilatory creams, the tattoo ink beneath the epidermis of the skin will not be affected. However, refrain from waxing or other similar procedures on a fresh tattoo, as it is still an open wound that is healing and therefore there is a risk of infection.
Quick tip
If you have sensitive and/or dry skin, choose a good quality hypoallergenic wax enriched with aloe vera.
But why is waxing considered safe for tattooed skin? Let’s take a look at the mechanisms behind this verdict in the section below.
Why is waxing safe for tattooed skin?
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During a tattoo session, the needle with tattoo ink penetrates deep into the skin, past the epidermis and into the dermis. The science behind tattoos makes waxing over it or performing any form of skin care on the top layer of skin (epidermis) inherently safe. Anything applied or performed on the skin will not affect the longevity or appearance of the tattoo, unless it is intended to remove or fade the tattoo. For this reason, waxing over a tattoo is considered a safe move; in fact, there are some benefits to it that make it a viable option. Read more about it below.
Advantages of Waxing Over a Tattoo
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Smooth skin texture: Waxing removes unwanted hair and dead skin cells, unclogging sweat glands and leaving tattooed skin feeling softer.
Improved visibility: Removing body hair around the tattoo allows the intricate design and vibrant colors to shine through.
Long lasting results: Waxing takes longer for the hairs to grow, which means the tattoo will remain visible for longer.
Reduced Ingrown Hairs: Regular waxing can help prevent ingrown hairs and thus ensure healthier skin around the tattoo.
Light exfoliation: Waxing acts as a natural exfoliant, which can help promote a brighter, more radiant skin tone and improved appearance of tattoos.
Now, you may be wondering whether shaving is as good an idea as waxing, or which is the better option. To understand which one to choose, read the section below.
Should you wax or shave over a tattoo?
Waxing over a tattoo is recommended over shaving for several reasons. Although shaving is safe, there is a risk of nicks, razor bumps, ingrown hairs, and rough and hard hair growth. On the other hand, waxing, as discussed, has many advantages such as long-lasting results, soft skin, fewer ingrown hairs, and a clearer appearance of the skin for a brighter tattoo.
Quick tip
Avoid direct exposure to the sun and wear loose clothing after waxing to allow the delicate skin to breathe and return to its normal state.
Keep scrolling to learn more about waxing vs. shaving before getting a tattoo and which option is best for you.
Should you wax or shave for a tattoo?
While both options are ideal for the actual tattoo session, waxing is generally considered better as it helps remove deep-rooted hairs from the follicles and provides a smooth base for easy tattooing and intricate tattoo designs. It is also a common practice for smaller tattoos, with your professional tattoo artist shaving the affected areas themselves before getting to work.
Now that you know which hair removal method is best for you, read on to find out how to prepare your skin for waxing before getting a tattoo.
Preparing Your Skin for Waxing Before a Tattoo
Make sure your skin is clean and dry before waxing for a tattoo. Gently exfoliate to remove dead skin cells for an effortless waxing experience. Avoid using lotions or hydrating serums; instead, apply a light layer of talcum powder to absorb sweat and oil on your skin that can interfere with waxing.
We’ve covered what preparations you can make before getting a tattoo. Let’s also look at how long you should wait after waxing to get the beautiful body art you desire.
How long should you wait after waxing before getting a tattoo?
After waxing, it is best to wait at least two weeks before getting a tattoo. This allows your skin to heal properly, minimizing skin irritation and the risk of tattoo infections and possible complications. In addition, always consult your tattoo artist and dermatologist for personal advice tailored to your skin type.
Waxing over a tattoo requires a thoughtful approach. While it’s generally not considered a bad idea, it’s recommended to not try it on a fresh tattoo and wait until it’s fully healed. Waxing too soon after getting a tattoo can lead to excessive irritation and damage to the tattoo, which will affect the design and overall appearance. Always prioritize optimal tattoo recovery and indulge in a skincare treatment or use of various skincare products afterwards. Waxing after a tattoo has healed can have a number of benefits, including improving the visibility of the tattoo, combating ingrown hairs, providing buttery-soft skin texture, and enhancing the vibrant colors and lines of the tattoo. So, we hope this article will help you find a balance between effective care and maintaining the overall appearance of your inked design after your tattoo appointment. Finally, always follow a daily tattoo aftercare routine, protect the freshly tattooed tattoo from UV exposure, use only mild soaps for cleansing, avoid tight clothing, and apply moisturizer regularly to keep the skin hydrated and radiant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply wax over a colored ink tattoo?
Yes, waxing over a colored ink tattoo is perfectly fine. Just make sure the procedure is done once the tattoo has fully healed, which is after 5-6 weeks.
Can I wax over a tattoo if I have sensitive skin?
Yes, it is possible to wax sensitive skin if the tattoo has healed properly. However, waxing should be done with extra caution if you have sensitive skin, so do a patch test with the wax to assess the skin and avoid allergic reactions.
Can I wax over a temporary tattoo?
It is not advisable to wax a temporary tattoo because it adheres to the epidermis or top layer of the skin and is not inked deeply. As a result, the design can be removed or damaged by waxing.
Can waxing over a tattoo cause ingrown hairs?
Waxing can contribute to ingrown hairs if done incorrectly, or before the tattoo has fully healed. However, it will not lead to ingrown hairs if done after the tattoo has fully healed and followed by ideal aftercare tips
Can I wax over a tattoo on any part of the body?
While it is fine to wax over a healed tattoo on any part of the body, some areas may be more sensitive than others. Therefore, precautions and a patch test are necessary before waxing.
Key Points
Waxing over a tattoo is considered normal, but should only be performed on a healed tattoo. You should wait 3-7 weeks before performing this care technique, as this is the minimum time required for the tattooed skin to heal. Waxing over tattoos has numerous benefits for the skin, such as smoothing the skin texture, improving the visibility of the tattoo, and reducing the risk of ingrown hairs. Waxing is recommended over shaving when removing hair for tattooing, as shaving can lead to nicks and razor burn.
You should wait a few weeks before waxing your tattoo, but it’s also important to follow the correct technique during this beauty treatment. Watch the video below for the correct way to wax for optimal results!
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