10 Expert Tips for Waxing Over Tattooed Skin
Tattoos can be deeply personal and emotional works of art, cherished by those who wear them. For beauty professionals, waxing over tattooed skin requires a high level of care to protect the ink and ensure client comfort. Here are some tips to keep your clients’ skin looking its best, even after they’ve been inked.
How Waxing Over Tattoos Is Different
Waxing over tattooed skin requires a different approach than waxing over non-tattooed skin. The inked area is already sensitive and may have scarring, making it more susceptible to irritation and damage during the waxing process. In addition, the presence of pigment in the skin can affect how the wax adheres and removes hair. With these factors in mind, below are some expert tips for waxing over tattooed skin.
Avoid Waxing Over a New Tattoo
You shouldn’t ever wax over a new tattoo, as the skin needs time to heal, and the ink needs time to settle. The pulling motion of waxing can disrupt this process and potentially cause damage or distortion to the tattoo. Wait until the tattoo is fully healed before waxing over it. This may take several weeks, so be sure to communicate this to your clients and offer alternative hair removal options in the meantime.
Communication Is Key
Be sure to communicate openly with your clients when waxing over tattooed skin. Ask them about any concerns or sensitivities they may have, and be sure to explain the process thoroughly so they know what to expect. Encourage them to speak up if they experience any discomfort during the waxing session. By establishing good communication, you can ensure a positive experience for your clients and protect their tattooed skin.
Perform Sensitivity Tests
Before waxing over tattooed skin, it’s always best to do a sensitivity test on a small area first. This will help you determine if the client will have any adverse reactions or sensitivities to the wax. If there are any signs of irritation, such as excessive redness or swelling, do not proceed with the waxing service. This will help prevent any potential damage to the client’s tattoo and ensure their comfort during the session.
Choose the Right Wax
While waxing won’t damage healed tattoos, it can negatively impact the healing process of fresh tattoos. Choosing the right wax is crucial to minimize any potential damage. Use a gentle, low-temperature or soft wax for tattooed skin. These types of waxes are less harsh on the skin and allow for a more controlled application, reducing the risk of irritation or injury to the tattoo.
Do Pre-Wax Preparation
Before waxing over a tattoo, make sure to properly clean and disinfect the area. This will prevent any bacteria from transferring onto the skin and potentially causing an infection or damaging the tattoo (as will using a clean applicator each time you dip into the wax). Additionally, gently exfoliating the skin can help remove any dead skin cells and oils that may prevent the wax from adhering properly.
Apply Petroleum Jelly to the Tattoo Before Waxing
Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or barrier cream over the tattoo before waxing can create a protective barrier between the skin and the wax. This will help prevent any unnecessary pulling or irritation on the tattooed area.
Technique Matters
When waxing over a tattoo, pay attention to your technique. Avoid going over the same area multiple times, as this can cause unnecessary irritation. Instead, apply the wax in thin layers and remove it with one quick pull in the direction of hair growth. This will minimize discomfort for your client.
Additionally, make sure to apply gentle pressure on the skin immediately after removing the wax, as this will help soothe and calm any potential redness or irritation.
Keep the Tattoo Hydrated
After a waxing session, it’s important to keep the tattoo hydrated. This will help prevent any dryness or flaking that can affect the appearance of the ink. Advise your clients to use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer on their tattooed skin daily to maintain its health and vibrancy. Remind them to avoid using any products with harsh chemicals or exfoliants, as these can damage the tattoo. By keeping the skin hydrated, you can help your clients preserve the beauty of their ink.
Ensure Proper Hygiene and Aftercare
Stress to your clients the importance of proper hygiene and aftercare for tattooed skin. Advise them to avoid touching or picking at their freshly waxed tattoo, as this can introduce bacteria and potentially lead to infection. They should also avoid tight clothing and excessive sweating for at least 24 hours after their waxing session to prevent irritation or ingrown hairs. Remind them to keep the area clean and dry and to avoid using harsh products, such as perfumes or scented lotions, on the tattooed skin. By following these precautions, your clients can maintain the health and beauty of their tattooed skin after the waxing session.
Schedule New Sessions Wisely
Waxing over tattooed skin requires extra care and attention, so wisely scheduling new sessions is important. Avoid scheduling waxing appointments too close to each other, as this can cause unnecessary irritation and damage to the tattoo. Give the skin enough time to heal and recover before waxing over the same area again. This will help maintain the integrity of the tattoo and ensure client satisfaction with the results. Encourage your clients to communicate with you about their waxing schedule and make sure they are not overdoing it.
Follow these expert tips when waxing over tattooed skin, and you’ll ensure your clients’ ink stays beautiful and their skin stays smooth. And if you need high-quality waxing products that are gentle on tattooed skin, check out Lash and Beauty Store!
Lash and Beauty Store is more than just a lash store. With our selection of Jax Wax products, we’ve got your back—and your tattooed client’s back. These waxes are specially formulated for sensitive skin, making them perfect for waxing over tattoos. With their low melting points and gentle ingredients, you can feel confident your clients’ skin and ink are in safe hands.
