Can You Wax Your Tattoo?

Making the choice to wax your tattooed skin may seem like a bad idea at first, but honestly it isn't. Waxing occurs by removing hair from the root, and exfoliating (or removing) the top layer of the skin known as the epidermis. As tattoos exist in our second layer of skin, the dermis, waxing doesn't really affect the look of your ink, if that tattoo is completely healed.

In fact, this sort of exfoliation can even be good for your tattoo. According to Refinery29, dead skin cell build-up can actually make your tattoo look faded. By exfoliating or waxing, you remove that skin cell buildup revealing fresher, shinier skin. As Refinery29 puts it, our epidermis is essentially the window to our tattoo that lives on a lower skin level. If the window is "foggy" with dead skin cells then our tattoos are going to look faded or blurred.

Just be sure that your tattoo is fully healed before you start waxing. Freshly inked skin is technically an open wound. Therefore, waxing over that sensitive area can cause severe pain, or even infection. Body modification artist, Maude Coffey explained on EHow.com that the healing process for tattoos can take anywhere from two weeks to a month. During that time, steer clear of any sort of hair removal in order to protect your skin. Coffey goes on to mention that once all of the scabs and peeling skin are gone around your tattoo site, then it's fine to wax the area.

Once your skin has been waxed, be sure to moisturize the area to replenish your skin's natural moisture barrier. Not only will this help to make your skin feel better post-wax, but it can also help to your tattoos looking vivid, according to Inked Magazine. Here are a few lotions and creams that are perfect for keeping your tattooed skin moisturized.

1. Billy Jealousy Marked IV Kit

Kit, $30, billyjealousy.com

This kit has everything you need to make sure that your tattoo stays clean, healthy, and moisturized.

2. Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion

Lotion, $8.69, drugstore.com

Lightweight, unscented lotions are great for keeping your tattooed skin looking and feeling its best.

3. Organic Shea Butter

Shea Butter, $7.99, sheamoisture.com

Give your tattoos a little extra TLC by using organic shea butter to moisture the skin.

Taking care of your tattoo is essential for getting the most out of your investment. Fortunately, waxing the area won't mess up your ink.

Images: Sergey Mironov/Moment/Getty Images; Courtesy Brands