Piercing Aftercare

Taking care of a new body piercing is crucial to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.

TYPICAL SIGNS OF PROPER HEALING:

1. Reduced Swelling: Initially after getting pierced, some swelling is normal, but as the piercing heals, the swelling should gradually decrease.
2. Reduced Pain and Sensitivity: While there might be some tenderness and sensitivity in the initial days or weeks, the piercing should become less painful and sensitive over time.
3. Reduced Redness: The skin around the piercing might be slightly red immediately after the piercing, but this should decrease over time as the piercing heals.
4. Reduced Discharge: Initially, there might be some clear or slightly whitish discharge, which is a normal part of the healing process. As the piercing heals, this discharge should decrease and become clearer.
5. Formation of a Crust: A small amount of crust or dried discharge around the jewelry is normal during the healing process. This is the body's natural way of protecting the piercing as it heals.
6. No Heat or Excessive Pain: The area around the piercing should not feel excessively warm, and there should not be persistent or increasing pain.

GENERAL BODY PIERCING AFTERCARE:

DO:
1. Clean the piercing: Use a saline solution or mild, fragrance-free soap to clean the piercing site and jewelry twice a day.
2. Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the piercing site with clean water to remove any soap residue.
3. Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the piercing.
4. Be patient: Healing times vary, so be patient and follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer.

DON'T:
1. Don't touch the piercing unnecessarily: Avoid unnecessary touching or rotating of the jewelry, as this can introduce bacteria and delay healing.
2. Avoid harsh products: Do not use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh cleaning solutions, as they can irritate the piercing.
3. Avoid swimming/bathing: Refrain from swimming in pools, hot tubs, bathing, or natural bodies of water until the piercing is fully healed.
4. Don't remove the jewelry prematurely: Removing the jewelry before the piercing is fully healed can lead to complications and closure of the piercing.

PROBLEMS OR ISSUES - WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
- Signs of infection: Such as increased redness, swelling, pain, warmth, or discharge that is yellow, green, or foul-smelling.
- Excessive irritation: If the site becomes excessively irritated or painful, consult your piercer or a healthcare professional.
- Allergic reactions: Watch for any signs of allergic reactions to the jewelry, such as redness, itching, or rash.

HEALING TIMES FOR DIFFERENT PIERCINGS:
- Earlobe: 6 to 8 weeks
- Cartilage (ear, nose, etc.): 4 months to 1 year
- Navel: 6 months to 1 year
- Tongue: 4 to 8 weeks
- Lip: 2 to 3 months
- Nipple: 3 to 6 months
- Genital (varies by location): 4 to 12 months