Piercing Aftercare

The piercing procedure involves breaking the surface of the skin, so there is always the risk of infection occurring afterward. Your piercing should be treated as a wound initially. 

To ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection, it is crucial to follow these instructions for piercing aftercare: ​ 

Maintain Cleanliness:

Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching or cleaning your piercing to prevent the spread of bacteria and germs. ​Avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands at all costs. ​ 

Avoid Water and Certain Activities:

For the first 30 days, refrain from exposing your piercing to rivers, lakes, streams, pools, hot tubs, bathtubs, oceans, water parks, tanning beds, or spray tans. ​Showers are acceptable during this period. Do not apply oils or lotions to your piercing. ​ 

Avoid Harmful Substances:

Never use alcohol, peroxide, ear cleaning solution, contact solutions, nasal sprays, Neosporin, Vaseline, A&D Ointment, or any other petroleum-based salve on your piercing. ​ 

Proper Cleaning:

The best place to clean your piercing is in the shower. ​Allow clean warm water to run over the piercing, helping to remove dry, crusty discharge. ​ 

Drying:

Avoid using bath towels or cloths to dry your piercing, as they can harbor bacteria. ​Instead, use a paper towel or cotton round to dry the area. ​ 

Saline Solution:

Clean and your piercing with saline solution 1-2 times a day throughout the estimated healing period specific to your piercing. ​Remember, this is only the initial healing period, and complete healing may take weeks or months.  

Normal Healing Process:

It is normal for a new piercing to experience intermittent bleeding for a few days. ​Temporary bruising or discoloration may occur due to bleeding beneath the surface. ​Some tenderness or discomfort in the area is also common. ​A liquid, yellowish secretion may be observed, which consists of blood plasma, lymph, and dead cells. ​ This is a normal part of the healing process and not a sign of infection. ​ 

Jewelry Maintenance:

Check your jewelry daily to ensure the heads/balls are secure. ​Avoid twisting or playing with your jewelry, as this can prolong healing and lead to infection. ​ 

Downsizing:

Most piercings will require longer jewelry initially to allow for room to swell. It is crucial that these be downsized in a timely manner to keep your piercing from migrating.  

Remember, each individual's body is unique, and healing times can vary significantly. ​ It is essential to be patient and continue following the cleaning routine during the initial healing period, even if the piercing appears healed sooner. ​ If you have any questions, please call us.