Recently, some BodySparkle customers have brought to our attention some concerns about new piercings not healing properly. Although it can be tempting to change a new piercing as soon as the swelling stops, keep in mind that changing it might actually make it swell again, or worse, cause infection.
To help you keep your piercing clean and healed properly, here’s a list of general do’s and don’ts for most common piercings.
General Care — Ear, Belly, Nose & Nipple Piercings
DO: Always wash hands before contact with piercing.
DON’T: Use rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide. Both slow the healing process by drying and killing new, healthy cells.
DO: Use mild antiseptic products to clean the surrounding skin (any non-perfumed liquid antibacterial soap will work). You can dilute it with water if the soap is too harsh.
* Twice daily, saturate a cotton swab/Q-Tip with cleaning solution, apply to the pierced area, and soak for a few minutes.
* Remove any dried matter, and rotate the jewelry while still wet.
DON’T: Use bacitracin or other ointments.
DO: Use salt soaks to clean rings/studs. Try a ¼ teaspoon of sea salt dissolved in 8-oz of warm water.
Typical Healing Time for Piercings
Ear (above the lobe): 12-16 weeks
Nose: 12-24 weeks
Belly button: 6-12 months
Nipples: 6-8 weeks
Tongue, Cheek, or Lips: 6-8 weeks
Genitals: 6-10 weeks
Source: Tang Center at Cal, UC Berkeley
The information above is regarding general care of body piercings and may not be complete. It is for general use and should not be considered medical advice. If you are having any trouble with your piercing, we recommend consulting a doctor or piercing professional immediately, and taking the piercing jewelry out of the piercing if the condition is severe.
If you have other questions or concerns, please feel free to leave a comment or contact us at info@bodysparkle.com.
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