Aftercare for Body Piercings
What is normal?
Minor pain and swelling
For a few days after the piercing, the wound will be accompanied by mild pain and swelling. This pain and swelling will peak within one to three days and then gradually decrease. In most cases, these symptoms will improve significantly within a week. However, the exact duration varies depending on the individual's constitution and the location of the piercing.
Slight exudation
In the early stages of a piercing, there will be a small amount of clear or yellowish exudate. The piercing is actually an open wound and during the healing process the lymphatic system produces fluid to help clean the wound and promote healing, the exudate also contains some white blood cells, which are part of the body's immune system and help to fight potential infections.
Blush
A slight redness appears around the piercing, but should not extend. After a piercing, the body produces an inflammatory response to encourage healing. This response includes an increase in blood flow to the injured area to provide more oxygen and nutrients to help repair damaged tissue.
Healing process
During the healing period, there may be a slight itching sensation. During this process, the body produces new skin cells and nerve endings are gradually restored, the regeneration and repair of the skin may cause the itchiness.
What is abnormal?
Seek medical attention as soon as possible and consult a doctor for professional advice if any of the following occurs
Stab
If the pain gets worse, it could mean an infection or other complication.
Markedly red and swollen
Significant swelling and redness accompanied by pain, especially in areas that extend beyond the perforation, need to be taken seriously.
Pus or odor
If there is pus, an odor, or a change in color, it may be a sign of infection.
Fever
If the perforated area is accompanied by generalized fever, it may indicate infection.
Bleeding
Persistent or heavy bleeding after perforation requires immediate medical attention.
Allergic reaction
If you experience intense itching, rashes or lumps, you may be allergic to the material.
Basic cleaning program
Daily Cleaning
The piercing site needs to be cleaned daily during the early stages of recovery to maintain hygiene and prevent infection.
Use mild detergents
You can use fragrance-free antibacterial soap and warm water, or rinse with sterile sea salt water. Sterile sea salt water can be purchased at a drugstore or you can make your own.
Do not move or twist the jewelry
Do not move or rotate the jewelry during the cleaning process as this may irritate the piercing and interfere with healing.
Keep the piercing area dry
After cleaning you can use disposable cotton swabs or gauze to dry the rinse and carefully remove any surrounding discharge.
Wash hands thoroughly before cleaning
Your hands can carry harmful bacteria, so be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap or hand sanitizer before cleaning and touching your piercing.
Homemade sterile sea salt water: Prepare non-iodized sea salt or salt without additives and boiled and cooled water, distilled water is better if you have it. Proportion the sea salt according to 5 grams per 240 ml and stir to dissolve.
10 Essential Do's and Don'ts
- Wash your hands before touching the piercing area and try not to touch the piercing at any time other than to clean it.
- During the healing period, do not rotate turn your jewelry, and do not change it.
- Sleep in the proper position and do not press on the piercing.
- Avoid swimming activities during this period, which can cause bacterial invasion and infection.
- Showers are better than baths, and bathtubs may not be cleaned thoroughly enough to harbor bacteria.
- You can exercise and sweat during the healing period but be careful not to pull or rub the piercing.
- Do not over-clean the piercing; once a day is sufficient.
- Don't use ointments without an infection because they can block necessary air circulation.
- Do not reapply all beauty and personal care products around the piercing, including makeup, lotions and sprays.
- Maintaining a good mood and adequate nutritional intake will help with recovery.
For specific perforation care
perforated tongue
Maintain oral hygiene
Brush and rinse your teeth half an hour after a meal to avoid food debris from entering the piercing. Be careful not to touch the piercing with the toothbrush during brushing, and when choosing a mouthwash you should avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol or use saline rinses.
Pay attention to your diet.
Avoid alcohol, tobacco and all spicy and acidic foods during this time to prevent irritation of the piercing site and slow down the healing time. Hard foods should also be avoided, and mild soft foods should be chosen whenever possible to minimize pressure and friction on the piercing.
Recovery from a tongue piercing is usually 4-6 weeks, and pain may last up to a month and diminish over time.
Perforation of the umbilicus
In addition to daily cleaning, the wound at the umbilical location is susceptible to friction from clothing, so wear loose-fitting clothing whenever possible. Additionally you can use a rigid breathable eye mask (available at drugstores) to protect your piercing from overstimulation, physical trauma from activities such as exercise, or tight clothing.
nipple piercing
For the first few weeks you may need to wear loose cotton shirts in order to ensure better ventilation at the piercing. Also you can wear a bra one size larger to avoid nipple chafing.