{"id":601,"date":"2024-09-13T16:25:26","date_gmt":"2024-09-13T14:25:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dev.inkorporated.nl\/?p=601"},"modified":"2024-09-15T18:04:09","modified_gmt":"2024-09-15T16:04:09","slug":"piercing-aftercare-12-steps-to-take-care-of-your-new-piercing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/inkorporated.nl\/en\/piercing-aftercare-12-steps-to-take-care-of-your-new-piercing\/","title":{"rendered":"Piercing aftercare – 12 steps to take care of your new piercing"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Getting a new piercing is exciting, but taking care of it is just as important. After all, your skin has been pierced, which means it needs time to heal properly. Without the right care, you risk infections or even losing the piercing if the hole closes up. To help you avoid that, we\u2019ve put together 12 easy steps for the best piercing aftercare!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n
    \n
  1. Clean regularly
    <\/strong>Keeping your piercing clean is an absolute must for smooth healing. Especially in spots like your ears, where you might not always think to give extra attention. Twice a day, gently apply a saline solution\u2014emphasis on gently. No scrubbing allowed! Just let the solution do its thing, wiping away any dirt or oil. And whatever you do, don\u2019t pick at those scabs! We know it’s tempting but they\u2019re part of the healing process and will fall off when they\u2019re ready. Picking at them can mess with the skin underneath.

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Good hygiene
    <\/strong>Good hygiene is key, and while it\u2019s best to leave your piercing alone as much as possible, cleaning it is a must. Before you do, though, wash your hands\u2014every time! Your hands carry way more bacteria than you think, and touching your piercing with dirty hands can lead to infection. So, make it a habit: clean hands first, then take care of your piercing. Simple, but super important!

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Shower carefully
    <\/strong>Shower time needs a bit of extra care when you\u2019ve got a new piercing. While keeping it clean is important, blasting it with a strong showerhead or soaking it in soap and shampoo isn\u2019t the best idea. Soap and shampoo aren\u2019t great for open wounds like piercings. Depending on where your piercing is, some spills might be unavoidable, but no worries\u2014just rinse it off quickly. You can still enjoy your shower, just go easy on the piercing!

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Use a special piercing aftercare
    <\/strong>You might want to consider using a special piercing aftercare product. While not absolutely necessary, these cleaners are made specifically for piercings, avoiding harsh chemicals and packed with antimicrobial properties to fight off bacteria. Regular saline solution works just fine, but these specialty products are designed to reduce the risk of infection and are gentle on your skin. If you’re looking for a little extra peace of mind, they\u2019re worth the investment!

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. Avoid moisturizers and other chemical products
    <\/strong>It\u2019s best to steer clear of any chemical products near your piercing until it\u2019s fully healed. That means no moisturizers, alcohol-based cleansers, Neosporin, or Bactine\u2014these can irritate the skin and cause inflammation. And, as tempting as it might be, avoid using makeup around the piercing area for at least a few weeks. Keep it simple, and let your piercing heal without any extra fuss!

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  6. Avoid moisturizers and other chemical products
    <\/strong>We recommend not using any chemical products near the piercing until full recovery. This includes moisturizers, and cleansers containing alcohol, Neosporin or Bactin. These can cause irritation to the skin around the piercing and cause it to inflame. Also avoid using makeup around the piercing for at least several weeks.

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  7. Don’t change your jewelry too quickly<\/strong>
    <\/div>Thinking about changing your jewelry too soon? Hold off! Swapping out your piercing jewelry too early can cause the wound to close up quickly and disrupt the healing process. For most piercings, you should wait at least 6 weeks before making a change, and cartilage piercings can take even longer\u2014sometimes months. If you\u2019re eager to switch things up, consult your piercer. They can check how well it\u2019s healing and advise you on the best time to change your jewelry. Patience now will save you from potential complications later!

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  8. Don’t swim<\/strong>
    You might be surprised, but it\u2019s best to skip swimming for a few weeks after getting a new piercing. Chlorine might kill bacteria, but it can also irritate your freshly pierced skin. Trust us, exposing your new piercing to chlorinated water isn\u2019t going to feel great. Aim to wait at least 2 weeks, but ideally, keep it out of the water until it\u2019s fully healed. Your piercing will thank you for the extra patience!

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  9. Avoid sleeping on your piercing<\/strong>
    One of the most common ways you can damage the skin around a piercing is to accidentally sleep on it. Sleeping on your piercing can be a major no-no. Putting pressure on it while you sleep can cause pain, irritation, and even shift the piercing, messing with the healing process. If you\u2019re a side or stomach sleeper, it might be time to get creative with pillows to keep yourself in a better position. A tip from us! Consider using a travel pillow to support your neck and keep your piercing away from the mattress. A little extra effort while you sleep can make a big difference in how well your piercing heals!

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  10. No alcohol (for 24 hours)<\/strong>
    Thinking about celebrating your new piercing with a drink? It\u2019s best to hold off for at least 24 hours. Alcohol thins your blood, which can make it harder for your piercing to clot and might lead to more bleeding and pain. Plus, you might not be as careful with your piercing after a few drinks. So, take a short break from alcohol until your piercing starts to heal properly. Your body\u2014and your new piercing\u2014will appreciate it!

    <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  11. Wear loose clothing<\/strong>
    No matter where your piercing is, tight clothing can be a real hassle. It can irritate your skin whether you\u2019re getting dressed or undressed. For the first few days, opt for loose clothing to avoid any unnecessary friction. If your piercing is on your ear or face, go for tops with a wide neckline that you can slip on and off without bumping into your piercing. Keep it comfy and irritation-free while your piercing heals!
    <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
    \"piercing-aftercare-tips\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    Specific tips per piercing<\/strong>
    Here are some quick tips for keeping different piercings happy and healthy:
    <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Ear piercings
    <\/strong>Sleep with a travel pillow to avoid pressure, and steer clear of headphones that press on your ear. Use a gentle shower setting to wash away dirt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Nose<\/strong>
    Skip face creams and makeup, and be extra careful when blowing your nose if you\u2019ve got a cold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Septum
    <\/strong>Avoid nasal sprays (stick to saline solutions) and steer clear of twisting the jewelry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Lip<\/strong>
    Keep away from makeup like lipstick and lip liner, and avoid acidic or spicy foods that can sting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Nipple piercing
    <\/strong>Skip body creams and tight clothing, and avoid lacy bras or any fabric that might snag on your piercing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Genital Piercing
    <\/strong>No lubricants or sex until the piercing is fully healed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Skin\/Surface
    <\/strong>Avoid body sprays and creams around the piercing site, and be mindful of bag straps to prevent rubbing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Piercing Aftercare<\/strong> – a quick recap!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    <\/p>\n\n\n\n