Taking Care of New Body Piercings

Newly pierced body parts need special care to prevent infection. While the most common type, earlobe piercing, is considered the least risky, any body piercing can lead to complications. Piercings done improperly, or not cared for in the right way, can lead to allergic reactions, skin infections, scarring, blood-borne disease or skin tearing.

What to Look for When Considering Body Piercing

Regulations vary state to state when it comes to who can do piercings. Go to a reputable piercing studio and look for:

-piercers who wear protective gloves
-a clean environment
-fresh needles used for each piercing
-an autoclave (heat sterilizing equipment) to clean all non-disposable equipment

Ask questions before the piercing and leave the establishment if something doesn’t meet the above requirements. Disease such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, tetanus and HIV — the virus that causes AIDS, can be transferred to individuals through unclean or improperly cleaned piercing equipment. Also, make sure that quality hypo-allergenic jewelry is available. Surgical grade steel, titanium or 14 or 18 karat gold jewelry should be used for new piercings.

How to Care for New Body Piercings

Pierced skin needs to be kept clean and free of germs. Ear piercing studios generally give an ear care solution with instructions for keeping the area clean. Any antibacterial soap can be used on other body piercings. Piercings of the cheek, tongue or lips require an antibacterial, alcohol-free rinse after every meal. A new toothbrush should also be used to reduce the introduction of germs to the area. Avoid touching the jewelry or the newly pierced area to keep the area clear of germs. The jewelry should stay in place for at least six weeks while the area heals. Removing jewelry before that time may result in the hole closing up.

Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling and tenderness to the site or a thick discharge from the hole. Fever, nausea and chills soon after a piercing may also indicate disease. Consult a doctor if any of these symptoms develop as it is important to catch an infection early. Minor infection may be treated with antibiotic ointments, warm compresses or sea salt soaks.

As body piercings increase in popularity among all age groups, care must be taken prior to, and following, the procedure. Choosing a reputable piercer and knowing the signs of infection or other medical issues are the keys to a successful piercing experience.