piercing After Care

Daily Cleaning Routine

1.  Frequency: Clean the area 2 times per day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
2.  Solution: Use a sterile saline wound wash (I carry Pierce Med but you can buy a sterile saline at any pharmacy). Do not use homemade salt mixtures, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh soaps, as these can irritate the tissue and delay healing.
3.  Method: Spray the saline directly onto the piercing or saturate a piece of sterile gauze and gently wipe away any dried discharge or "crusties." Gently pat the area dry with a clean, disposable paper towel.
4. For Oral Piercings: Continue regular oral hygiene. Use alcohol free mouth wash anytime a substance other than water is consumed. Use the saline solution for the outer lip near the jewelry. 

Important "Don'ts"

1.  Do not touch or twist: Avoid rotating, pulling, or touching the jewelry with unwashed hands. This introduces bacteria and causes physical trauma to the healing tissue.
2.  Avoid Submersion: Steer clear of swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, or long baths until the piercing is fully healed, as these can harbor bacteria.
3.  Skip the Chemicals: Avoid applying ointments, lotions, perfumes, or makeup directly on or around the piercing.
4.  Watch the Clothing: Be mindful of tight clothing or accessories (like headphones or hats) that may snag, rub, or put pressure on the jewelry.
5. Avoid Exchanging Bodily Fluids: Outside bacteria can cause issues with healing and can cause infection so its best to avoid exchanging bodily fluids with others on or around the new piercing. 

What to Expect:

It is normal to experience some minor swelling, light bruising, or slight redness in the first few days. You may also see a small amount of clear or pale yellow fluid (lymph) that dries into a crust, this is a normal part of the body's healing response.