Question #5

Getting a Piercing?

Piercing self-care: A piercing can take a few weeks to several months to fully heal, depending on where it is on your body. Follow directions for care from your piercer, or, if necessary, seek medical care. See When to See a Clinician.

Do not touch the piercing. Do not pick at the piercing or jewelry. Your hands carry germs that can cause infection.

Use a warm sea salt-water soak or a mild liquid antibacterial soap used every day to aid healing and prevent infection.

Oral piercings need to be cared for differently than other piercings. Use an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash to cleanse the area in your mouth.

Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol on piercings. These products can irritate the healing tissue.

Do not use antibiotic ointments, gels, or creams on piercings. They can attract dirt and prevent oxygen from reaching the area.

When to see a clinician: If you suspect infection, see a clinician because untreated infections can lead to further problems. Signs of infection include:

Tattoo: redness and burning beyond the normal healing period
Piercing: discharge of yellow or green pus; deep, dark redness that extends from the piercing; swelling; heat at the site; fever
What is scarification? Scarification usually refers to three kinds of body modifications: cutting, branding and braiding. These body modifications can pose even more risks than tattooing and piercing. You should not try these procedures on yourself or others. Cutting or burning too deeply into the skin can cause serious problems. Studios may do certain types of scarification, but there are still serious health risks involved.