Piercing Aftercare

What to expect:
The body treats piercings like any other injury, so it is normal for swelling, tenderness, minor bleeding, and even some bruising to occur in the first few days/weeks. A crusty substance (consisting mainly of lymphatic fluid) will form around the jewelry and will need to be cleaned daily. Cold compresses and ibuprofen can help ease inflammation during this period (I suggest popsicles for oral piercings!). After the initial healing period when swelling subsides, you may notice that you see more of your jewelry than before, and that means it’s time to downsize! Personalized details for you will be provided at the time of your service.

Cleaning your piercing:
-Start by washing your hands thoroughly
-Spray the piercing with a sterile saline solution (can be purchased from me or found at most stores, and should contain water and sodium chloride) and let it soak to soften the crusties.
-After a minute or so, gently wipe away the softened crusties and debris with a clean paper towel, gauze, or tightly woven cotton bud (no cloth towels).
-Repeat this cleaning process twice daily (clean, running water in the shower can count as one of these! Be sure to pat dry.)
-Most oral piercings follow this same cleaning procedure with the addition of an alcohol-free mouthwash to be used 2-3 times daily, especially after meals, smoking, or drinking anything that isn’t water.

That’s pretty much it!
Aside from cleaning, you want to touch it as little as possible. Saline and clean water only: no peroxide, alcohol, ointments, or oils. Less is more!

Healing “Do NOTs”:
-Twist or fidget with jewelry. Excess movement irritates the piercing and can affect healing
-Swim in public water (pools, hot tubs, natural bodies of water)
-Sleep with wet hair on fresh ear piercings
-Sleep *on* fresh ear piercings (travel neck pillows or “piercing pillows” are great for side-sleepers)
-Change/remove jewelry without professional help (I’d be happy to help!)
-Apply makeup over a healing piercing