Did you know it takes up to a year before piercing holes heal completely? It is during this healing period that most people develop allergies, such as nickel allergies and other infections. The idea of getting a piercing is always exciting. Getting a piercing means that you will be able to wear jewelry that complements your style. Anybody can get a piercing, from a baby to an adult male. The piercing process is usually handled by a professional. However, it doesn’t end there. Taking care of your piercing so it can heal properly is your responsibility. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t take piercing aftercare lightly.
1. To ensure proper healing
After getting your piercing, you usually get a set of aftercare instructions from your piercer. The instructions are generally pretty standard. However, it is essential to keep in mind that different people react differently to piercings. Some people’s healing journey might be without any irritation or allergies and vice versa. It is, therefore, vital that you choose the right service provider to get your piercing. The process must, first of all, be professionally done with the right tools. The right tools are inclusive of the earrings used during the process. Safe earrings are essential to wear during the healing period. Safe earrings are usually nickel free earring.
2. To avoid irritation and other allergies
It might be your first time getting a piercing but not your first-time wearing jewelry. That said, you must have some idea of what type of jewelry reacts with your skin. Earrings and other jewelry often cause a nickel allergy. Besides nickel allergies, your piercing might get infected or swollen for one reason or the other. One of the most critical steps of piercing aftercare is to clean your piercings at least twice a day with liquid soap. Always make sure your hands are clean before touching and cleaning your piercings. Also, try and avoid swimming for 6 to 12 weeks. If you have to go for a swim, make sure you wash your piercing with water and liquid soap afterward. You can also use piercing aftercare products such as the Blomdahl piercing aftercare swabs.
3. Prevent blockage
Some people usually let this happen intentionally, or it might be how their body is built. The blockage usually happens when you leave the hole without an earring for too long. During the healing process, you should avoid exchanging your jewelry too often. It is advisable to refrain from removing the original jewelry, at least for the first few weeks. If you follow all the aftercare instructions and maintain proper hygiene throughout the process, then you should heal pretty quickly. It is not safe to exchange jewelry when the wound is still fresh.
Some things are normal during the healing process, such as itching, some whitish-yellow fluid, and a little discoloration. Keep in mind that a piercing might seem healed, but it is still delicate on the inside. This is because tissue first heals on the outside. Either way, always keep the area clean, dry, and airy.
For more information on how to care for your newly pierced ears, please click here.