Whether it’s your first piercing or your fifteenth, what you do after you leave the studio is just as important as the piercing itself. Aftercare is the foundation of a successful healing journey. One that keeps your body happy, your piercing healthy, and your jewelry looking great.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about healing your new piercing: what’s normal, what to avoid, and how to give your body the best chance to heal smoothly and safely.
Understanding the Healing Process
Every piercing is a small wound and your body is designed to heal it. But that healing takes time, patience, and care. Here’s a general idea of what to expect for healing time:
- Earlobe: 8-16 weeks
- Helix/Cartilage: 6-12 months
- Nostril: 6-12 months
- Septum: 8-16 weeks
- Navel: 9-12 months
- Nipple: 6-12 months
- Oral piercings (lip, tongue, etc.): 8-16 weeks
- Surface/Microdermal: Varies, typically 6-12 months
What’s normal:
- Tenderness, swelling, and a bit of redness in the first few weeks
- A yellowish crust or clear fluid (called lymph)
- Occasional itchiness as the skin regenerates
What’s not normal:
- Green or gray discharge
- Severe pain, excessive heat, or spreading redness
- Jewelry sinking into the skin or becoming embedded
If something doesn’t feel right, always reach out to a professional piercer rather than trying to treat it on your own.
Golden Rules of Piercing Aftercare
Healing is a team effort between your body and your habits. Here are the top rules I give every client:
1. Don’t touch your piercing unless you’re cleaning it.
Unwashed hands are one of the biggest causes of irritation and infection.
2. Stick to sterile saline.
Avoid hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, ointments, or harsh soaps. These products can disrupt the healing process. Use a sterile saline wound wash (the only ingredient should be sodium chloride 0.9%).
3. Leave the jewelry in. No twisting, turning, or removing.
Even though you may feel tempted, twisting your jewelry doesn’t “loosen” it. It can actually tear the healing tissue.
These guidelines are in line with the best practices recommended by the Association of Professional Piercers (APP), an organization I am a proud member of.
How to Clean Your Piercing: Step-by-Step
Here’s how I recommend cleaning your new piercing:
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
- Spray sterile saline directly onto the piercing.
- Let it sit for 30–60 seconds to loosen any dried buildup.
- Avoid bathroom towels or anything that may harbor bacteria.
Do this once or twice daily. Over-cleaning can cause irritation just like under-cleaning can.
Common Challenges During Healing
Some bumps in the road are normal. But knowing how to navigate them makes all the difference.
- Irritation Bumps: Often caused by pressure, movement, or sleeping on the piercing.
- Swelling: Initial swelling is normal. If it doesn’t subside, your jewelry may be too short and need to be downsized.
- Embedded Jewelry: Never ignore this. Book an appointment for a jewelry check ASAP.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, I’m always happy to take a look and guide you.
Things That Can Delay Healing
You’d be surprised how often little things get in the way of healing. Here are a few to avoid:
- Sleeping on a fresh piercing (especially cartilage)
- Changing jewelry too soon
- Swimming in pools, lakes, or oceans
- Contact from dirty phone screens, earbuds, or face masks
- Hair products, makeup, or skincare touching the piercing site
Being mindful of your daily routine can prevent weeks, or even months, of added healing time.
Support Your Body’s Healing
Your body wants to heal. It just needs the right support:
- Get enough sleep
- Stay hydrated
- Eat a balanced diet with protein and vitamins
- Avoid smoking and minimize alcohol
- Choose implant-grade materials like ASTM F-136 titanium or solid 14k/18k gold
I only use quality jewelry that’s safe for initial piercings and helps your body stay focused on healing, not fighting off poor materials.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
There’s a lot of outdated advice floating around, especially online. That’s why working with a knowledgeable, experienced piercer is so important.
I’ve spent over two decades perfecting my technique, learning from the best, and continuing my education. I’m here not just to pierce you, but to help you feel confident and empowered throughout the entire healing process.
Final Thoughts & Your Next Step
Healing a piercing isn’t complicated. But it does require consistency and care. By following trusted aftercare practices and listening to your body, you’re setting yourself up for a safe, smooth healing experience.
✨ Need help with a healing issue or ready to downsize your jewelry?
📟 Text me at 347-770-7653 or
🗓️ Book a check-up anytime at book.ipricku.com.
Your piercing deserves the best care. Let’s make sure it gets it!