Whether it's your first piercing or you're a seasoned pro, proper aftercare is key to ensuring your piercing heals beautifully and stays healthy. At Viper Pit Tattoo & Piercing Studio, we’re passionate about helping you get the most out of your new body art. Here are five essential steps to care for your fresh piercings:
1. Cleanse Gently, But Consistently
Keeping your new piercing clean is the number one priority to prevent infection. Use a sterile saline solution or a non-alcoholic, fragrance-free piercing cleaner. Avoid using harsh products like hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol, as these can irritate the skin and slow the healing process.
Tip: Clean your piercing twice a day—once in the morning and once at night—with clean hands. Gently dab the area with a cotton swab or pad, making sure to remove any crusting or debris around the jewellery.
2. Hands Off!
As tempting as it may be to touch or twist your new jewelry, it’s important to resist! Touching your piercing with dirty hands can introduce bacteria and cause infection. The jewelry will naturally move during the day, so there’s no need to fiddle with it.
Tip: If you absolutely need to touch it (like during cleaning), make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water beforehand.
3. Avoid Swimming
While your piercing is healing, it’s best to avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, or the ocean. These bodies of water can contain bacteria and chemicals that increase the risk of infection. If you can't avoid swimming, consider covering the piercing with a waterproof bandage to help protect it.
Tip: If your piercing does get wet, clean it right after with saline solution to minimize the risk of irritation or infection.
4. Choose Your Jewellery Wisely
During the healing process, stick to the jewelry provided by your piercer. High-quality metals like titanium, gold, or surgical stainless steel are best for new piercings as they are hypoallergenic and less likely to cause irritation.
Tip: If you feel any discomfort or have a reaction to your jewelry, consult your piercer. They can help you switch to a different metal or size if necessary.
5. Watch for Signs of Healing
Healing times vary depending on the piercing location, but it's essential to pay attention to your body. Minor swelling, redness, or slight tenderness is normal in the first few days, but if you notice any extreme redness, prolonged swelling, or discharge, contact your piercer right away. Early detection of problems ensures quick action and prevents complications.
Tip: Keep in mind that cartilage piercings (such as the helix, rook, or nose) can take longer to heal—sometimes up to 6-12 months. Be patient and stay consistent with your aftercare.
Final Thoughts
Piercing aftercare doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a little dedication. By following these five steps, you’ll promote healthy healing and avoid potential complications. At Viper Pit Tattoo & Piercing Studio, we’re always here to offer guidance and support. If you ever have concerns about your piercing, don’t hesitate to stop by or give us a call.
Happy healing!
Viper Pit Tattoo & Piercing StudioManchester's home for custom tattoos and precision piercings.
Got questions? Drop them in the comments, or book your next piercing session with us today!
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