Heal it right: piercing aftercare
The routine that keeps a piercing perfect
Proper aftercare is what makes a piercing heal correctly, avoid infection and keep looking great. The studio's guide is simple: wash your hands before touching the piercing, cleanse with saline solution two to three times daily using a clean gauze pad or cotton swab — never twist or rotate the jewelry — and pat dry with a disposable paper towel.
Healing time depends on placement: earlobes and septums run 6–8 weeks, nostrils 4–6 months, cartilage 4–12 months, and navels and nipples 6–12 months. Mild swelling, redness and some clear discharge are normal early on; excessive swelling, yellow or green discharge or severe pain means it's time to contact your piercer or a doctor. Wait until fully healed before changing jewelry, and always choose hypoallergenic pieces — titanium, gold or surgical steel.
What to avoid while healing
- No touching or twisting — Only handle jewelry when cleaning.
- No swimming — Pools, hot tubs, lakes and oceans are off-limits for at least 4–6 weeks.
- No harsh products — Skip alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, ointments and scented soaps.
- No sleeping on it — Pressure causes irritation and slows healing, especially on ears.
- No early jewelry changes — Premature removal can close the piercing.