Introduction
When it comes to body piercing, aftercare is critical for proper healing. Unfortunately, the internet is full of outdated and incorrect advice. In this we’ll address the most common aftercare myths and reveal what you should never do when healing your piercing. Misinformation can lead to prolonged healing, infections, or other complications, so it's important to get it right.
Common Aftercare Myths You Should Ignore
1. Using Alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide to Clean Your Piercing
One of the most persistent myths is the use of alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh chemicals to clean your piercing. These can damage your skin and delay healing.
Why It’s Wrong:
Alcohol and peroxide are too harsh for the delicate skin around a fresh piercing. They can cause irritation and slow down the healing process by killing both harmful and helpful cells in the area.
What to Do Instead:
Use a saline solution such as Neilmed to clean the piercing. Gentle cleaning ensures that the piercing stays clean without irritation.
2. Turning or Twisting Your Jewelry
It’s a common and very out dated misconception that you should to twist or rotate your jewellery to prevent it from sticking. This practice causes significant damage to the healing tissue.
Why It’s Wrong:
Twisting or turning the jewellery tears the healing tissue, introduce bacteria into the wound, and cause unnecessary trauma.
What to Do Instead:
Leave your jewellery alone! Your body will naturally heal, and any interference can prolong the process.
3. Using Antibiotic Creams
Many people believe applying antibiotic creams will keep their piercing safe from infection. However, these creams can do more harm than good.
Why It’s Wrong:
Creams create a barrier that traps moisture, dirt, and bacteria, potentially leading to infection or delayed healing. These products aren’t meant for body piercings, which need to breathe to heal properly.
What to Do Instead:
Stick to saline soaks. The goal is to keep the area clean and allow air circulation. Avoid thick, occlusive creams that clog the piercing site.
Avoiding Dangerous Aftercare Practices
1. Overcleaning Your Piercing
While keeping your piercing clean is essential, overcleaning can be just as harmful as not cleaning it.
Why It’s Wrong:
Too much cleaning strips the skin of natural oils and disrupts the healing process. It can dry out the tissue and lead to irritation.
What to Do Instead:
Clean your piercing twice a day using a saline solution. More is not better—stick to the routine advised by your piercer.
2. Using DIY Cleaning Solutions
Mixing your own cleaning solutions, like saltwater concoctions or herbal teas, is a dangerous game. You risk using improper concentrations or contaminants that could irritate your skin.
Why It’s Wrong:
Homemade solutions lack sterility and consistency, which can introduce bacteria or disrupt your body’s natural healing.
What to Do Instead:
Always opt for pre-made sterile saline solutions specifically designed for piercings like Neilmed. These are easily accessible at pharmacies and are safe for piercings.
3. Listening to Outdated Advice
As mentioned above outdated advice and many other old wives' tales, such as applying toothpaste, tea tree oil, or even aspirin to your piercing, have made the rounds online. These home remedies are not backed by professional piercers or medical professionals.
Why It’s Wrong:
Home remedies often exacerbate irritation or even cause chemical burns on sensitive skin. Professional advice has evolved significantly, and outdated methods can cause more harm than good.
What to Do Instead:
Trust experienced piercers and reputable sources such as the APP & UKAPP for your aftercare advice. Stick to simple, proven methods like saline soaks and leave the more complex treatments to medical professionals.
Conclusion: Healing Piercings Requires Patience and Proper Care
Aftercare myths can be dangerous to your piercing’s health. It’s crucial to follow updated, professional advice to ensure smooth healing. Avoid overcleaning, twisting, and harsh chemicals—your piercing will thank you with a quicker recovery and fewer complications. If you’re ever unsure, consult with your piercer.
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