Body jewelry is a form of artistic self-expression. However, if you have piercings in your ears, eyebrow, naval, or nose, it will undoubtedly be exposed to oil from your body, as well as potential dirt and grime. To minimize discomfort and prevent infection, below are tasks to perform and other practices to avoid.   

Do:

Ice the area.

It’s not uncommon to experience soreness, swelling, and radiating heat as a body piercing heals. This can be particularly true for nostril, upper ear, and other cartilage piercings. To reduce irritation, apply an ice pack to the area when needed. You can take off the body jewelry to reach the piercing, just remember to put it back afterward. Otherwise, the hole could start to close.   

Clean the piercing twice a day.

As it heals, the wound will excrete dead cells and blood. Clean the area twice a day to remove the residue. So you don’t introduce germs and bacteria to the site, remember to wash your hands with soap and water first. You can use mouthwash to clean tongue piercings and the inner part of lip piercings. 

Don’t:

Forget to stay hydrated.

Drink plenty of water to help your skin remain hydrated. This will also prevent drying and cracking that leaves skin tight, increasing the risk you will open up the piercing when you move. If you are prone to dry skin, speak to your piercer. They can recommend a fragrant-free moisturizer that won’t irritate the site or cause your body jewelry to tarnish quickly.

Use rubbing alcohol for cleaning.

To disinfect the ear, nose, brow, or naval piercing, you might be tempted to clean it with rubbing alcohol. Fight the urge, as it could sting if the wound is still open. The properties in alcohol also dry out the hole, causing it to crack and bleed. This slows healing and increases the risk of infection. Instead, stick to soap and water or a saline solution. 

If you are looking for new body jewelry to show off your piercing, visit 5J Music in Elko, NV. Since 1995, people throughout northeastern Nevada have visited the shop for body jewelry as well as glass pipes, hemp-derived CBD oil, music, and more merchandise. Committed to providing the best customer service, the staff will listen to your needs and provide product recommendations. To ask inventory questions, call (775) 778-0484. You can also shop their selection online and become a Facebook follower for sale alerts.