Piercing Aftercare Guide: How to Clean and Care for New Piercings
So, you’ve just got a shiny new piercing — yay! But the journey doesn’t end there. To keep it looking its best, proper aftercare is everything. From cleaning techniques and healing timelines to common issues and must-know FAQs, this complete guide will walk you through caring for your piercing from day one.
Piercing Aftercare Tips
Your new piercing is basically a mini wound, so treat it with love. Clean twice a day with sterile saline solution (you can buy this at most pharmacies or make your own with 1/4 tsp of non-iodised sea salt in 250ml of warm distilled water). Gently soak or spray — no need to scrub.
As tempting as it is to twist or touch, try not to! Dirty fingers = bacteria = irritation (or worse). Only touch your piercing when cleaning, and always wash your hands first.
No alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or fragranced soaps — these can dry out the skin and delay healing. Saline is your new BFF.
Avoid sleeping on your piercing (especially fresh helix or cartilage ones). A travel pillow can help you snooze without squishing your new bling.
Chlorinated water, hot tubs, and even lakes can introduce bacteria. Hold off on swimming until your piercing is fully healed — usually 6–12 weeks for lobes and several months for cartilage.
Healing times vary. Don’t rush to change your jewellery — even if it looks fine. Stick with your original piece until a professional gives you the green light.
A bit of redness, swelling, or clear fluid? Totally normal. But if you notice intense pain, green/yellow pus, or a bump that won’t quit, check in with a professional piercer or healthcare provider.
Piercing Healing Times
Healing times can vary significantly from person to person depending on the location of the piercing and individual healing factors. Always consult a professional piercer before changing your jewellery or making adjustments to your aftercare routine. Their personalised guidance is key to a safe and smooth healing process.
When to See a Professional
Final Thoughts
Choosing high-quality, hypoallergenic jewellery can make a big difference to your healing journey. Comfort, safety, and style all go hand-in-hand — so invest in pieces that support your skin and suit your look. And remember: when in doubt, your piercer is your best resource for personalised aftercare advice.
FAQs
How should I clean my piercing?
Use a sterile saline solution twice daily. Spray or soak the area gently, then pat dry with clean gauze or tissue. Avoid over-cleaning or using alcohol-based products.
Can I change my jewellery early?
It’s best to wait until the piercing is fully healed. Changing it too soon can cause irritation, infection, or even close up the piercing.
Is crusting normal?
Yes! It’s part of the healing process. Gently clean away dried lymph with saline and a clean gauze or tissue.
What should I do if I get a bump?
Not all bumps mean infection! It could be irritation, pressure, or trauma. Switch to a flatback if you’re using a butterfly back, avoid sleeping on it, and consider a chamomile compress. Some professional piercers may also recommend saline soaks or pressure discs to help the area settle. When in doubt, always check with a professional.
Can I use tea tree oil or other home remedies?
We don’t recommend it. Natural doesn’t always mean safe — tea tree oil can be too harsh. Stick to saline unless advised otherwise by a professional.
Can I go swimming with a fresh piercing?
It’s best to avoid pools, hot tubs, and lakes until your piercing is fully healed — typically 8–12 weeks for lobes and several months for cartilage — to prevent infection from bacteria in the water.
How do I know if my piercing is infected or just irritated?
Mild redness and swelling are normal. If you notice pus, a foul odour, or throbbing pain, it could be infected — check in with a professional.
