Aftercare Myths Debunked

Piercing Aftercare Myths: What You Really Need to Know

Whether you're new to piercings or a seasoned pro, it's easy to get caught up in the sea of misinformation when it comes to aftercare. In this post, we're tackling three of the biggest myths and setting the record straight so you can keep your piercing healthy during the healing process.

Myth 1: You Must Twist or Rotate Your Jewelry While Healing

This myth stems from an outdated belief that if you don't twist or rotate your jewelry, your skin will somehow "stick" to it. But modern jewelry is non-porous, meaning your skin can't adhere to it. By twisting or turning your jewelry, you're actually causing irritation and potentially damaging the healing piercing. Moving the jewelry also forces any dried discharge (often referred to as "crusties") in and out of the piercing channel, much like picking at a scab. This can lead to tearing or extending your healing time.

The truth: Your piercing should be left alone as much as possible. Only move the jewelry slightly to clean off any discharge that builds up, and do so under running water in the shower for the best results. This minimizes friction and keeps your piercing safe from damage.

Myth 2: Rubbing Alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide is Great for Cleaning Your Piercing

Both rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide are known for their disinfecting properties, but they are way too harsh for daily use on a piercing. In fact, the labels on these products even state that they should not be used on puncture wounds—and your piercing is exactly that, a puncture wound.

The truth: These products can dry out and irritate your skin, slowing down the healing process. The best option for cleaning your piercing is sterile saline solution. It’s gentle enough for everyday use, helps irrigate the piercing, and removes discharge without causing damage.

Myth 3: Over-Cleaning is Better

Good hygiene is essential, but there's such a thing as too much cleaning when it comes to your piercing. Over-cleaning can strip away your skin’s natural oils, leading to extreme dryness. When the area is dry, any movement of the jewelry causes friction, which could tear the healing tissue—much like how your nose becomes tender and raw if you blow it too often.

The truth: It’s only necessary to clean your piercing twice a day, or three times if you’re experiencing heavy discharge. Over-cleaning can do more harm than good. A thorough clean in a warm shower is often enough, as the water can help gently remove discharge without the need for additional products. Stick with sterile saline for best results.

By clearing up these common myths, you'll be better equipped to take care of your piercing and ensure a smooth healing process. Remember, a little knowledge goes a long way in keeping your piercings healthy and happy!