A new piercing needs attention and patience. This general guide can help you discuss aftercare with your piercer; specific recommendations depend on the piercing placement, the jewellery and your individual circumstances.
Start with personal aftercare instructions
Before leaving the studio, ask how to care for your particular piercing, which products are suitable and when to come back for a check-up. Ask for written instructions: they are easier to follow without guesswork.
Do not apply advice for a different procedure to your new piercing. If recommendations seem contradictory, discuss them with your piercer or a medical professional.
Minimise touching and pressure
Do not touch the jewellery unnecessarily. If touching is needed for your agreed aftercare routine, wash your hands first. Do not rotate the jewellery or try to force away discharge or crusts.
- Keep hair, clothing and accessories from catching on the jewellery.
- Avoid pressure on the piercing while you sleep.
- Check whether headphones, glasses or a hat are pressing on the piercing.
Take your time before changing jewellery
Appearance alone does not always show whether the tissue has healed. Agree on the timing of a check-up and a possible jewellery change with your piercer. If the jewellery is pressing into the area or has caught on something, do not force it back into position — ask for help.
When to seek medical help
Increasing pain, significant swelling, spreading redness, pus or a fever are reasons to see a doctor. A photograph or an article cannot reliably establish the cause of these changes. Do not try to treat a possible infection yourself or remove the jewellery without medical advice.
This is a general editorial draft, not an individual aftercare plan. A studio specialist should approve it before final publication. Seek medical advice if you have concerning symptoms.