Ear piercings are a timeless form of self-expression, adding a touch of personality and style. But for the newly pierced, navigating aftercare can be tricky. Sharing space with water, a necessity of life throws a curveball into the healing process. This article dives into the world of ear piercing, exploring the best practices for aftercare and how water treatment comes into play.
The Art of Ear Piercing:
Ear piercings come in a wide variety, with lobes, cartilage, and even the upper ear being popular locations. Regardless of the placement, the piercing process should always be performed by a professional piercer using sterile equipment. They will guide you through jewelry selection and aftercare instructions specific to your piercing.
Aftercare Essentials:
Following a proper aftercare routine is crucial for a smooth healing journey. Here are some key steps:
- Cleanliness is Key: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your piercing. This applies to cleaning the piercing itself and adjusting the jewelry.
- Saline Solution: Your piercer will recommend a saline solution for cleaning. Make a homemade solution by mixing ¼ teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with 8 ounces of distilled water. Use a sterile gauze pad or cotton swab soaked in the solution to gently clean around the piercing twice daily. Avoid harsh soaps, rubbing alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide, which can irritate the healing tissue.
- Don’t Touch, Don’t Play: Resist the urge to fiddle with your piercing. Excessive touching can introduce bacteria and delay healing.
- Sleeping Beauty: Avoid sleeping on the newly pierced ear for the first few weeks. This prevents irritation and pressure on the healing area.
- Listen to Your Body: Some redness, swelling, and tenderness are normal during healing. However, if you experience excessive pain, pus discharge, or prolonged redness, consult your piercer or a healthcare professional.
Water Woes:
Water and newly pierced ears can be a recipe for infection. Here’s what you should know:
- Steering Clear of Pools, Hot Tubs, and Natural Waters: Chlorine, bacteria, and other organisms in these bodies of water can irritate and potentially infect your piercing. Avoid them for at least 6-8 weeks, or as advised by your piercer.
- Showers are Okay (with Caution): Showering is generally safe, but avoid directing the water stream directly onto your piercing. Keep showers brief and lukewarm, not hot. Pat the piercing dry with a clean, lint-free cloth afterward.
- Swimming Pools at Home: Even treated pool water at home can irritate your piercing. If you must swim, wear a waterproof bandage while submerged and clean the piercing thoroughly afterward.
Water Treatment and Ear Piercings:
While you can’t control the treatment of public pools and natural waters, you have some control over the water quality at home. Here’s how water treatment services can impact your piercing care:
- Chlorine: Public pools use chlorine to disinfect water. While essential for public health, chlorine can be drying and irritating to a healing piercing. If you have concerns about your home water’s chlorine levels, consider installing a chlorine filter for your shower.
- Minerals: Hard water, high in minerals like calcium and magnesium, can leave residue on your piercing and potentially slow healing. If you suspect hard water, a water softener can be installed to improve water quality.
Beyond the Basics:
- Jewelry Matters: During healing, it’s crucial to wear the jewelry your piercer provided. This ensures proper fit and avoids irritation. Don’t switch jewelry until the piercing is fully healed, typically 6-8 weeks for lobes and longer for cartilage piercings.
- Listen to Your Piercer: They are the experts! Follow their aftercare instructions diligently and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns.
Ear piercings, with proper care and a little vigilance with water, can become a beautiful and permanent addition to your look. By following the tips above, you can ensure a smooth healing process and enjoy your new piercing for years to come.
