Cleaning and taking care of your cartilage piercing is crucial to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. Here are some important points to consider:
1. Aftercare Routine
After getting a cartilage piercing, it is important to establish an aftercare routine. This typically involves cleaning the piercing twice a day. You can use saline solution or antibacterial soap recommended by a professional piercer.
2. Avoid Irritation
One of the biggest challenges in cartilage piercing aftercare is avoiding irritation. It is crucial to do everything possible to prevent irritation. This includes avoiding touching or twisting the jewelry, especially with unwashed hands. It is also important to ensure that clothing and bedding are clean to minimize the risk of infection.
3. Cleaning Frequency
For cartilage piercings, it is recommended to clean the piercing once in the morning and once at night. This can be done using a saltwater soak, which involves mixing a gallon of distilled water with non-iodized sea salt.
4. Healing Time
Cartilage piercings generally take longer to heal compared to earlobe piercings. The healing period for cartilage piercings is around 12 weeks. During this time, it is important to wear earrings 24/7 to prevent the piercing from closing.
5. Signs of Healing
To ensure that your cartilage piercing is healing correctly, look out for certain signs. These include normal coloration of the piercing site without redness, swelling, or tenderness. There should be no clear or yellowish fluid draining, and the area should not be painful when touched. Healing time may vary, but for most people, it takes at least 3 months.
6. Speeding up Healing
There are certain measures you can take to help your cartilage piercing heal faster. One effective method is using warm saline soaks in the morning and evening. This helps prevent infection, reduces scarring, and speeds up the healing process.
7. Crustiness
After getting a cartilage piercing, it is normal for crusties to form. These crusties are a result of your body’s natural healing process. They should be cleaned carefully and thoroughly whenever noticed to maintain proper hygiene.
8. Sleeping with a Cartilage Piercing
It is advisable not to remove a new cartilage piercing, even at night, as the holes can close up. This can lead to complications and delay the healing process. Additionally, avoid twisting or playing with the jewelry to minimize the risk of irritation and infection.
9. Managing Pain
If your cartilage piercing is causing discomfort, there are several strategies you can try. Applying heat or ice, taking pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin, and rinsing with saltwater or washing with antibacterial soap can help alleviate pain. Clean the piercing at least twice a day and if it doesn’t improve, consult your piercer or a doctor.
10. Infected Piercing
If you suspect your cartilage piercing is infected, it is best not to remove the earring. Removing the earring can trap the infection within the skin. Instead, seek advice from a doctor or professional piercer before taking any action.
In conclusion, cartilage piercings require dedicated aftercare to ensure proper healing. By following a regular cleaning routine, avoiding irritation, and taking necessary precautions, you can maintain a healthy cartilage piercing. Remember to consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider if you have any concerns or complications.