To care for a fresh piercing, it is recommended to wash with soap and water or saline solution, rather than rubbing alcohol. Alcohol can dry out the piercing, causing it to crack and bleed, which can keep the wound open. Using oil-based soaps is preferred to avoid this issue.
How to Get the Crust off Cartilage Piercing
One way to remove crust around the piercing is by using saline solution. Submerge the piercing in saline for about 5 minutes, then use a clean cloth, gauze, or cotton swab dipped in saline to gently remove any loosened crust. Rinse the piercing with clean water and dry it off.
The Benefits of Salt Water for Piercing Infections
Using a saline solution or sea salt solution can help keep the piercing site free from infection as it heals. Saline solution is a simple pH-balanced mixture of water and salt, containing 0.9% salt. It is commonly used in medicine and wound cleaning, making it a suitable option for piercing care.
Effective Methods to Clean Your Piercing
To clean your piercing, you have several methods to choose from:
- Warm Sea Salt Soaks
- Morton Fine Grind Mediterranean Sea Salt
- Sterile Saline Sprays
- Mild Liquid Soap
- Avoid Rubbing Alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide
- Avoid Antibiotic Ointments
- Avoid Bactine® and Ear Piercing Solutions with BZK (Benzalkonium chloride)
The Use of Saline Solution for Piercing Cleaning
Saline solutions are best for cleaning piercings. It is a ph-balanced solution made of water and salt, typically containing 0.9% salt. Saline solution is commonly used in medicine and wound care. Therefore, it is recommended to clean your piercing with a saline solution instead of a contact solution.
Importance of Not Picking at Crust on Piercings
After the first few days, your body will secrete lymph as it forms a fistula inside the piercing. This lymph may collect as crust on the jewelry or around the piercing. It is important not to pick at it, as piercings may swell slightly during the healing process.
Speeding Up the Healing of Cartilage Piercings
Using warm sea salt water (saline) soaks in the morning and evening can help prevent infection, reduce the risk of scarring, and speed up the healing of your cartilage piercing. Soaking the piercing with a mild solution will not only feel good but also aid in the healing process.
How Long Soreness Lasts in Cartilage Piercings
It is normal for your ear to be sore immediately after getting a cartilage piercing. The pain can last for two weeks to a month. It is important to avoid sleeping on the pierced side, as it can cause complications and discomfort during the healing process.
Healing an Infected Piercing
Minor pierced ear infections can be treated at home with proper care. Most infections will clear up within 1 to 2 weeks. It is important to maintain good hygiene and follow proper cleaning methods to aid in the healing process.
Alternative to Sea Salt for Piercing Cleaning
If sea salt is not available, it is best to use table non-iodized salt instead of other types of salt. Sea, rock, or coarse salts may not dissolve well and can contain impurities that interfere with wound healing.
Proper Cleaning and Drying for Piercing Care
After getting a piercing, it is important to keep the area clean and dry. Gently clean the area with a warm saline or salt water solution as advised. However, it is crucial not to over-clean the piercing, as it can irritate the skin and delay the healing process.
Showering with a New Cartilage Piercing
When showering with a new cartilage piercing, it is important to avoid getting excessive water on the piercing. Use a waterproof bandage or cover the piercing with a clean, dry cloth to protect it during the shower.
Duration of Saline Use for Piercing Care
For saline soaks, fill a small cup with the saline solution and ensure it is big enough to fully submerge the jewelry. Let the piercing soak for 2-3 minutes. Saline solution should be used as long as necessary to keep the piercing clean, but over-cleaning should be avoided as it can irritate the skin and hinder the healing process.