Aftercare Instructions
Proper aftercare of a new piercing is VERY important. Infection and other serious complications can be avoided by following a few simple instructions. All piercings are susceptible to infection; therefore proper cleansing techniques are necessary to aid in fighting off infection and to promote healing.
The number one cause of infection is touching the piercing or jewlery with unwashed hands. Jewlery should NOT be played with or constantly adjusted. The piercing should be left alone until you're ready to clean the area and the jewlery.
Cleaning should be performed twice a day. Over-cleaning should be avoided because it can irritate the piercing and/or cause the skin to dry out and crack.
Anti-bacterial soaps recommended are: Provon Medicated Lotion, Dial Liquid Soap, Almay Hypo-Care, Lever 2000, or Dr. Bronner's Peppermint soap. Whatever brand you choose to use should be free of moisturizers and deodorants.
GENERAL CLEANING PROCEDURE
Remove any dried discharge from the jewlery using a cotton swab and warm water before rotating the jewlery. Using force to break the jewlery free will cause damage to the newly formed skin cells.
Apply soap to fingertips and work into a lather while rotating the jewlery back and forth four or five times. Rinse the piercing and jewlery thoroughly under running water while rotating the jewlery until all soap is removed. The shower is the best place for this to be done.
Warm salt-water soaks are also highly recommended to help remove dry discharge and puss from within the piercing. This is a great help in stopping infection. Use 1/4tsp. of sea salt per 8oz. of water. Soak for 10 to 15mins. twice a day by inverting a small cup over the piercing.
TONGUES: Everytime you eat or drink (water is the only exception!), or smoke you must rinse your mouth with a mixture of 1/2 Listerine and 1/2 water. This should be held in your mouth for a minimum of 30sec. to a minute to cleanse the piercing. Ice cubes and Popscicles should be used to reduce swelling. Rinse with warm salt water twice a day.
DO NOT use ointments such as Neosporin, Bactroban, A&D, or any other first aid solution. Bactine MAY be used as part of your cleansing ritual. It contains a mild antiseptic, which helps to numb the area. Bactine WILL NOT hurt the piercing.
NEVER use Hydrogen Peroxide, because it destroys newly formed skin cells, or Isopropyl Alcohol, because it is very drying.
Swimming pools, spas and hot tubs, should be avoided until your piercing is fully healed. Taking a bath will not harm the healing process.
DO NOT allow the piercing to come in contact with another's bodily fluids including saliva and semen. Your own urine is sterile to your body. Appropriate protection (condoms, dental dams) is recommended while still in the healing process.
DO NOT remove the jewlery if infection or swelling are present. Severe complications may occur by blocking necessary drainage. ALL INFECTIONS SHOULD BE TREATED AS SERIOUS INFECTIONS!! Consult your physician immediately if infection persists.
BE SAFE!! BE SMART!! BE BEAUTIFUL!!
-Wiz
