When it comes to taking care of your piercing, one question that often arises is whether soap is a suitable option for cleaning. Some argue about the efficacy of antimicrobial soaps, while others debate the potential harm caused by antibacterial soaps. In this article, we’ll explore the use of soap for piercing aftercare and provide some valuable advice.
The Role of Soap in Piercing Aftercare
Soap plays an essential role in the aftercare of your piercing. It serves several purposes, including:
- Killing or reducing potentially harmful microorganisms on your skin that could lead to an infection.
- Washing away surface dirt, dead skin, sweat, and other impurities.
- Cleaning the piercing and jewelry to remove any build-up or crusties.
Choosing the Right Soap for Fresh Piercings
For fresh piercings, it is crucial to use a mild, fragrance-free liquid soap that is preferably antimicrobial or germicidal. The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) recommends using specially formulated soaps for wound care during the initial healing stage.
Two commonly recommended brands in the United States are Satin and Provon. These soaps are considered antimicrobial, which means they are designed to kill more germs than standard antibacterial soaps. They contain Chloroxylenol as the active ingredient, which is effective against various germs. It’s worth noting that these soaps may not be readily available in regular stores but can be obtained from medical supply businesses or online retailers like Steel Navel or Amazon.
Beware of Using Dial or Standard Antibacterial Soaps
It is important to avoid using Dial or standard antibacterial soap on your fresh piercing. These soaps can be harsh, drying, and irritating, which can be detrimental to the delicate wound. While some piercers may still recommend Dial soap with triclosan, it’s best to adhere to industry standards and opt for antimicrobial soaps specially formulated for piercings.
Transitioning to a Regular Soap
After the initial healing stage or once you’ve used up the antimicrobial soap recommended by your piercer, you can switch to a regular soap. The trend nowadays is to opt for soaps with fewer added ingredients, fragrances, and dyes. Health food groceries can be a good place to find natural, gentle soaps that work well for your skin.
Some soap recommendations for healed piercings include:
- Dr. Bronner’s pure castile soap: This vegetable oil-based soap, such as the peppermint variant, is a popular choice among many due to its gentleness and the absence of harsh chemicals.
- Johnson’s Baby Wash: Known for its mildness, this baby wash can be suitable for second-stage or healed piercings.
- Generic “mild” or “sensitive skin” antibacterial soaps: These lavender-colored soaps, when diluted, can be effective for maintenance of healed piercings.
- Any all-natural soap that suits your skin and is free from excessive dyes and fragrances.
Soap Tips for Piercings
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when using soap for your piercings:
- Use a small amount of soap and dilute it if necessary. Apply it gently, creating a lather around your piercing without rubbing too vigorously or moving the jewelry excessively.
- Avoid using antibacterial soap on genital piercings, especially for women, as it may disrupt the pH balance and increase the risk of yeast infections.
- Healed piercings also require regular cleaning with soap as part of maintenance. A daily wash in the shower helps remove any smelly or waxy sebum that may accumulate.
- Ensure thorough rinsing of your jewelry to remove any soap residue, especially if you have hard water that is prone to leaving a film.
- After cleaning, carefully dry the area around your piercing, particularly for ear and navel piercings, using a clean paper towel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I clean my fresh piercing with Dial soap?
A: It is not recommended to use Dial soap or standard antibacterial soap on a fresh piercing as these can be harsh and irritating to the wound. Opt for antimicrobial soaps specifically formulated for piercings.
Q: What soap should I use for a healing piercing?
A: The APP suggests using a mild, fragrance-free liquid soap that is antimicrobial or germicidal during the initial healing stage. Two commonly recommended brands are Satin and Provon.
Q: Can I switch to a regular soap once my piercing is healed?
A: Yes, once your piercing has healed, you can transition to a regular soap. Look for a gentle, all-natural soap with minimal added ingredients, fragrances, and dyes that suits your skin.
Q: How much soap should I use for my piercing?
A: It is best to use a small amount of soap, creating a gentle lather around your piercing. No need for excessive rubbing or moving the jewelry roughly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right soap for your piercing is crucial for proper aftercare. By following the guidance of knowledgeable piercers and opting for mild, fragrance-free soaps, you can ensure a clean and healthy healing process. Remember to be gentle, rinse thoroughly, and dry the area carefully. With proper care, your piercing will heal beautifully. For high-quality piercing products, visit TKTX Numbing Cream Store — your trusted brand for all your piercing needs.
Keywords: TKTX Numbing Cream Store, piercing aftercare, antimicrobial soap, fresh piercings, wound care, cleaning, healed piercings.
