Getting a nose piercing is an exciting experience. Taking care of your piercing properly is crucial for a successful healing process. In this article, we will discuss when it is necessary to downsize your nose piercing to ensure its long-term health. We will also provide general aftercare guidelines that will help you maintain a happy and healthy piercing.
The Aftercare Golden Rules
To keep your piercing clean and healthy, follow these important rules:
- Keep your piercing clean by following the cleaning instructions provided.
- Avoid getting your piercing wet for at least 4 weeks.
- Minimize touching, twisting, or turning the jewelry to prevent bacteria from entering the piercing.
General Piercing Aftercare
Follow these steps to clean your piercing twice daily with sterile saline:
- Wash your hands with antibacterial soap and water.
- Spray a small amount of sterile saline onto both the front and back of your piercing to soak and soften any crusties.
- Use a piece of non-woven gauze or clean, folded kitchen roll to gently remove any debris.
- Once the piercing is clean, gently dab away any remaining moisture.
Remember to avoid using any additional products, homemade remedies, or chemicals. It is essential not to twist, turn, or fiddle with your jewelry as it can introduce bacteria and prolong the healing process. Additionally, avoid soaking or submerging your piercing in water for the first 4 weeks.
If you have any concerns or questions about your piercing, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help.
Nasal Piercings
For nasal piercings, follow the general piercing aftercare instructions to clean the outside of your piercing. Cleaning the jewelry on the inside of your nose is not necessary unless there is visible buildup. The inside of the nose is self-cleaning, and excessive cleaning may irritate the sensitive skin. However, for septum piercings, clean the inside only when there is visible buildup.
To clean the inside of your nasal piercing:
- Wash your hands with antibacterial soap and water.
- Spray a small amount of sterile saline solution onto a piece of non-woven gauze or clean paper towel.
- Fold the gauze or paper towel into a corner and gently wipe away any buildup.
Oral Piercings
Follow these guidelines to clean your oral piercing properly:
- Clean the outside of the piercing twice daily following the general piercing aftercare instructions.
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash morning and night, as well as after each main meal, for a maximum of 5 times a day.
- Rinse your mouth with clean water after eating, drinking, smoking, or having sexual or oral contact.
Avoid spicy foods and sucking on straws for a few weeks, as these actions can exacerbate swelling. Drinking plenty of cold water can help reduce swelling, but avoid applying or sucking on ice as it can damage tissues.
Surface Piercings
For surface piercings, follow the general piercing aftercare guidelines, with extra care during the first 14 days. It is recommended to wear a disposable adhesive plaster over your piercing for 12 hours on and 12 hours off during the first 5-7 days. This will help the piercing sit flush and avoid snags. Once the piercing has settled, you can use a dental floss pick to remove any large buildups between the jewelry and skin.
Intimate Piercings
Each intimate piercing has slightly different aftercare requirements. During your consultation, we will provide you with specific instructions tailored to your piercing. Generally, follow the general piercing aftercare guidelines. Use a sanitary towel or liner for the first week and change it at least twice daily for hygiene purposes. Avoid sexual contact and masturbation if possible for at least 2-4 weeks. When engaging in sexual activity, use a condom and avoid contact with the body fluids of others for the first 4 weeks. Listen to your body and communicate with your partner if you experience any discomfort or soreness.
Downsizing
Downsizing your piercing is crucial for its long-term comfort and health. Downsizing involves switching the post or ring to a shorter one after the swelling has subsided. This ensures a snug fit and minimizes the risk of snagging and pressure issues. The average time window for downsizing is 2-6 weeks after the initial piercing. Your piercer will guide you on the ideal timing for your specific piercing. Remember to book an appointment for a downsize to avoid forgetting.
A checkup 2-4 weeks after piercing is recommended, even for piercings that don’t require downsizing. This allows us to ensure your piercing is healing properly and address any issues early on.
Jewellery and Piercing Maintenance
To maintain your jewelry and piercing:
- Tighten threaded ends or squeeze together threadless ends and posts once a week to prevent loosening or loss of jewelry.
- Clean your jewelry regularly, even for healed piercings, by removing the tops and gently scrubbing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap.
- Use a fragrance-free facial soap every other day to clean in and around your piercings. Gently massage the soap into the skin and rinse well with warm water.
- For oral piercings, use a toothbrush and toothpaste to brush the jewelry directly and remove any debris daily.
- Solid gold body jewelry may tarnish over time. Use a pre-impregnated polishing cloth to gently buff the jewelry and restore its shine.
By following these maintenance routines, you can ensure the longevity of your piercing and keep it looking great.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I downsize my nose piercing?
A: The average time to downsize a nose piercing is 2-6 weeks after being pierced. Your piercer will advise you on the ideal timing for your specific piercing.
Q: How often should I clean my piercing?
A: Clean your piercing twice daily with sterile saline solution. Follow the general piercing aftercare guidelines provided.
Q: Can I swim with a new nose piercing?
A: It is important to keep your piercing dry for at least 4 weeks. Avoid swimming, soaking, or submerging your piercing in water during this time.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my nasal piercing?
A: Use sterile saline solution and a non-woven gauze or clean paper towel to gently wipe away any visible buildup. Remember to avoid excessive cleaning, as the inside of the nose is self-cleaning.
Conclusion
Taking care of a nose piercing is a team effort between the piercer and the client. By following the aftercare instructions and downsizing when necessary, you can ensure a happy and healthy piercing that will last a lifetime. Remember to schedule regular checkups to monitor your piercing’s progress and maintain good hygiene and jewelry maintenance practices. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to support you on your piercing journey.
