Aftercare

The do’s and don’ts, and what to expect.

What to Expect

Initially, it is normal for your piercing to have light bleeding, tenderness, discharge, swelling, and bruising. All of these symptoms will subside as healing continues.

As you continue healing, some discoloration and itching are normal. Secretion of a whitish-yellow fluid (not pus) will dry on your piercing creating a crusty material. Once the initial swelling has subsided, check back in with your piercer to have the backing of your jewelry downsized.

Your piercing may seem healed before the healing process is complete. This is because tissue heals from the outside in, and although it feels fine, the interior remains fragile. Be patient and keep cleaning throughout the entire healing process.

Do

  • Spray your piercing with sterile saline spray 2-3 times a day. Specifically after physical activities.

  • Dry your piercing after any cleaning or shower. You can do this with a clean paper towel or a blow dryer on the ‘cool - low’ setting.

  • Leave your piercing alone, let it heal in peace!

  • Check-in for your downsize within the appropriate time frame given by your piercer.

Don’t

  • Twist, play, touch, take out, or sleep on your piercing while it heals.

  • Use tea tree oil, ointments, alcohol, or peroxide on any piercing. Fresh or healed.

  • Pick off any scabs or crusty materials. In the shower, let the water run over your piercing to help it loosen up and wash off.

  • Submerge your piercing in any body of water during healing.

Maintaining proper oral hygiene daily is key to healing. We suggest getting a new toothbrush and avoiding oral products that contain alcohol or whitening agents.

Within the first week, you’ll notice your lip or tongue swell a noticeable amount and there may be bruising. This is perfectly normal, the swelling and bruising will start to settle after two weeks.

Downsizing your oral piercing is important in order to avoid biting on the jewelry and risking permanent damage to your teeth. The typical time frame for downsizing an oral piercing is 2-4 weeks. If you are unsure if you’re ready for a downsize, visit your piercer for a check-up.

Oral Piercings

Genital Piercings

Don’t overthink this one! Keep it simple with good personal hygiene and listen to your body. We suggest refraining from sharing bodily fluids with others while your piercings are healing. If you’re engaging in sexual activities and feel discomfort, listen to your body and let your piercing heal a little longer before trying again.

It’s normal in the first week for your piercings to bleed and to have soreness. Be sure to check in after a month to ensure your piercings are healing appropriately.