Everyone hesitates when it comes to doing a navel piercing, especially since there is always the possibility that it will become infected. Do not fear! By following these short steps that describe how to keep your piercing clean, you will be able to prevent an infection from developing.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Getting the Piercing
Step 1. Ask for permission
If you are a minor, you must have the consent of a parent or guardian before getting a piercing. You must get approval so you will not waste time treating a piercing that you will have to remove anyway.
Step 2. Do your research
Find a reputable piercing studio. Read reviews from previous customers online for information, and make sure the piercer has completed his internship with another artist of proven skill.
Step 3. Check the study
It is essential that it is a clean and sterile place. If you have the impression that it is not "immaculate", then don't get the piercing done.
Step 4. Make sure the instruments are sterile
When you go to your appointment, check that the piercer opens a pack of sterile new needles in front of your eyes. This is very important to prevent the spread of diseases and infections.
Step 5. Know that it will hurt a little
The piercing itself causes slight pain. The swelling and the healing phase are the worst part.
Step 6. Don't be surprised
The artist will take a sort of clamp that he will apply to the navel to keep it still. In addition, this will protect you from being jerked during the drilling phase.
Step 7. Know what will happen next
Most of the symptoms will manifest in the first 3-5 days. The area will be swollen, it will bleed slightly, there will be a small hematoma and you will feel it soft to the touch, especially in the early days.
Step 8. Be aware that there will be liquid leaks
Even if you follow the instructions given by the piercer to the letter, you may notice white liquid leaking from where the piercing is. This is completely normal and is not a sign of infection unless you notice pus.
Part 2 of 4: Thorough Cleaning
Step 1. Wash your hands
Always wash them with an antibacterial soap before touching the navel or the jewel. Handle the piercing only during the cleaning phases.
Step 2. Rinse the area
Wash the piercing with antibacterial soap 1-2 times a day. Remove any encrustations with a cotton swab. Gently clean the area with an antibacterial flavor and water. Avoid tugging on the jewel, it would be painful and slow down the healing.
Step 3. Make sure the soap suds get into the holes
The most effective and gentle way to make this happen is to put the foam over the piercing and move it gently. It may be a little painful if the piercing is new, but the discomfort will disappear in a few days.
Solid soaps are the best for washing the navel, they are easier to apply and rinse better than liquid ones
Step 4. Rotate the jewel
While it is still wet, while cleaning, rotate it gently into the hole. This prevents the formation of scabs and scar adhesions.
Step 5. Dry the area carefully
Use a paper towel or handkerchief instead of a cloth or towel. Those of fabric could contain germs and bacteria, better to rely on a disposable product.
Step 6. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or denatured alcohol
These solutions slow down healing and kill the new cells that are forming.
Part 3 of 4: Things to Avoid
Step 1. Avoid ointments
These prevent oxygen, essential for healing, from reaching the piercing.
Step 2. Don't swim
Whether it's a chlorinated pool, a bromine whirlpool or a natural water course, avoid wetting the piercing with nothing but soap and water.
Step 3. Don't touch the piercing
The only time you should touch the navel ring is during cleaning. Remember to always wash your hands first.
Step 4. Check for the onset of infection
If you see a clear or whitish liquid, then the piercing is healing. If you notice a discharge, yellow, greenish, or foul-smelling, then there may be an infection. In this case, contact a doctor for the right therapy.
Part 4 of 4: Wear the Right Jewels
Step 1. Check the sphere regularly
Sometimes, with the passage of time, the ball that closes the jewel at the navel tends to unscrew or loosen. It is important that you check it often to make sure it is tightly closed. Grab the sphere with one hand, and squeeze it with the other.
Note: to close the sphere you have to rotate it to the right, to loosen it to the left
Step 2. Don't remove the jewel
It must remain inserted during the healing process. Although most heal within 6 weeks, for some people the piercing takes a few months to heal completely. The hole could close in minutes if you remove the jewelry too soon. Ask your piercer (or read the instructions he should have given you) for exact healing times.
If you want to change your look and the piercing doesn't hurt to the touch, then you could unscrew the ball and change it without removing the bar that is in the skin. Replacing the jewel in its entirety could irritate the wound and introduce bacteria
Step 3. Choose the style of jewelry that suits you
When the initial healing process is over, then you can choose the jewel you like best. Be aware of any allergies and sensitivities to metal or other materials.
Advice
- The solution is a good cleaner.
- Don't touch the piercing!
- For dark-skinned people, the black / brown / red mark in the upper area will go away after about four months.
- Clean your piercing regularly even after it has healed. You can stop your cleansing routine after about three months and switch to a maintenance program that involves washing twice a week.
- Tea tree oil is a powerful antibacterial and also smells good. You can also buy it in the form of soap.
- Take vitamins like C - via orange juice and milk - to speed up healing. Avoid assuming a hunched posture when you sit down and do not lie on your stomach for some time. Avoid abdominal exercises too!
