Piercing Infection Signs & Treatment
Getting a new piercing is an exciting experience, but it’s important to take proper care of it to prevent infections. Recognizing the early signs of infection can help you take action before it becomes serious. In this guide, we’ll discuss common symptoms, causes, and the best ways to treat an infected piercing.
Common Signs of a Piercing Infection
It’s normal for a fresh piercing to be slightly red and tender. However, if you experience the following symptoms, it may be a sign of an infection:
- Redness and Swelling: If the area around your piercing is swollen and hot to the touch, it could indicate an infection.
- Pain and Tenderness: Persistent pain that worsens over time is a warning sign.
- Unusual Discharge: Yellow or green pus is a common sign of bacterial infection.
- Fever or Chills: A fever could indicate that the infection is spreading.
- Prolonged Healing Time: If your piercing is not improving after a few weeks, it may be infected.
What Causes Piercing Infections?
Even with the best intentions, certain habits and environmental factors can still increase the risk of infection. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of what to watch out for:
1. Improper Aftercare
Following aftercare guidelines is crucial for healing. In fact, failing to clean your piercing properly can lead to bacteria buildup, which increases the risk of infection. To prevent this, it is essential to keep piercings clean using a saline solution, while avoiding harsh chemicals like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can irritate the skin and hinder healing.
2. Touching with Dirty Hands
Moreover, your hands naturally carry bacteria that can easily transfer to a fresh piercing. For this reason, always wash your hands thoroughly before touching or adjusting your jewelry. This simple step significantly reduces the risk of introducing harmful bacteria.
3. Using Non-Sterile or Low-Quality Jewelry
Another key factor is the jewelry itself. Cheap, low-quality metals can cause irritation, allergic reactions, or even infections. Therefore, it’s always best to choose high-quality materials, such as implant-grade titanium, surgical steel, or solid gold jewelry, to minimize these risks and promote healing.
4. Swimming in Unclean Water
Lastly, swimming in unclean water can be hazardous to a fresh piercing. Pools, lakes, and hot tubs often harbor bacteria that can enter an open wound. As a result, if you’ve recently gotten a piercing, it’s recommended to avoid swimming for at least a few weeks. If swimming is absolutely necessary, consider covering the area with a waterproof bandage to protect it.
How to Treat an Infected Piercing
If you suspect your piercing is infected, follow these steps:
1. Clean the Piercing Properly
- Wash your hands before touching the piercing.
- Use a saline solution or a fragrance-free antibacterial soap to clean the area.
- Avoid alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can delay healing (UCLAHealth).
2. Apply a Warm Compress
Using a warm saltwater compress can help reduce swelling, promote blood circulation, and encourage the infection to drain naturally. To do this, dissolve non-iodized sea salt in warm water, soak a clean, lint-free cloth in the solution, and gently press it against the piercing for 5–10 minutes. Repeat this process twice a day for best results.
3. Do Not Remove the Jewelry
Unless instructed by a professional piercer or healthcare provider, avoid removing the jewelry. Taking it out prematurely can cause the wound to close around trapped bacteria, potentially worsening the infection or leading to an abscess. Instead, keep the jewelry in place and focus on proper cleaning and aftercare.
4. Manage Discomfort with Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
If your piercing feels sore or inflamed, non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Always follow the recommended dosage and avoid aspirin, as it may increase bleeding in some cases.
5. Know When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if:
- The infection worsens despite at-home treatment.
- Red streaks appear around the piercing.
- You develop a fever.
How to Prevent Future Infections
Taking the right precautions can help you avoid infections in the future:
Follow Your Piercer’s Aftercare Instructions – Every piercing has unique healing needs. Trust the aftercare routine recommended by your professional piercer and stick to it consistently.
Use High-Quality, Hypoallergenic Jewelry – Low-quality or non-sterile metals can cause irritation, allergic reactions, and infections. Opt for implant-grade titanium, surgical steel, or solid gold jewelry to promote safe healing.
Avoid Excessive Touching or Rotating – Your piercing is an open wound, and unnecessary movement can introduce bacteria or cause irritation. Only touch it with clean hands when necessary for cleaning.
Keep Hair, Makeup, and Skincare Products Away – Lotions, sprays, and cosmetics can introduce bacteria and clog the piercing, leading to irritation. Be mindful of product application, and keep the area clean and dry.
Conclusion
Recognizing the early signs of a piercing infection and taking prompt action can prevent complications and support a smooth healing process. Proper aftercare is essential to maintaining the health of your piercing, reducing the risk of infection, and ensuring optimal healing. Always follow professional aftercare guidelines, and if you notice persistent pain, excessive swelling, or signs of a severe infection, seek medical attention immediately. Your health and safety should always come first.