Body Piercing has been an expression of art and individuality for centuries. Whether it’s a simple earlobe piercing or a complex body modification, people have been adorning their bodies with various kinds of jewelry for a long time. However, one crucial aspect of piercing is the jewelry itself. The quality and material of jewelry can significantly affect the healing process and overall health of the piercing. In this article, we will discuss the problem with externally threaded jewelry, its drawbacks, and alternatives.
What is Externally Threaded Jewelry?
Externally threaded jewelry is a type of body jewelry where the threads are visible on the outside of the barbell. In this type of jewelry, the barbell is inserted through the piercing, and the threaded ball is screwed onto the barbell from the outside. The threads are exposed to the piercing, which can cause discomfort, irritation, and even damage to the healing tissue.
The Problem with Externally Threaded Jewelry:
Discomfort and Irritation:
As the threads of externally threaded jewelry are exposed to the piercing, they can rub against the healing tissue, causing discomfort and irritation. This friction can also delay the healing process, making the piercing prone to infections and other complications.
Difficulty in Insertion:
As externally threaded jewelry has threads on the outside, inserting it into the piercing can be challenging. The threads can catch on the tissue, causing pain and damage to the piercing. This difficulty in insertion can also make it challenging to change the jewelry frequently.
Risk of Infection:
The threads on externally threaded jewelry can harbor bacteria and germs, increasing the risk of infection. As the threads are exposed to the piercing, they can transfer the bacteria to the healing tissue, causing infection and other complications.
Damage to the Piercing:
As externally threaded jewelry has threads on the outside, they can cause damage to the piercing if not handled correctly. The threads can snag on clothing or other objects, causing pain, bleeding, and even tearing of the piercing.
Alternatives to Externally Threaded Jewelry:
Internally Threaded Jewelry:
Internally threaded jewelry is a type of body jewelry where the threads are inside the barbell. In this type of jewelry, the barbell is inserted through the piercing, and the threaded ball is screwed onto the barbell from the inside. As the threads are hidden, there is no friction against the piercing, making it more comfortable and easier to insert. Additionally, as the threads are inside, there is a lower risk of infection and damage to the piercing.
Threadless Jewelry:
Threadless jewelry is a type of body jewelry where the ends of the jewelry snap into place on the barbell. There are no threads in this type of jewelry, making it easier to insert and change the jewelry. As there are no exposed threads, the risk of infection and damage to the piercing is also lower.
Seamless Jewelry:
Seamless jewelry is a type of body jewelry where the barbell is a continuous loop with no threads or joints. This type of jewelry has no risk of threads rubbing against the piercing, making it more comfortable and less prone to infections and damage.
Externally threaded jewelry risks
Externally threaded jewelry can pose several risks to a piercing, including discomfort, irritation, and damage to the healing tissue. The threads on the outside of the jewelry can rub against the tissue, causing friction and delaying healing. The exposed threads can also harbor bacteria and germs, increasing the risk of infection. The threads can also catch on clothing or other objects, causing pain, bleeding, and even tearing of the piercing. As externally threaded jewelry can be challenging to insert and change, it is essential to consider alternatives such as internally threaded, threadless, or seamless jewelry to minimize these risks and promote healing.
Pros and Cons of externally threaded jewelry
Externally threaded jewelry has both pros and cons when it comes to body piercing. On the one hand, it is often less expensive than internally threaded jewelry and widely available in many designs and materials. Additionally, some people prefer the look of externally threaded jewelry and find it easier to grip and screw on the threaded balls. However, on the other hand, externally threaded jewelry can cause discomfort, irritation, and damage to the healing tissue due to the exposed threads. It can also be challenging to insert and change the jewelry, increasing the risk of infection and other complications. As such, it is recommended to consider the alternatives, such as internally threaded or threadless jewelry, to minimize these risks and promote healing.
FAQs:
Q: What is the difference between internally threaded and externally threaded jewelry?
A: The main difference between internally threaded and externally threaded jewelry is the location of the threads. In externally threaded jewelry, the threads are exposed on the outside of the barbell, while in internally threaded jewelry, the threads are hidden inside the barbell.
Q: Is externally threaded jewelry more prone to infections?
A: Yes, externally threaded jewelry is more prone to infections as the threads can harbor bacteria and transfer it to the healing tissue.
Q: Can I change my jewelry frequently with externally threaded jewelry?
A: It can be difficult to change jewelry frequently with externally threaded jewelry as the threads can catch on the tissue, causing pain and damage to the piercing. It is recommended to wait until the piercing has healed before changing the jewelry and to consider using alternatives such as internally threaded or threadless jewelry.
Q: Is there any specific material that is better for jewelry?
A: Yes, there are specific materials that are better for jewelry, such as titanium, surgical steel, and gold. These materials are less likely to cause allergic reactions and are generally more biocompatible, making them better for healing piercings.
Q: How do I know if my piercing is infected?
A: Signs of infection in a piercing include redness, swelling, pain, warmth, and discharge of pus or other fluids. If you suspect your piercing is infected, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the quality and material of jewelry can significantly affect the healing process and overall health of a piercing. Externally threaded jewelry can cause discomfort, irritation, and even damage to the healing tissue, as well as increase the risk of infection. Alternatives such as internally threaded, threadless, and seamless jewelry are recommended to minimize these risks and promote healing. When choosing jewelry, it is essential to consider the material, quality, and design to ensure the best possible outcome for your piercing.
