Body piercings have become increasingly popular over the years, and it’s not hard to see why. A piercing can be an excellent way to express yourself and show off your unique style. However, getting a piercing isn’t just about the initial experience; it’s also about the healing process.
One question that many people have when they get a new piercing is whether or not they should move it around as it heals. In this article, we will take a closer look at this question and provide you with everything you need to know about moving piercings while healing.
The Origins and Persistence of Misguided Piercing Advice
The origin of the rumor can be attributed to two common beliefs held by those who endorse this advice. The first is that relocating the jewelry is effective in preventing it from sticking to the skin, while the second suggests that twisting the jewelry after applying cleaner is an effective way of cleaning the inside of the piercing. However, this advice is now considered outdated and misleading, and is still sometimes given by untrained mall piercers or individuals who haven’t kept up with the latest research on piercing care.
What Happens During the Healing Process?
Before we dive into the question of whether or not you should move your piercing around while it’s healing, let’s take a moment to discuss what happens during the healing process.
When you get a piercing, your body treats it as a wound and begins the healing process. The first thing that happens is that your body sends white blood cells to the area to fight off any potential infections. This is why it’s essential to keep your piercing clean and dry during the healing process.
Next, your body will start to produce new skin cells to close up the wound. This is where scabbing and crusting can occur. Finally, your body will start to produce collagen to strengthen the area around the piercing, which can take up to a year or more.
Why You Shouldn’t Touch Your Piercing at All?
To put it simply, treating your piercing as a scab is the best way to explain why touching it is not a good idea. Your piercing is a healing part of your body, similar to a scab, and if you touch it, you risk damaging it and prolonging the healing process. Additionally, the idea that your jewelry will fuse to your skin is a myth that originated from changing jewelry too early, which can cause harm during the healing process. It is also unnecessary to clean the inside of piercings, as your body is capable of self-healing and forms a protective barrier around the piercing within an hour of getting it done. It is essential to avoid bumping or breaking this barrier to prevent infection during the healing process.
Moving Piercings While Healing: Is It Bad to Move Your Piercing While It’s Healing?
Now that we better understand what happens during the healing process, let’s get to the question at hand. Should you move your piercing around as it heals?
The short answer is no; you should not move your piercing around while it’s healing. Here’s why:
Movement Can Cause Damage
When you move your piercing around, you risk damaging the area around it. This can cause irritation, swelling, and even scarring. Additionally, moving your piercing around can also disrupt the healing process, which can lead to a longer healing time.
Movement Can Introduce Bacteria
Your hands and fingers are full of bacteria; when you touch your piercing, you can introduce those bacteria into the wound. This can lead to infections, which can be painful and even dangerous. Therefore, avoiding touching your piercing as much as possible is essential, especially during the healing process.
Movement Can Cause Jewelry to Shift
When you move your piercing around, you risk causing the jewelry to shift, leading to discomfort or even causing the piercing to close up. It’s essential to leave your jewelry in place during the healing process to ensure that it heals correctly.
Tips for Healing Your Piercing
Now that we know that you shouldn’t move your piercing around while it’s healing, let’s talk about some tips for healing your piercing properly.
Keep it Clean and Dry
The most important thing you can do to help your piercing heal is to keep it clean and dry. Clean your piercing twice daily with a saline solution, mild soap, and warm water. Also, dry it thoroughly after cleaning to prevent bacteria growth.
Avoid Touching It
As we mentioned earlier, avoiding touching your piercing as much as possible is essential. If you need to touch it, wash your hands thoroughly first.
Don’t Change Your Jewelry Too Soon
Changing your jewelry as soon as possible can be tempting, but waiting until your piercing is fully healed is essential. Changing your jewelry too soon can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Be Patient
Finally, it’s essential to be patient during the healing process. Remember that healing takes time, and rushing the process can lead to complications and a longer healing time. Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer, and don’t hesitate to contact them if you have any concerns.
Recommended Article: Tips for Keeping Your Piercings Safe During Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take for a piercing to heal?
A: The healing time for a piercing can vary depending on the location of the piercing and your healing process. Generally, most piercings take anywhere from six weeks to six months to heal fully, and some piercings, such as cartilage piercings, can take up to a year or more.
Q: Can I change my jewelry during the healing process?
A: It’s best to wait until your piercing is fully healed before changing your jewelry. Changing your jewelry too soon can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
Q: What should I do if my piercing gets infected?
A: If you suspect your piercing is infected, seeing a healthcare professional as soon as possible is essential. They can provide the appropriate treatment to help clear up the infection and prevent any complications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while getting a piercing can be an exciting and empowering experience, taking the healing process seriously is essential. Moving your piercing around while it’s healing can be harmful and disrupt the healing process, leading to complications and a longer healing time. Instead, focus on keeping your piercing clean and dry, avoiding touching it as much as possible, and being patient. With proper aftercare, your piercing will heal correctly, and you can enjoy it for years.
