If you’ve decided that you no longer want a piercing, whether it’s because of a change in taste or simply because you don’t like it anymore, you’re probably wondering about the best way to remove it and what kind of scarring you can expect. In this article, we’ll explore the different options for removing a piercing, the healing process, and what you can do to minimize scarring.
Removing Your Piercing
Before you remove your piercing, it’s important to know what type of jewelry you have and how it was inserted. Removing the piercing yourself could be difficult or even dangerous depending on the type of jewelry and how it was inserted. In some cases, it may be necessary to seek the help of a professional piercer or a medical professional.
Types of Piercing Jewelry
Many types of piercing jewelry exist, including studs, rings, barbells, and more. Each type of jewelry requires a different removal method. For example, studs are usually removed by gently pulling on the front of the earring while holding the back steady, while rings and barbells may need to be unscrewed or gently twisted and pulled.
How the Piercing Was Inserted
The way your piercing was inserted can also affect how easy it is to remove. For example, if your piercing was done with a needle, the jewelry may be easier to remove because the hole is clean and straight. However, if your piercing was done with a gun, the jewelry may be more difficult to remove because the hole is often ragged and uneven.
Removing a Piercing Yourself
If you’re comfortable removing your piercing yourself, here are the general steps you should follow:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Gently twist or pull on the jewelry to see if it moves easily.
- If the jewelry doesn’t move easily, try gently twisting it or using a pair of pliers or tweezers to unscrew it.
- If the jewelry still doesn’t come out, don’t force it. Seek professional help.
Seeking Professional Help
If you’re uncomfortable removing your piercing yourself or having difficulty removing it, seek the help of a professional piercer or a medical professional. They can safely remove the jewelry and ensure that the piercing site is properly cared for.
Healing After Piercing Removal
After you remove your piercing, your body will begin healing. The healing process can vary depending on the type of piercing and how long you’ve had it.
What to Expect During Healing
During the healing process, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and redness at the site of the piercing. This is normal and usually resolves on its own within a few days. You may also notice some discharge or crusting around the piercing site. This is also normal and can be gently cleaned with a saline solution.
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
The healing time for a piercing can vary depending on the type of piercing and how long you’ve had it. Generally, ear piercings take about 6-8 weeks to heal, while other piercings can take anywhere from 6-12 months. Following proper aftercare instructions during the healing process is important to ensure that the piercing site heals properly.
How to Care for the Piercing Site During Healing
It’s important to keep the piercing site clean and dry during the healing process. You can clean the site with a saline solution, which can be purchased at most drug stores. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as they can be too harsh and delay healing. It’s also important to avoid touching the piercing site with dirty hands or allowing other people to touch it.
Signs of Infection
While some redness and swelling are normal during the healing process, it’s important to be aware of the signs of infection. These can include:
- Increased pain, swelling, or redness
- Pus or discharge that is green, yellow, or foul-smelling
- Fever or chills
- A rash or hives around the piercing site
If you notice any of these signs, seek medical attention immediately.
Minimizing Scarring After Piercing Removal
While some scarring is normal after piercing removal, there are things you can do to minimize the appearance of scars.
Proper Aftercare
Proper aftercare during the healing process can help minimize scarring. This includes keeping the piercing site clean and dry, avoiding touching or picking at the site, and following any aftercare instructions given by your piercer or medical professional.
Scar Reduction Treatments
If you already have scars from previous piercings, there are scar reduction treatments that can help minimize their appearance. These can include laser treatments, silicone sheets, and topical creams. Talking to a dermatologist or medical professional before starting any scar reduction treatments is important.
How To Close a Piercing Hole to Minimize Scarring
The visibility of a scar left by a fully healed piercing can depend on various factors, such as the age of the piercing and the type of tissue that was pierced. However, there are steps you can take to minimize scarring potentially.
After removing a piercing, the time it takes for the hole to close up can vary based on the age of the piercing. In general, even a piercing that is several years old can completely close up within a week. Once the hole has closed, keeping the area moisturized with lotion can aid in reducing the visibility of the scar. Research has shown that moisturizing the area during the scarification process can help lighten the appearance of the scar.
It’s important to remember that scars tend to improve over time. Even if the scar looks significant or concerning initially, it will likely lighten and shrink in size over the following weeks and months.
Can I Take a Fresh Piercing Out If I Don’t Like It?
In short, it’s important to continue caring for the piercing site as if it’s still in the healing process to prevent infection. This includes washing your hands and delicately removing the jewelry, or better yet, having a professional piercer remove it for you. If the piercing is not yet fully healed, it’s likely to close up within a few hours or days. It’s fortunate that the younger the piercing, the lower the chances of noticeable scarring.
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FAQs Don’t Want a Piercing Anymore
Q: Will removing my piercing cause a scar?
A: It’s normal to have some scarring after removing a piercing, but proper aftercare during the healing process can help minimize the appearance of scars.
Q: Can I remove my piercing myself?
A: It’s possible to remove some piercings yourself, but it’s important to know what type of jewelry you have and how it was inserted. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, seek the help of a professional piercer or medical professional.
Q: How long does it take for a piercing to heal after it’s been removed?
A: The healing time can vary depending on the type of piercing and how long you’ve had it. Generally, ear piercings take about 6-8 weeks to heal, while other piercings can take anywhere from 6-12 months.
Conclusion
If you’re considering removing a piercing, knowing what to expect during the removal process, the healing process, and how to minimize scarring is essential. By following proper aftercare instructions and seeking the help of a professional when needed, you can ensure that the removal process goes smoothly and that you heal properly. Remember, if you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to talk to a professional piercer or medical professional.
