Piercing is a common practice that involves making holes in the body so jewelry can be worn. The most popular place for a piercing is the earlobe but people also pierce their noses, eyebrows, lips, tongues, belly buttons, and genitals. Body piercings can cause infection, so it is important to choose an experienced piercer who uses clean and sterile needles and equipment. The piercing should also be kept clean to prevent bacteria from breeding.
If you want a piercing, talk to friends about where they have theirs done and who they recommend. Also, ask the piercer for pictures of previous customers’ work. This will give you an idea of the quality of the piercings in Swansboro and the cleanliness of the salon. The jewelry used in piercings should be high-quality and made of metal that is easy on the skin. Stainless steel is usually the best option because it will not cause a reaction to the skin. Gold, titanium and niobium are also safe choices but can be more expensive.
The piercing should be cleaned at least twice daily with a mild antibacterial soap and saline solution or distilled water. Never use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on the piercing, as they can irritate the skin and delay healing. Avoid putting pressure on the pierced area and do not try to spit out the piercing, as this can lead to an infection. People who work out frequently or sweat a lot should wash their hands frequently and shower with antibacterial soap to reduce the risk of an infection.
An infected piercing may look red, swollen or scabby. If you notice pus or drainage, pain or tenderness or a white or yellow discharge, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Other symptoms that may indicate an infection are a fever, chills or a headache.
Some piercing sites are more prone to forming keloids or scarring, so it is important for teens who want a piercing to talk with their doctor before getting it. They should also talk to their piercer about the different types of jewelry that can be worn in their chosen site and avoid wearing anything too heavy or tight.
Body piercings are a fun way to express yourself and add to your unique personality. However, they can be very painful and can cause infections, so it’s important to choose a reputable piercer who uses sterile tools and follows proper procedure. Also, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor before getting a piercing if you have chronic health conditions, take prescription medications or have any other concerns about the procedure.