HEALTH

 

If you haven't gotten a piercing before, it can be quite scary: What will it feel like? Does it hurt? What if it gets infected? Being afraid is normal but you don't have to be. Here are our top tips on what to do before and after you get your ears pierced.

Before getting a piercing:

Figure out what you want.
Unless you are feeling spontaneous, you should have an idea of where you want the piercing. Look up pictures, its healing process and types of jewelry you can wear with them.

Know what you're sensitive to.
If you pierce your ears with the wrong kind of jewelry, it can lead to an ear infection. It's safe to pierce your ears with sterling seilver or gold if you don't know what you're allergic too. Platinum is another good hypoallergic choice if you have sensitive skin. To know more about allergies when piercing your ear, click here.

Take someone with you.
If you're under 18, you have to bring Mom or Dad with you so they can sign the forms. But if you're really freaking out and your parents aren't exactly the comforting type, ask your BFF to go with you, too. You'll feel way more comfortable.

 After piercing:

YAY! You finally pierced your ears and in love with your choice of jewellry. The jitters of getting your ear piercing has passed and it's time to treat it properly so it can stay that way. Here are things you should know so that you don't get an infection and your ears heal.

Clean the right way. 
Always remember to wash your hands with antibacterial soap before cleaning. Dip a cotton swab in the solution given to you buy the piercing technician or a sea salt solution and clean the front of the piercing. Repeat this for the back of the piercing. Make sure to twist/ rotate the earring two to three times to make sure the piercing hole doesn't heal tightly and the solution can get inside the hole as well.

Be cautious when showering or swimming.
Make sure shampoo doesnt seep into the piercing by covering it up before hand and making sure to clean the piercing after. The same goes for swimming: Clean the piercing before and after.

Be mindful of infections. 
If you notice ears are still red or swollen at least after a week of getting your ears pierced, you can get your doctor to look at it. More signs of infection may include discharge, pus, extreme pain, and tearing of the earlobes. If you discover jewelry caused the infection, you will have to take it out to heal. The only problem is the ear will heal back up and you will have to wait to get them done again. If these issues persist, see your doctor for treatment of your ear.

Don't touch! 
Make sure not to touch your piercings if you haven't washed your hands. Also, be careful with parts of clothing that may pull the earring and get stuck. Another good tip is to sleep on your back to avoid infections and pains that may come while sleeping on your ear.

Be patient.
We get that you're excited to switch out your earrings for something more your style but don't rush it. Earlobe piercings usually take between six to nine weeks to fully heal (cartilage piercings are 8-12) before you can change your jewelry. Switching it too early can ruin the piercing or lead to infection.

Do you have your ears pierced? Share what you learned below! 

We want to hear from you! Send us your weirdest body questions here (seriously, we'll answer anything!) and it just might get featured.

by Timi Awoyinka | 7/23/2017