Introduction
Belly button piercing has become a popular trend that people of all ages continue to embrace. However, maintaining cleanliness and proper care of one’s piercing is important to prevent infections and promote healing. According to a report by the American Academy of Dermatology Association, an infected piercing can lead to scarring, skin irritation, and even blood poisoning if left untreated.
4 Simple Steps for Keeping Your Belly Button Piercing Clean
The following four simple steps are essential for keeping your belly button piercing clean:
Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly
Bacteria is attracted to moist and dark places, making your belly button piercing vulnerable to infection. Therefore, washing your hands with soap and water before touching your piercing is essential to maintain hygiene.
Step 2: Clean the area around your piercing
Using saline water or a mild soap, clean the area around the piercing with a gentle touch. Avoid rotating the piercing, as it can delay the healing process.
Step 3: Soak the area with a saline solution
Soaking your piercing in a saline solution every day is one of the most effective cleaning techniques. To create saline water, mix ¼ teaspoon of sea salt with 8 ounces of warm water.
Step 4: Dry the area gently
After soaking or cleaning your belly button piercing, dry the area gently and avoid rubbing it with rough towels.
The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for Your New Belly Button Piercing
Here are some vital dos and don’ts of caring for your new belly button piercing:
Do keep your piercing dry
Moisture can delay the healing process and attract bacteria. To avoid moisture, avoid swimming, using hot tubs, or taking long showers.
Do clean your piercing regularly
Regular cleaning is necessary for preventing infections, and you should begin cleaning your piercing two to three times a day for the first three months after getting it.
Do wear loose and comfortable clothing
Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to avoid rubbing or irritating your piercing.
Don’t touch your piercing without washing your hands
Touching your piercing with dirty hands can introduce bacteria and other germs, leading to infections. Wash your hands with soap and water before touching your piercing.
Don’t use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on your piercing
Alcohol and hydrogen peroxide can damage your skin, causing irritation and delaying the healing process.
Cleaning Your Belly Button Piercing: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your belly button piercing:
Step 1: Clean your hands with soap and water
Before touching your piercing, it’s crucial to ensure your hands are clean with soap and water.
Step 2: Soak a sterile cotton swab in saline solution
After cleaning your hands, soak a sterile cotton swab in saline solution or a mild soap.
Step 3: Gently clean the area around your piercing
With the soaked cotton swab, clean the area around your piercing carefully. Do not apply too much pressure or rotate the jewelry.
Step 4: Rinse your piercing with water
Rinse your belly button piercing with water to remove any cleaning solution left on the skin.
Step 5: Dry the area gently
After rinsing, pat the area dry with a clean, soft towel gently.
3 Homemade Solutions for Cleaning Your Belly Button Piercing
If you prefer homemade solutions to commercial products, here are some easy-to-make solutions to keep your piercing clean:
Solution 1: Saltwater solution
Mix ½ teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water to create a saltwater solution. Soak your piercing in this solution for 10 minutes to keep your piercing clean and healthy.
Solution 2: Tea tree oil and water mixture
Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with warm water. Soak a cotton swab in the mixture and clean the area around your piercing by gently rubbing the solution on your skin.
Solution 3: Baking soda and water mixture
Mix baking soda with water to create a paste-like consistency. Apply the mixture to your piercing for 10 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
The Importance of Proper Aftercare for Your Belly Button Piercing: Tips and Tricks
Proper aftercare is essential for keeping your piercing healthy and preventing infections. Here are some tips and tricks to maintain your belly button piercing:
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer
Your piercer will provide you with aftercare instructions customized to your piercing. Follow them to the letter to promote healing and prevent infections.
Avoid swimming in pools or lakes
Swimming in lakes and pools increases your risk of infection. Wait until your piercing has fully healed before swimming.
Take care of your piercing from the inside out
Eating healthy foods such as fruits and veggies can promote healing and prevent infections. Avoid consuming excessive alcohol, spicy foods, and caffeine that can irritate your piercing.
How to Avoid Infections and Promote Healing for Your Belly Button Piercing
Signs of infection
Symptoms of a piercing infection include pain, redness, swelling, pus, and hotness around the piercing area. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Tips to promote healing
Follow your aftercare instructions, keep your piercing clean, and avoid touching it with dirty hands. Wearing loose clothing and consuming a healthy diet can also promote healing.
When to seek medical attention
If you notice any of the symptoms of an infection or if you experience fever or chills, seek medical help immediately.
Conclusion
Proper cleaning and aftercare are crucial for maintaining a healthy and beautiful belly button piercing. Follow the recommended guidelines mentioned in this article, and if you experience any problems, seek medical attention right away.
