The Dos and Don’ts of Healing Cartilage Piercings

Cartilage piercings have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people embrace body modification as a form of self-expression. While cartilage piercings can be a beautiful addition to your look, they also require proper care and attention in order to heal properly. If you’re considering getting a cartilage piercing or if you already have one, it’s important to know the dos and don’ts of healing cartilage piercings to ensure a smooth and successful healing process.

Dos:

1. Clean your piercing regularly: Cleaning your cartilage piercing is essential to prevent infection and promote healing. Use a saline solution or a gentle soap to clean the piercing twice a day. Make sure to rinse the piercing thoroughly to remove any residue.

2. Leave your piercing alone: While it may be tempting to touch or play with your new piercing, it’s important to leave it alone as much as possible. Touching the piercing can introduce bacteria and dirt, which can lead to infection.

3. Use a travel pillow for sleeping: Sleeping on your cartilage piercing can cause irritation and slow down the healing process. Using a travel pillow or a donut-shaped pillow can help alleviate pressure on the piercing while you sleep.

4. Be patient: Cartilage piercings can take longer to heal compared to other piercings, so it’s important to be patient. Avoid changing or removing the jewelry before the piercing is fully healed to prevent complications.

5. Consult a professional piercer: If you notice any signs of infection or if you have any concerns about your piercing, don’t hesitate to consult a professional piercer. They can provide advice on how to care for your piercing and recommend treatment if needed.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t use harsh cleaning products: Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other harsh cleaning products on your cartilage piercing. These products can irritate the skin and slow down the healing process.

2. Don’t twist or turn the jewelry: Twisting or turning the jewelry in your piercing can cause irritation and delay healing. Once the piercing is in place, leave it alone and let it heal on its own.

3. Don’t remove the jewelry prematurely: Removing the jewelry before the piercing is fully healed can cause the hole to close up and lead to infection. Wait until the piercing is fully healed before changing or removing the jewelry.

4. Don’t submerge your piercing in water: Avoid submerging your cartilage piercing in water, especially in pools, hot tubs, or other bodies of water. Water can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection.

5. Don’t use ear buds or headphones: Using ear buds or headphones that put pressure on the piercing can cause irritation and slow down the healing process. Opt for over-the-ear headphones or avoid using ear buds until the piercing is fully healed.

In conclusion, caring for a cartilage piercing requires patience, diligence, and proper hygiene practices. By following the dos and don’ts outlined above, you can ensure that your cartilage piercing heals properly and looks beautiful for years to come. If you have any concerns or questions about your piercing, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a professional piercer.