A Navel piercing is one of the most popular choices among piercing enthusiasts. However, sometimes you might notice redness, swelling, or other symptoms that could suggest an infection. In most cases, it’s just irritation. In this article, we’ll explain how to distinguish between an infection and irritation, how to care for your piercing, and the best practices for optimal healing.
The Difference Between Infection and Irritation
The most common discomfort after getting a piercing is irritation, which can be caused by various factors, such as:
- Friction: Tight clothing rubbing against the piercing.
- Chemicals: Harsh soaps or lotions.
- Excessive Movement: Handling the piercing too much.
How can you tell if your piercing is irritated? Some symptoms include:
- Redness: The skin around the piercing appears red.
- Swelling: The area may be slightly swollen.
- Mild Pain: Manageable pain, especially when touched.
A piercing infection is less common but can occur if proper hygiene practices aren’t followed or if the piercing is exposed to bacteria.
Common symptoms of an infected piercing include:
- Intense Redness: The area appears very red and extends beyond the piercing.
- Significant Swelling: Noticeable and painful swelling.
- Sharp Pain: Persistent and intense pain.
- Pus: Yellow or green discharge present.
Cleaning the Piercing: The Key to Smooth Healing
The number one rule to follow is this: don’t disinfect, but clean.
One of the most common misconceptions is that a piercing needs to be disinfected. In reality, a belly button piercing should be cleaned, not disinfected. Disinfectants can be too harsh and cause further irritation.
How to Clean the Piercing: Step-by-Step Guide
Before touching the piercing, always wash your hands with soap and water. Then, use a saline solution to gently clean the area. Rinse gently with warm water, and finally, pat the piercing dry with tissue paper, toilet paper, or a tissue.
Post-Piercing Best Practices
- Listen to Your Piercer: Your piercer is your best ally when it comes to healing a piercing. Follow their post-piercing instructions carefully and don’t hesitate to ask for advice if you notice anything unusual.
- Avoid Touching the Jewelry: Frequently touching the piercing with dirty hands can introduce bacteria and cause infections.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: During the healing period, wear loose and breathable clothing to reduce friction on the piercing.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use soaps, lotions, or other products that can irritate the skin around the piercing.
Piercing Still Hurts: When to Consult a Doctor
If the symptoms of irritation don’t improve after a few days of proper care, it’s advisable to consult your piercer. In case of suspected infection, your piercer will assess the situation and recommend if medical intervention is necessary. Don’t ignore their professional advice.
Taking care of a belly button piercing requires attention and patience. Often, what seems like an infection is just irritation that can be easily resolved with proper cleaning and following recommended best practices. Always consult your piercer with any concerns and follow their instructions to ensure a healthy and safe healing process.