Piercings: How to prevent complications?
Know the risks
A body piercing is that the creation of a gap during a part of the body for the insertion of jewelry. It's rarely done with a numbing agent (anesthetic).
Any sort of piercing poses a risk of complications, including:
- Allergic reactions. Some piercing jewelry — particularly pieces made from nickel — can cause allergies.
- Other skin problems. Piercing can cause scars and raised areas caused by an overgrowth of connective tissue (keloids).
You might need medication or other treatment if you develop an allergy, infection, or another skin disease near the piercing.
Make sure you're ready
Before you get a piercing, think twice about it. Consider the situation of the piercing and whether you will be ready to conceal the piercing if necessary — like at work.
If you're unsure about the piercing or worry that you simply might regret it someday, consider waiting.
If you're sure you would like to urge a piercing, ask friends who have them. Find out if they have suggestions or regrets.
Insist on safety precautions
- Does the piercer use proper equipment? While some venues use piercing guns for earlobe piercing, the Association of Professional Piercers cautions that reusable piercing guns cannot be properly sterilized and may damage ear tissue.
- Does the piercer use hypoallergenic jewelry? Look for surgical chrome steel, titanium, niobium, or 14- or 18-karat gold.
Take good care of your piercing
The skin around a replacement piercing could be swollen, red, and tender for a couple of days. It might bleed slightly. If the swelling, redness, and bleeding last longer than a couple of days, contact your doctor. Prompt treatment can help prevent potentially serious complications.
To prevent infection and encourage healing:
- Clean skin piercings. If you've had your skin pierced, clean the location twice each day with soap and water. Be sure to scrub your hands before cleaning your piercing site.
- Don't fiddle with your piercings. Don't touch a replacement piercing or twist the jewelry unless you're cleaning it. Keep clothing away from the piercing, too.
Comments
Post a Comment