All About Saline Solutions for Piercings
Getting a cute new piercing jewellery is super thrilling, as long as you keep it clean and away from unwanted complications, which frankly often happen due to our own errors. Using saline solution is an old and tested method to keep those amazing piercings fresh and healthy.
So, whether you are into it for just fun or regularly add on super cool piercing designs in your life, you must have knowledge about the saline solution and how amazingly it works wonders.
What is Saline Solution Anyways?
It is basically a simple mix of salt and water which awesomely takes care of all the new piercing wounds, especially during the initial piercing healing days.
The salt in the solution mimics the salts of your body, making it a perfect cleaner for wounds. When you use saline on a fresh piercing, it helps soothe swelling, clears away any crusty bits, and fights off infection-causing bacteria.
This gentle process is paramount for proper healing and avoiding irritation, scars, or infections. Plus, it helps calm down any swelling, making your piercing heal faster and feel better.
The Use of Saline Solution
The main aspect of using this magical solution for piercing is with care and consistency. It keeps your piercing happy, and when you start with its proper application, the change happens.
First off, clean your piercing with saline solution 1-2 times daily, as your piercer advises. Apply the solution for 5-10 minutes each time to gently remove any crusties or dried fluid.
When you use it, make sure the solution is warm, not hot, as hot water can annoy your piercing and slow down healing. Lukewarm is just right.
Going overboard with saline solution can cause problems, so you have to be in moderation. Too much of it can dry out your piercing and lead to issues and problems.
After soaking, gently pat your piercing dry with a clean paper towel or cloth. Try not to rub. Less touching means less irritation.
While your piercing heals, keep it simple. Stick to the saline solution only. Avoid cotton swabs, alcohol, or other cleaners. They can mess with the healing process.
Why is the Saline solution a Pro-Choice?
Saline solution is a must-have for proper piercing care, offering a ton of benefits. This simple mix of salt and water is crucial for helping your new piercing heal smoothly and stay healthy.
The salt in it has a soothing effect that calms redness and puffiness, making your piercing feel better as it heals.
It's also great for keeping things clean. Saline gently cleans away crusties, lymph fluid, and other gunk that can build up without irritating your sensitive piercing area.
No matter where your piercing is, ear, nose, lip, or anywhere else, saline solution is safe and effective for caring for it. It's adaptable and works wonders for keeping your piercing looking and feeling its best.
When To Not Use Saline Solution?
At some point in your piercing's journey to healing, you'll need to shift from using saline solution to a regular cleaning routine. But how do you know when it's time?
Once your piercing is totally healed, you can usually stop using saline solution. This usually takes anywhere from 4 to 12 months, depending on the type of piercing. Here are signs that indicate your piercing is ready:
- The piercing site isn't tender or swollen anymore.
- There's no crusty buildup or discharge around the piercing.
- Your piercing looks smooth and healed, with no redness or irritation.
When you spot these signs, you can start easing off the saline solution and switch to a mild, fragrance-free soap and water routine for cleaning.
Don't rush this transition. Your piercing still needs extra care while healing. But once it's fully healed, gradually phase out the saline solution and switch to a gentler maintenance routine.
How To Make Saline Solution At Home
Making your own saline solution for piercing care at home is easy and budget-friendly. Here's what you'll need:
Ingredients
- 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 cup of distilled or bottled water
Instructions
1. Boil the water to sterilize it. Let it cool until it's warm but not too hot.
2. Add the salt to the water and stir until it dissolves completely.
Storage Options
Store your homemade saline solution in a clean, airtight container. It's good for 5-7 days. Be careful with the salt amount. Don't use more than 1/4 teaspoon per cup of water to avoid irritation.
Whipping up your own saline solution at home is a savvy move for taking care of your piercing. This homemade blend is just as effective as what you'd buy in stores, ensuring your piercing stays clean and happy. Follow these steps to craft a gentle rinse that helps your new piercing heal smoothly.