Nursing your Belly Piercing

Cleaning an infected belly piercing is important to promote healing and prevent further complications. They do get infected, and only the proper care can get you out of this mess. If you suspect your piercing is looking funny, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper guidance. You can either visit your doctor or a certified piercer for a solution. However, there are general steps you can take to clean an infected belly piercing:

Wash Your Hands:

Before touching the belly button piercing, wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap. Rinsing is also acceptable, but the cleaner your hands are, the less the chance of infection. 

Saline Solution Soaks

Soak the piercing in a saline solution. You can either buy a saline solution from a pharmacy or make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in 8 ounces of warm distilled water. Use a clean cup to soak the piercing for about 5-10 minutes. Salt acts as a cleaning agent and does not overly affect piercing and jewellery. 

Gentle Cleaning:

Use a mild, fragrance-free, antibacterial soap to clean the piercing. Gently lather the soap around the piercing and rinse it off thoroughly. Make sure to avoid harsh rubbing or vigorous cleaning. Fragrances might smell nice, but they can be harsh on a healing piercing. Opt for fragrance-free soap to minimize the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.

Avoid Harsh Products:

Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh chemicals on the piercing, as they can irritate the skin and delay the healing process. When you use potent chemicals, it can endanger your piercing health and also the shape of your jewellery. 

Pat Dry:

After cleaning, pat the area dry with a clean, disposable paper towel. Avoid using cloth towels, as they may harbour bacteria. 

Avoid Rotation:

Do not rotate or twist the jewellery during the cleaning process, as this can introduce more bacteria and disrupt the healing process. When caring for a new belly ring or cleaning old jewellery, it's essential to exercise caution to prevent complications and promote a smooth healing process. 

Avoid Irritants:

Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing that can rub against the piercing and cause irritation. Also, avoid swimming in pools or hot tubs until the infection has cleared.

Topical Antibiotics:

If your healthcare professional recommends it, you may apply a topical antibiotic ointment as directed. Make sure to use the ointment exactly as they tell you. Follow their instructions to the letter. Think of the antibiotic ointment like a superhero shield for your piercing. It adds an extra layer of protection against germs that could cause infections.

Consult a Professional:

If the infection persists or worsens, seek advice from a healthcare professional or your piercer. They may recommend antibiotics or other treatments. These professionals know their stuff. They've seen all sorts of piercings and infections, so they can give you the best advice based on their experience and knowledge.

Take Care of Overall Health:

Ensure you have a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and get adequate rest, as these factors contribute to overall well-being and can aid in the healing process. Water is your body's best friend. It helps in flushing out toxins and keeps your skin and tissues hydrated. When your body is hydrated, it functions better, including the healing of your piercing. So, sip on that water throughout the day.

Remember that if you suspect an infection, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional promptly. They can provide proper diagnosis and treatment based on the severity of the infection. If the infection is severe or spreading, do not attempt to treat it at home, and seek medical attention immediately.