Categories: FASHION

Facts you must know before you get pierced

While piercings may look cool, if you’re thinking of getting one, go to an authentic place to get it done and keep yourself updated on how to take care of it to avoid infection. While getting a piercing done won’t take long, it takes a long time to heal completely. Here’s what you should keep in mind.

Always go to an expert

Do your research well. Going to someone with good credentials and experience would be a good idea.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr Mohan Thoman says, “Visit a competent physician and follow their instructions. Remember to get as much information as you can about the type of piercing so you can ask the right questions to the person rendering the service.”

Make sure the instruments used are sterilised and insist on checking them beforehand.

Ask doubts

It’s okay to ask whatever questions you have on your mind. There’s no need to feel awkward about sounding like an idiot. Make sure your piercing artist is wearing disposable gloves and familiarise yourself with the procedure before you go for it.

“It is advisable to visit the facility and get a first hand impression of the cleanliness as well as the universal precautions that must be followed. Ask the service provider whether the needles/ instruments used are disposable or reusable. If they are not disposable, enquire about the methods of sterilisation and assess whether they meet established standards,” Dr Thomas advises.

Brace yourself

Which ever area you choose to pierce will be disinfected using an antiseptic. A few minutes later, a sterile needle will be used for the piercing. Thereafter the area is cleaned and a piece of jewellery is inserted. Find out if you’re allergic to any type of metal beforehand and opt for surgical steel since it is the safest. While your expert will tell you exactly what you need to take care of your new piercing, you need to take extra precautions on your own, too.

“The best way to take care of a new piercing is to keep the area clean and so that the newly pierced area is free of dust and germs. Sometimes a dressing is preferable. Once the dressing is removed, it is recommended that you clean the area well with 50 per cent diluted hydrogen peroxide followed by distilled water or saline water and a thin film of an antibiotic cream,” Dr Thomas informs.

Oral piercings

A lip or tongue piercing usually takes over four weeks to heal. Initially you have to ice it at regular intervals to reduce swelling. Have things to eat that don’t require much chewing and gargle with a mouthwash after every meal. Lip piercings need antibiotic creams daily. Don’t touch the piercing and don’t remove the metal till the wound heals completely.

Other piercings

Always wash your hands before you attempt to clean the pierced area. Pus discharge is normal, wash it gently with lukewarm water. Use a mild soap and gently clean the pierced area.