How to Care for Your New Piercings: Aftercare Tips From Experts

A new piercing can be an exciting way to express style and individuality, but proper care is essential to ensure a smooth healing process and reduce the risk of complications. Whether it’s a nose, ear, or navel piercing, aftercare plays a vital role in protecting the piercing site from infection and promoting long-term results. The following expert-backed tips from our team at Vanity Touch can help anyone keep their new piercing clean, healthy, and well-maintained.

Clean the Piercings Area Gently and Consistently

Keeping the piercing area clean is the foundation of effective aftercare. Experts at Vanity Touch recommend cleaning the site twice daily using a sterile saline solution or hypochlorous acid spray. Individuals should avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh soaps, as these can irritate the skin and slow healing.

It’s important to wash hands thoroughly before touching the piercing and use clean, disposable materials—such as gauze or cotton pads—when applying the solution or simply just spray from a distance. Avoid rotating or twisting the jewelry during cleaning, as this can damage healing tissue.

Avoid Touching or Playing with the Jewelry

One of the most common causes of irritation or infection comes from frequently touching the piercing. Hands carry bacteria, and introducing them to a fresh wound increases the risk of complications. It's essential to resist the urge to twist, fidget with, or remove the jewelry during the healing process.

Even if the area feels itchy or slightly swollen, it's best to let the piercing settle on its own. If any movement is necessary, such as adjusting clothing near a navel or cartilage piercing, use clean hands and minimal contact.

Be Mindful of Sleep and Clothing

New piercings are sensitive and can easily become irritated by pressure or friction. Sleeping directly on a fresh ear, navel, or nose piercing can prolong healing and lead to uneven healing paths. It's advisable to sleep on the opposite side or use a travel pillow to protect the area. Loose, breathable clothing that doesn’t snag on the jewelry is also recommended. Avoid hats, scarves, or tight neckwear that might rub against or pull on ear or nose piercings.

Watch for Signs of Irritation or Infection

Swelling, redness, and slight tenderness are common in the first few days after getting pierced. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it could signal an infection. Warning signs include green or yellow discharge, excessive pain, or a hot sensation around the area.

In such cases, it's important to avoid removing the jewelry—removal can trap the infection—and instead consult with one of our piercers at Vanity Touch. Staying proactive about unusual symptoms helps ensure early intervention and a smooth recovery.

Avoid Swimming and Harsh Environments

During the healing period, exposure to water in public pools, lakes, or hot tubs should be avoided. These environments may contain bacteria that could compromise the piercing site. Similarly, excessive sweat or steam—such as from saunas or strenuous workouts—can lead to irritation. When showering, it’s best to let clean water gently run over the piercing, followed by patting the area dry with a clean towel or paper product.

Navel piercings in particular require extra caution, as their location makes them more prone to trapping moisture and bacteria. Tight clothing, waistbands, and sitting postures can create a warm, humid environment around the piercing, increasing the risk of irritation or infection. Opt for loose-fitting clothing and be especially diligent about drying the area thoroughly after any exposure to water.

Be Patient with the Healing Timeline

Every piercing has a unique healing timeline depending on its placement and the individual’s skin type. Earlobe piercings typically heal quicker, while nostril piercings will take several months. During this time, it’s important to avoid changing the jewelry prematurely, even if the site appears healed on the surface.

Internal tissues may still be sensitive. Following through with regular aftercare until a professional confirms healing is complete will help preserve the integrity of the piercing.

Whether you're planning your first piercing or need advice for a new one, we are here to help. At Vanity Touch Aesthetic Enhancements, we prioritize client safety, comfort, and long-lasting results. Book your appointment today for piercing or aftercare recommendations.