Theo Nash
Alcohol is not recommended for cleaning new piercings as it can damage the sensitive tissue of a healing wound, cause severe dryness, and kill new healthy cells. Instead, piercing aftercare products should be sterile and non-irritating, such as a simple saline solution. Salt soaks are also recommended for cleaning piercings and the surrounding skin.
Characteristics and Values table for cleaning piercings with alcohol
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use of alcohol to clean piercings | Not recommended for all jewelry types, may cause discoloration or deterioration |
| Alternative cleaning methods | Liquid antibacterial soap, saline solution, or water and fragrance-free soap |
| Application method | Cotton swab, Q-tip, or saline spray |
| Frequency | Twice a day |
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$24.68 $29.98
$26.58 $27.99
What You'll Learn
Why you shouldn't use alcohol on piercings
Alcohol is not recommended for cleaning piercings. While it was commonly used in the past to clean wounds and jewellery, it is now known to be ineffective and even harmful for piercings.
Firstly, a properly performed body piercing is not a dirty wound. It is created in a sterile environment with clean implements and jewellery, making it one of the cleanest wounds you can get. As such, harsh cleaning products like alcohol are not necessary and can do more harm than good.
Secondly, alcohol can slow down the healing process by drying out the skin and killing new healthy cells. This can lead to severe dryness, peeling, and exfoliation of the skin around the piercing. Additionally, alcohol can cause an intense burning sensation and increase swelling.
Furthermore, alcohol can damage delicate genuine stones and organic materials used in jewellery, such as plugs and hangers. It can also dry on metal wearables, causing irritation when reinserted into the piercing.
Instead of relying on alcohol, it is recommended to trust your body's immune system to heal the piercing and maintain a healthy balance of moisture in the skin. For cleaning, mild antiseptic products or salt soaks can be used to care for the piercing and the surrounding skin without disrupting the healing process.
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What to use instead
While some sources recommend using alcohol to clean piercings, others advise against it, stating that it can slow down the healing process by drying and killing new healthy cells. Instead, here are some alternative methods and products that can be used to effectively clean your piercings:
Saltwater Soaks
One recommended method for cleaning piercings is to use saltwater soaks. Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt or 1 teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces of warm water. You can then use a cotton swab or Q-tip saturated with this solution to clean the pierced area. Allow the solution to soak for a few minutes before removing any dried material and rotating the jewellery. Alternatively, you can lean over a cup containing the saltwater solution, creating a suction seal between the cup and your belly button. Then, lie down on a towel and soak the area for at least 10 minutes before rinsing and drying thoroughly.
Antibacterial Soap
Using a mild, fragrance-free antibacterial soap and warm water is another effective way to clean your piercings. Apply the soap liberally with a cotton swab or Q-tip, or gently scrub the jewellery with a soft cloth or toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue, then dry the area or jewellery. This method is particularly suitable for jewellery made from surgical stainless steel, titanium, or niobium.
Antiseptic Products
For cleaning the skin around the piercing, you can use mild antiseptic products such as benzalkonium chloride or Bactine. Dilute these products 50/50 with water if they are too harsh, and apply them to the pierced area twice a day using a cotton swab or Q-tip.
Gold Jewellery
When cleaning gold jewellery, it is important to avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the surface. Instead, opt for a soft jewellery cleaning cloth or a mixture of mild antibacterial soap and hot water.
Acrylic and Bioplast Jewellery
When sterilizing acrylic or bioplast jewellery, extra care must be taken to prevent damage. Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol-based solutions, as they can cause discolouration or deterioration.
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How to clean the piercing
It is important to keep your piercing clean to avoid infection and tissue damage. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this effectively:
Firstly, always wash your hands before touching your piercing to avoid introducing bacteria to the area. It is also recommended to clean your piercing twice a day.
Next, you will need to prepare a salt solution to clean the piercing. Mix a quarter or a teaspoon of salt (sea salt or table salt) with 8 ounces of warm water. You can then dip a cotton swab or pad, or a Q-tip, into the solution and gently dab the piercing. Avoid wiping the piercing as this could damage the tissue while it is healing. You can also use a sterile saline spray (containing 0.9% sodium chloride and water without additives) and spray it directly onto your piercing.
After applying the salt solution or saline spray, use a clean towel or tissue to dry the piercing. You can also use a hairdryer on a low setting to dry the area.
When cleaning the skin around the piercing, use a mild antiseptic soap and water. Avoid using fragrant or perfumed soaps as these can irritate the piercing.
It is also important to keep your piercing dry and exposed to the air. Try not to sleep on your piercing, and avoid getting hair or clothing caught on it.
For nose piercings, it is recommended to rinse with mouthwash or a saline solution for at least 30-60 seconds after consuming anything other than water.
Remember to be patient during the healing process and avoid touching or fiddling with your piercing.
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How to care for the piercing
It is important to note that you should not use alcohol to clean new piercings. Alcohol can damage the sensitive tissue of a healing wound and induce or increase swelling. It can also cause an intense burning sensation and severe dryness to the skin. Instead, use a simple saline solution to clean your piercing at least once a day for at least eight weeks. This will help to prevent infection and scarring.
In general, ear piercings take six to eight weeks to heal, while other piercings, such as the nose, can take longer. Cartilage piercings, for example, can take up to three to six months to heal completely. It is important to be extremely gentle when cleaning a new piercing, and if you are using your fingers, make sure they are washed first.
To clean the piercing, you can either use a saline solution spray or soak the piercing in a saline solution for at least 10 minutes. Rinse with plain water and dry the area thoroughly after soaking. You can also use salt-soaked cotton swabs or Q-tips to clean the area.
Additionally, it is recommended to avoid direct pressure on the piercing, tight clothing, pillows, helmets, phones, and blowing your nose. Stay hydrated, get enough rest, and manage stress.
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How long to care for the piercing
It is important to note that you should not clean your piercing with alcohol, as it can slow the healing process by drying and killing new healthy cells. Instead, use salt soaks for the best care, cleaning, and loosening dry material on the skin.
Caring for a piercing is crucial to prevent infection, shrinking holes, and other issues. The duration of care depends on the piercing location and individual factors, such as overall health, sleep, and stress levels. Here is a detailed breakdown of the healing times for different types of piercings:
- Earlobe piercings typically take around 2-6 months to heal fully.
- Upper or inner ear piercings, including helix, conch, tragus, and rook, usually require 3-4 months for initial healing and up to 12 or more months to be fully healed.
- Belly button piercings take 6-12 months to heal.
- Nipple piercings and nose piercings have a similar healing time of 6-8 weeks.
During the healing process, it is essential to maintain a diligent aftercare routine. This includes keeping the piercing clean, rinsing thoroughly after washing, and avoiding submerging the piercing in water (except when cleaning). It is also recommended to avoid touching the piercing unless necessary and to sleep on the non-pierced side of the body.
Additionally, some discomfort, bleeding, swelling, and bruising are normal during the initial healing stage. However, if you notice any signs of infection, such as soreness, redness, or a yellowish discharge, seek the advice of a dermatologist.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you should not wash your piercing with alcohol. Alcohol can damage the sensitive tissue of a healing wound and cause severe dryness to the skin. It can also damage some delicate genuine stones or dry up on the wearables of other pieces and cause irritation once you reinsert them into your piercing.
You should clean your piercing with a simple saline solution. You can also use salt soaks for the best care/cleaning of a ring or stud and for loosening dry material on the skin.
You should clean a new piercing at least once a day for at least eight weeks.
You should always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your piercing. You should also avoid submerging your piercing in standing water, such as pools, baths, or oceans, during the healing process.
