By Anya Petrova, European Piercing Expert
A pierced belly button is a stylish and trendy accessory, but it’s important to keep it clean to prevent infection.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean a pierced belly button properly.
Materials You’ll Need
- Saline solution or piercing cleaner
- Cotton swabs or Q-tips
- Warm compress (optional)
- Cold compress (optional)
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your piercing. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria.
Step 2: Soak the Piercing
Soak the piercing in a saline solution or piercing cleaner for 5-10 minutes. This will help loosen any crust or debris.
Step 3: Clean the Piercing
Use a cotton swab or Q-tip dipped in saline solution or piercing cleaner to gently clean the piercing. Be sure to clean both the front and back of the piercing.
Step 4: Rinse the Piercing
Rinse the piercing thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining saline solution or piercing cleaner.
Step 5: Dry the Piercing
Pat the piercing dry with a clean paper towel or gauze. Do not use a towel that has been used on other parts of your body, as this could transfer bacteria to the piercing.
Step 6: Apply a Warm Compress (Optional)
Applying a warm compress to the piercing can help reduce swelling and pain. Soak a washcloth in warm water and apply it to the piercing for 10-15 minutes.
Step 7: Apply a Cold Compress (Optional)
Applying a cold compress to the piercing can help reduce swelling and pain. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to the piercing for 10-15 minutes.
Step 8: Repeat Daily
Repeat this cleaning process once or twice a day until the piercing is fully healed.
Tips
- Do not use harsh soaps or detergents to clean your piercing.
- Do not use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean your piercing.
- Do not remove the piercing jewelry until it is fully healed.
- If you experience any pain, swelling, or discharge from the piercing, see a doctor immediately.
Summary
Cleaning a pierced belly button is a simple and straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your piercing clean and healthy.
Common Questions and Answers
- How often should I clean my pierced belly button? Once or twice a day until the piercing is fully healed.
- What should I use to clean my pierced belly button? Saline solution or piercing cleaner.
- Can I use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean my pierced belly button? No, these products can damage the piercing.
- What should I do if my pierced belly button is infected? See a doctor immediately.