Guide
Mild redness, clear-yellowish lymph and tenderness are usually irritation. Spreading redness, warmth, throbbing, smelly dark yellow-green discharge and fever are signs of infection; see a doctor.
ReadA light-coloured, yellowish dried crust and clear fluid (lymph) are a normal part of healing. Soften it with saline and wait for it to loosen on its own. Dark, smelly, greenish discharge is not normal.
ReadA piercing bump is usually the result of constant irritation: jewellery movement, pressure, a long bar, unsuitable material or incorrect aftercare. The solution is to find and remove the cause and return to simple aftercare.
ReadA piercing bump is caused by irritation and is temporary. A hypertrophic scar is a raised mark that stays within the wound boundary. A keloid is scar tissue that extends beyond the wound boundary, doesn't shrink on its own and requires a dermatologist.
ReadIf the jewellery has embedded in the tissue, don't try to remove it yourself. Go to your piercer or a doctor immediately without forcing the tissue; swelling and a bar that is too short are the most common causes.
ReadIf the body is pushing the jewellery out, the piercing moves towards the surface, the skin thins and the jewellery becomes visible. See your piercer when you notice the signs; waiting too long leaves a scar.
ReadFor a fresh piercing, implant-grade titanium (ASTM F136), niobium and solid nickel-free gold are the safest options. If there are signs of allergy, immediately replace the jewellery with a low-risk material.
ReadStop pulling and stay calm. Don't force the jewellery out; if there is bleeding, press with a clean cloth, and for a tear or deep injury go to an emergency health facility.
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