Showering
Showering is not a problem; hot water and steam soften crusts. Don't apply shampoo, conditioner or soap to the piercing, and rinse thoroughly at the end. After showering, pat dry with a clean paper towel.
Pools, jacuzzis, lakes and the sea
Chlorinated pool water irritates; in the sea and lakes there is a risk of bacteria and microorganisms. The APP and professional piercers recommend staying away from these environments during healing. If you have a holiday planned, consider getting your piercing before or after the trip.
Sport
Sweat is a source of irritation for a fresh piercing. Shower and clean the piercing immediately after training. Be careful in contact sports to avoid knocks to the jewellery; with a belly piercing, reduce pressure during abdominal exercises.
Sun and creams
Don't let sun oil or perfume touch the piercing. Leave the area around the piercing clear when applying sunscreen.
Summary list
- Shower: yes, gently.
- Pool, sea, jacuzzi: no, throughout healing.
- Sport: yes, cleaning afterwards is essential.
- Cosmetic products: keep them off the piercing.
Pools and the sea
Pool water contains chlorine, and sea water contains bacteria and microorganisms. Because a new piercing is still an open wound, it is recommended to stay away from pools and the sea, and even lakes and jacuzzis, in the first weeks. If healing has clearly progressed and it is really necessary, consult your piercer about using a waterproof barrier; however, this method is not risk-free either.
After going in the water, it is a good habit to rinse the area with sterile saline and pat dry with a clean paper towel.
When exercising
Sport is not forbidden with a piercing in itself; what matters is pressure, knocks and sweat. In contact sports, ear and nose piercings carry a risk of injury. Because sweat contains salt, it can cause irritation; showering and rinsing the area after training is enough. With a belly piercing, abdominal exercises and tight sportswear create pressure.
- Shower as soon as possible after training.
- Don't touch your piercing with hands that have touched gym equipment (mats, handles).
- If you wear a helmet or cap, check the pressure.
Quick notes on showering
Showering is safe and softens crusts. Rather than holding hot water directly under pressure, soften the flow; rinse off shampoo residue thoroughly.
Saunas, hammams and jacuzzis
Hot, humid environments are favourable for bacteria, and a new piercing is an open wound. It is safe to stay away from saunas, hammams, jacuzzis and steamy environments in the first weeks. Likewise, prolonged contact with dishwater, dirty towels and damp clothes increases the risk of irritation. It is possible to return to these environments as you heal, but it is still wise to wait while the piercing is in its sensitive period.
If you have to go in the pool or sea
If you have to go in the water for a holiday or work, temporarily protect the piercing with a waterproof plaster. This option is especially for short, unavoidable situations and should not be used continuously. As soon as you get out of the water, remove the plaster, rinse the piercing with plenty of saline and dry it completely. Because sea water, pool water and lake water can contain bacteria, it is safer not to put the piercing directly in water until healing is complete.
Common mistakes
- Not drying after showering
- Going in the pool before healing
- Staying sweaty for a long time
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your piercer or doctor about your personal situation.
Official and reliable sources
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FAQ
What if I have to go in the sea while healing?
Postpone it if possible. If you have to, clean before and after going in the water; however, the risk does not go away completely.
Are saunas and hammams OK?
Heavy sweat and steam can cause irritation. It is safer to postpone them throughout healing.
How should I use equipment at the gym?
Use a clean towel and prevent the equipment from touching the pierced area.
This content is for general information only and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.