Piercing healing times: a spot-by-spot table
The earlobe takes about 6–8 weeks, the helix 3–6 months, inner cartilage spots 6–12 months, the nose 4–6 months, the septum 2–3 months and the navel 6–12 months. Times vary by person and…
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Piercing guide
Showers, pools, the sea and sport: what can you do with a piercing?
Showering is fine, but don't leave shampoo and soap residue on the piercing. Stay away from pools, jacuzzis, lakes and the sea throughout healing. When exercising, clean immediately after sweating and prevent knocks to the jewellery.
ReadHow to sleep with a piercing: tips for ears, nose and navel
Don't sleep on a new piercing; for ears, sleep with a travel (donut) pillow or a hole cut in your pillow, use a clean pillowcase and avoid positions that squeeze the jewellery while you sleep.
Read12 things not to do during piercing aftercare
The most common mistakes are twisting the jewellery, picking crusts, using alcohol, peroxide or ointments, touching with dirty hands, changing jewellery too early and not staying away from pools and the sea.
ReadSaline solution for piercings: what to look for and why to use it
Choose a sterile, additive-free 0.9% sodium chloride saline sold in a pressurised spray can. Contact lens solution, homemade salt water and products with additives are not recommended.
ReadHow to clean a new piercing: step-by-step aftercare
Wash your hands, rinse gently with sterile saline, pat dry with clean disposable paper and do not twist the jewellery. Over-cleaning slows healing; cleaning when needed is enough.
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