Got a new piercing? You probably have a set of instructions to follow to avoid infection and expedite the healing process. Piercings need careful care as the area is sensitive and prone to infections. Not just the area but the jewelry also needs to be taken care of and kept clean for easy movement. Here are some steps suggested by skin specialist Dr. Shefali Trasi Nerurkar to keep your piercings clean:
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- Clean your hands thoroughly every time you touch the piercing. Avoid touching the piercing except during cleaning to prevent irritation and bruising.
- Make a cleaning solution at home with 1 cup warm water and ¼ tsp of sea salt. Use pure sea salt that does not contain iodine. Stir well and make fresh solution every time you clean the piercing.
- Take a cotton swab and soak it completely in the saline solution. Apply this to the pierced area such that both the jewelry and area are soaked in the water properly.
- Allow it to soak for 3-4 minutes. This will help loosen any hard grime or build-up. Ensure that all edges of jewelry and the hole are properly moistened with the solution.
- Now wipe the area by gently patting on it with a cotton pad. Choose lint-free pads to avoid any strands of cotton from tangling in the piercing, causing infection and pain.
- Do not rub on the piercing as it can delay the healing process due to bruises and irritation. Follow this cleaning process not more than twice a day.
- You can take a shower and use a mild soap for cleaning the piercings. Be gentle and do not touch the piercing often. Wear clean and loose fitted clothes in case of body piercings.
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