The aftercare described will work for most people, most of the time.
Healing times may vary from person to person and depending on the piercing.
If you are having problems, please call or stop in.
We are NOT medical professionals, but we can give suggestions on how to properly care for your piercing.


BODY PIERCING SUGGESTIONS
*Always wash your hands before you touch your piercing. This is a great way to prevent infection even after your piercing has healed.
*1-2 times a day wash the skin in the surrounding area with a mild soap and water.
The brand of soap doesn't matter but it's best to avoid anti-bacterial soaps containing triclosan and any heavily perfumed soap or body wash.
Do not work the soap into the piercing. It is possible to leave a soapy residue behind and cause irritation.
Your saline soak will take care of the inside. Rotating the jewelry can cause damage to the delicate,
healing tissue and it's best to just do saline soaks and leave it alone.
*Mix your salt water(1/4 tsp. sea salt in 8 oz. warm, distilled water) and then use a disposable plastic cup or clean shot glass to
hold the water against the piercing site or dip the piercing into the water.
When the cup submersion isn't possible, another alternative is to saturate clean gauze with the salt water and microwave for 3-5 seconds.
(time may vary according to the microwave so test the temperature against the inside of your wrist) and use it like a warm compress on the piercing site.
 
*DO NOT use alcohol, peroxide, Bactine, Betadine, Hibiclense, or any ointments on your piercing, These substances can hinder and prolong the healing process.

ORAL PIERCING SUGGESTIONS
*Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash, such as Biotene or Tech 2000 after each meal for 30-60 seconds during the initial healing period (3-6 weeks) If those brands are not available, dilute 4 oz. of an oral antiseptic with 4 oz. water. This will dilute the antiseptic and prevent it from irritating your piercing.
Only use the oral rinse 2-3 times a day.
*Overuse of any antiseptic rinse can and may upset the healthy balance in the mouth and cause thrush (yeast infection).
*In addition to the antiseptic rinse after meals, sea salt soaks will help your piercing heal.
Fill a fresh disposable cup with 8 oz. of water and add 1/4 tsp. salt, stirring until it is dissolved. Then rinse your mouth for approx. 15 seconds.
Sea salt soaks should be performed after smoking, eating or drinking anything other than water.
*Note: Some piercers and piercees have had much success using only saline rinses*
*The swelling tends to last 3-5 days but can last up to 2 weeks for some people. Ice water or other cold liquids will help control the swelling.
You may also take Aleve or ibuprofen according to the directions on the package to help relieve swelling and pain.
*Try to eat small portions and chew slowly while you have swelling. Also avoid spicy foods and hot temperatures because they may add to the swelling.
*Alcoholic beverages can add to the swelling and you may want to avoid over-indulgence during the first few days to prevent damage to the  piercing.

*Good oral hygiene is important for a healthy piercing. Brush your teeth 3 times a day while your piercing is healing to cut down on the amount of bacteria and food particles in your mouth. You should also brush your jewelry daily to prevent plaque build-up.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
*Remember: A piercing is a wound. Consequently, you should expect tenderness, swelling, discoloration, and possibly bruising, bleeding, and itchiness.
Also, a natural part of the healing process includes a secretion of a yellow-white fluid (containing skin cells and plasma).
This fluid will dry and form a crust on the jewelry. A saline soak will gently remove the crust. DO NOT pick at the piercing.
*Signs of infection are, but not limited to:
redness, extreme discomfort, warm to the touch, and a thick, off color (dark yellowish or greenish) discharge.
If you think your piercing is infected PLEASE see your physician for antibiotics.
It's best not to remove the jewelry until after you are finished with the medication.
You DO NOT have to remove the jewelry after you finish the medication.
Sometimes other problems may show the same symptoms as an infection. Feel free to stop in anytime to discuss a troublesome piercing.

*Many things can be irritating to a new piercing. Even your own sweat.
When in doubt, do saline soaks more often. You cannot overdo it with too many saline soaks.
If you are still having problems, come and see me for other suggestions.
*Try to refrain from moving or rotating your jewelry during the healing process.
Even after your piercing has healed, excessive movement and friction can cause complications.
*DO NOT expose your fresh piercing to oral contact or other body fluids throughout the healing of your piercing.
Use a condom (genital) even if you are in a monogamous relationship.
In case of accidental exposure, wash immediately with soap and water or rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash (oral).
*It is a good idea to check the accessories (balls, beads, etc.) of your jewelry  for tightness daily.
*Drinking  plenty of water, and living a healthy lifestyle will optimize the healing of  your new piercing.

APPROXIMATE HEALING TIMES
Cartilage: 2 to 12 months
Earlobe: 6 to 8 weeks
Eyebrow: 6 to 8 weeks
Genitals: 4 weeks to 6 months
Labret: 6 to 8 weeks
Lip: 6 to 8 weeks
Navel: 6 to 12+ months
Nipple: 2 to 6 months
Nostril: 2 to 12 months
Septum: 6 to 8 weeks
Tongue: 4 to 6 weeks

***You can buy Biotene at Walmart, Target, Giant Eagle or most major pharmacies and you can buy Tech 2000 here at our studio.
***You can buy sea salt at most grocery or health food stores.
***Sea salt can be substituted with non-iodized organic salt or canning salt, but never substitute with Epsom salts.