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Piercing Aftercare

Piercing Aftercare Guide

Proper aftercare is essential for a healthy healing process and to prevent infections or complications. Please follow these instructions carefully and reach out to Seven Ink Tattoos LLC at 832-863-6302 if you have any concerns.

General Piercing Aftercare

Clean Twice Daily

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your piercing.

  • Use a sterile saline wound wash (available for purchase at the Seven Ink Tattoo Shop).

  • Gently cleanse around the piercing with a clean cotton pad or gauze. Do not rotate or twist the jewelry.

Avoid Touching & Twisting

  • Do not touch your piercing unless cleaning it.

  • Avoid rotating or playing with your jewelry, as this can cause irritation and prolong healing.

Keep it Dry & Avoid Submersion

  • Avoid pools, hot tubs, lakes, and bathtubs while your piercing is healing. Showers are fine, but do not let shampoo, soap, or other products sit on the piercing.

Be Careful with Clothing & Pressure

  • Avoid tight clothing or anything that may snag on the piercing.

  • Be mindful of sleeping positions to avoid putting pressure on fresh piercings.

No Harsh Products

  • Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, ointments, or antibacterial creams, as these can irritate and slow healing.

Healthy Healing

  • Stay hydrated, maintain a healthy diet, and avoid smoking or excessive alcohol, as these can slow healing.

Additional Aftercare for Specific Piercings

Oral Piercings (Lip, Tongue, Cheek, Smiley, etc.)

  • Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash after eating, drinking (anything besides water), or smoking.

  • Avoid spicy, acidic, and dairy-heavy foods for the first few weeks.

  • Drink cold water to reduce swelling.

  • Avoid kissing, oral contact, or sharing drinks while healing.

Ear & Cartilage Piercings (Lobe, Helix, Conch, Tragus, etc.)

  • Be cautious with hair, hats, headphones, and pillows to prevent snagging.

  • Try to sleep on the opposite side to avoid pressure.

Navel (Belly Button) Piercings

  • Wear loose clothing and avoid high-waisted pants that may rub against the piercing.

  • Be careful when sitting, bending, or doing activities that involve waist movement.

Nipple Piercings

  • Wear a breathable, snug-fitting shirt or bra for extra support during the healing process.

  • Avoid direct friction and excessive movement, especially during workouts.

Surface & Dermal Piercings

  • Avoid direct pressure or movement in the area, as these piercings are more prone to rejection.

  • Use clean, non-stick bandages if needed for protection during sleep or physical activity.

Genital Piercings

  • Avoid sexual activity until healing is well underway. When resuming, use protection and be mindful of irritation.

  • Maintain excellent hygiene and rinse the area gently with saline after urination.

Signs of a Problem – When to Seek Help

Possible Infection: Redness, excessive swelling, pain, pus, warmth, or a foul odor.
Irritation: Persistent itching, redness, or bumps around the piercing.
Jewelry Rejection: The piercing appears to be migrating or thinning.

If you experience any severe pain, fever, or unusual symptoms, contact Seven Ink Tattoos LLC at 832-863-6302 or a healthcare provider immediately.

Healing Times (Approximate)

  • Ear Lobe: 6-8 weeks

  • Cartilage: 4-12 months

  • Nostril: 4-6 months

  • Septum: 2-3 months

  • Eyebrow: 6-8 weeks

  • Lip & Labret: 6-8 weeks

  • Tongue: 4-6 weeks

  • Navel: 6-12 months

  • Nipple: 6-12 months

  • Surface & Dermal: Varies (may not be permanent)

  • Genital Piercings: 4 weeks – 6 months (varies by location)

Healing times can vary based on your body and how well you follow aftercare instructions.