Body & Facial Piercing Aftercare Guide
Standard sterile saline care instructions for ear cartilage, nose, belly, and facial body piercings.
Step-by-Step Care Routine
Daily Cleaning Routine (2x Daily)
Spray sterile saline solution directly onto the entry and exit holes of the piercing. Allow it to sit for 1 minute to soften any crust. Gently wipe away softened debris using a clean non-woven gauze pad — never cotton balls, which can catch fibers on the jewelry.
Drying the Area
Moisture breeds bacteria. Gently pat the area completely dry using a disposable paper towel or set your hairdryer on the cool setting.
Weeks 4 to 6: Downsizing Check-In
Once initial swelling has resolved, return to the studio to have your piercer assess whether the jewelry should be downsized to a better-fitted length or diameter — this reduces snagging and irritation risk going forward.
What TO Do
- Spray with sterile saline twice daily.
- Keep the area dry after showering or cleaning.
- Return to the studio in 4–6 weeks for post-swelling barbell downsizing.
- Use a clean pillowcase and rotate sleeping position to avoid pressure on ear piercings.
What NOT To Do
- Do NOT rotate, twist, or slide the jewelry.
- Do NOT use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or Bactine.
- Do NOT sleep directly on a fresh ear piercing (use a travel pillow).
- Do NOT change the jewelry before the initial healing phase completes.
Recommended Care Products
Sterile 0.9% sodium chloride saline wound wash spray (NeilMed Fine Mist / H2Ocean), non-woven gauze pads, travel pillow (for ear piercings).
Warning Signs & Complications
Severe swelling that engulfs the decorative end, persistent dark red discoloration, localized heat, or green/thick yellow discharge requires immediate evaluation by our piercers.