Piercing Aftercare + Preparation
It’s time for a piercing! To ensure you avoid infections and achieve the best results, it is important to follow our in-depth piercing aftercare and preparation guides. Below is our guide on everything you need to know before and after getting a new piercing. Let’s get you started!
How to Prepare for your Piercing (Piercing Precare)
To prepare for your piercing appointment, please ensure you follow the below guide.
- Ensure the area is free from infection or bacterial conditions.
- Drink plenty of water and ensure you’ve had a good meal prior to your arrival. This helps your body with the healing process.
- Avoid alcohol and illicit substances 24 hours prior to your appointment, as this will affect the ability to complete your service.
- Avoid waxing, shaving or laser hair removal for at least three days prior to your piercing.
- With body piercing appointments we recommend wearing comfortable loose clothes. This will help avoid your clothes rubbing against your new piercing.
How to Care for Your Piercing (Piercing Aftercare)
Ear Lobe Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
- Change pillowcase regularly.
2 – 6 weeks
- Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
- You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you are noticing any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 6 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Ear Cartilage Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
- Change pillowcase regularly.
- Avoid earplugs or headphones for the duration of healing.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you are noticing any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 12 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Nose Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Apply a breathable band-aid over the stud at night time to limit the amount of movement and prevent it getting caught in bedding.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
- Change your pillowcase regularly.
- Avoid makeup, facial cleansers and moisturisers around the area.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you notice any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 6 – 12 months for full healing, depending on the individual
Eyebrow Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Apply a breathable band-aid over the bar at night time to limit the amount of movement and prevent it getting caught in bedding.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
- Change pillowcase regularly.
- Avoid makeup, facial cleansers and moisturisers around the area.
- Be mindful of the pierced area if you are using glasses or caps.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you notice any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 3 – 6 months for full healing, depending on the individual
Lip Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water. Clean three times a day with oral safe aftercare.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
- Change pillowcase regularly.
- Avoid dairy, excessive sugar, spicy food, alcohol and cigarettes for the first two weeks.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you are noticing any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks. Downsizing is an important factor of the healing process to ensure permanent damage isn’t caused to the teeth and gums.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 3 – 6 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Other Oral Piercing (Tongue, Smiley, Dimples, Uvula & Webbing) Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water. Clean 3 times a day with oral safe aftercare.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid dairy, excessive sugar, spicy food, alcohol and cigarettes for the first two weeks.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you are noticing any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks. Downsizing is an important factor of the healing process to ensure permanent damage isn’t caused to the teeth and gums.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to three months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Naval Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
- Avoid tight clothing for the duration of healing.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you are noticing any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 6 – 12 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Septum Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
- Change pillowcase regularly.
- Avoid makeup, facial cleansers and moisturisers around the area.
- If you are required to have your piercing tucked or hidden, we recommend you keep it that way for the duration of the healing.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you are noticing any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 3 – 6 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Bridge Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
- Change pillowcase regularly.
- Avoid makeup, facial cleansers and moisturisers around the area.
- Be mindful of the pierced area if you are using glasses or caps.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you are noticing any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 3 – 6 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Nipple Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Apply a breathable band-aid over the bar at night time to limit the amount of movement and prevent it getting caught in bedding.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
6- 8 weeks
You can now change your jewellery to a slightly shorter length/style. Always use sterile jewellery and if you are noticing any lingering redness or sensitivities, hold back from changing for an additional two weeks.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 6 – 12 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Surface Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Consider using a hairdryer on the gentle setting to dry any excess moisture.
2 – 6 weeks
Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: Up to 6 – 12 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Change over time: Generally, do not require changing. Minimum 6-8 weeks to change the tops. Always use sterile jewellery and do not change your jewellery if the piercing appears to be not ready.
Dermal Piercing Aftercare
It can be normal to experience swelling, and sometimes bleeding or bruising for the first few days post-piercing.
0 – 2 Weeks
- Keep your piercing clean, dry and away from any materials that may pull or irritate the area.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and apply your aftercare solution twice daily.
- Do not remove jewellery.
- Avoid swimming, spas, saunas and excessive sweating.
- Rinse thoroughly after showering.
- Cover your piercing with a breathable bandaid during the day and night, changing once daily.
After the two weeks, cover your piercing only when sleeping or being active.
2 – 6 weeks
- Continue your twice-daily cleaning routine and ensure optimal sanitisation.
12 weeks
You can now change the head of your piercing, however please ensure the base is secure and there is no movement in the healing tissue.
What to expect: It is normal to expect some minor pain or sensation in the area for a few days. If you notice any swelling, redness or visible changes, please visit us and we’re happy to help.
Healing Time: 6 – 12 months for full healing, depending on the individual.
Piercing Aftercare FAQ's
Can I swim with a new piercing?
It’s recommended that you don’t go swimming in pools, lakes, rivers, oceans or hot tubs until your new piercing is healed. Swimming can increase the risk of infection to your new piercing.
How can I make my piercing heal faster?
Unfortunately, you’re unable to heal your piercing faster. By following our piercing aftercare guide and using the recommended piercing aftercare products you can aid in the healing of your new piercing.
How do I heal an infected piercing?
If your piercing becomes infected we recommend contacting your local studio or your GP. You may try the following, however medical attention is always recommended with any infection:
- Apply a warm compress to the affected area
- Rinse the infected area and then carefully pat dry
- Apply a small amount of antibiotic cream/ointment
- Seek medical advice
When can I change my piercing?
Every piercing is slightly different. Generally you can change your piercing jewellery after 6-12 weeks if no redness or swelling is still present. Please check the recommended aftercare guide for your piercing to understand when you can change your jewellery.
How to get rid of a piercing bump?
You may experience piercing bumps and/or light swelling after your initial piercing. To help reduce the swelling/bump:
- Clean the piercing using warm water and an antimicrobial soap, or use your recommended aftercare products. Make sure you completely pat the area dry after cleaning with a clean towel or disposable paper towel.
- Apply a warm compress to the area.
If you are experiencing severe discomfort, or you suspect the area is infected please seek medical advice.
How long does it take for a nose piercing to heal?
Generally, it takes around 6 – 12 months for your nose piercing to fully heal. A thorough piercing aftercare routine will give your new nose piercing the best chance of healing correctly.
How long does it take for an ear piercing to heal?
It can take up to 6 months for an ear lobe piercing to fully heal and up to 12 months for an ear cartilage piercing. It is important to follow the appropriate aftercare guides to give your piercing the best healing outcome.
How long do nipple piercings take to heal?
Depending on the individual it can take between 6 and 12 months for your nipple piercing to heal. Remember to follow our piercing aftercare guide to give your new piercing the best chance of healing.
How long does a belly piercing take to heal?
Your new belly piercing will generally take 6 – 12 months to heal fully. Following our piercing aftercare guide will help your new piercing heal correctly.
Can you shower after getting a new piercing?
Yes! You can shower like you normally would after your new piercing. It’s advised however that you do not go swimming for at least 2 weeks after your new piercing.
How long does it take for a septum piercing to heal?
A septum piercing traditionally takes between 3 and 6 months to heal. With a thorough piercing aftercare routine you’ll give your new piercing the best chance of healing.
