Twisting, rotating, or playing with your jewelry can introduce bacteria, cause irritation, and delay healing. Let your body heal naturally without unnecessary movement.

Even if the piercing looks healed on the outside, the inner tissue takes longer. Premature removal can lead to closure, infection, or difficulty reinserting the jewelry. Always wait until it’s fully healed before changing jewelry, and consult your piercer if unsure.

Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, Bactine, antiseptic creams, or ointments. These can dry out and damage healing tissue, leading to prolonged healing times. Stick to sterile saline or iodine.

For body piercings, tight clothing can trap bacteria and cause friction, leading to irritation or infection. Stick to loose, breathable fabrics, and change clothing regularly.

Chemicals and oils from cosmetics, hairspray, dry shampoo, and skincare products can clog the piercing and introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.

Avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands, and be cautious of items like phones, earbuds, pillowcases, bedsheets, hats, glasses, and masks that can introduce bacteria.

Persistent redness, swelling, warmth, excessive discharge (yellow/green pus), or pain may indicate infection. Jewelry shifting, thinning skin, or a growing hole around the piercing could be signs of rejection. Seek professional advice if you notice these issues.