10 Things NOT to Do After Getting a Piercing (Unless You Love Regret)
Getting a new piercing is exciting. Can be a little rebellious, a little empowering, and a lot of sparkle. But, once that needle’s done its job, it’s not all glam selfies and compliments. The aftercare phase is where the real magic (or chaos) happens. Ignoring your piercing aftercare instructions isn’t just a rookie move. It’s a fast-track ticket to infection city, pain town, and possibly a trip back to the piercer for damage control.
At Area 51 in Basingstoke, we’ve seen it all — and we mean all. So, to save your skin (and your pride), here are 10 things not to do after getting a piercing.
1. Touching It with Dirty Hands
Ah yes, the classic. You’d be shocked how many people poke and prod their new piercing without washing their hands first. That cute little cartilage piercing? It doesn’t want your sandwich fingers all over it.
Why it matters: Germs = infections. Your body’s trying to heal — don’t sabotage it.
Pro Tip: Treat your piercing like it’s an open wound shock horror – it is). Only clean, saline-soaked cotton rounds or sterile spray bottles may approach.2. Over-Cleansing (aka Trying Too Hard)
Look, we love enthusiasm. But scrubbing your piercing with alcohol, peroxide or three different kinds of soap is like setting fire to your new house to keep it warm.
What to do instead: Use saline solution once a day unless instructed otherwise. Leave it alone the rest of the time.
Too much cleaning dries the skin causing delays to healing, and can lead to irritation. Less is more, darling.
3. Twisting the Jewellery “To Stop It Sticking”
This myth has survived longer than it should. Rotating your piercing is not only unnecessary — it’s damaging.
Here’s why:
- It breaks up the healing tissue inside the piercing channel.
- Introduces bacteria.
- Feels horrible (yes, that burning sensation isn’t normal).
- Let it be. Let it heal. It’s not a fidget spinner.
4. Sleeping on It
Side sleepers, this one’s going to hurt (literally).
What happens: Sleeping on a new piercing creates pressure. That pressure causes swelling, displacement or rejection.
Try this: Invest in a travel neck pillow or sleep on the opposite side. Your future healed self will thank you.
5. Using Random Jewellery from the Internet
We get it. That skull-shaped barbell looked so cool. But if it’s not implant-grade titanium or at least surgical steel, you’re gambling with your face.
Risks include:
- Allergic reactions.
- Piercing migration.
- Prolonged healing times.
Stick with high-quality, hypoallergenic jewellery. We can help you pick it — and yes, we have cool and sparkly options too.
6. Swimming Too Soon
Whether it’s a hot tub, the sea, or your best mate’s slightly green paddling pool — after getting a piercing, just no, don’t.
Why?
- Chlorine and saltwater can irritate fresh piercings.
- Lakes and pools are germ soup.
- Wait at least 4–6 weeks, or until your piercer gives you the go-ahead.
7. Covering It with Makeup or Skincare
You wouldn’t smear foundation on a paper cut, would you? Then please don’t slather it on your healing nostril.
Risks:
- Clogged tissue.
- Irritation.
- Extended healing time.
Solution: Keep the area clean and dry — and maybe embrace a ‘natural’ look for a few weeks. Your pores will cope.
8. Ignoring Signs of Infection
Redness, swelling, heat and ooze? That’s your body waving a big, red “HELP ME” flag. After getting a piercing it’s crucial to listen to your body.
Don’t:
- Hope it’ll sort itself out.
- Ask TikTok for a diagnoses.
Do:
- Contact your piercer (hi, that’s us!) or a medical professional.
9. Changing the Jewellery Too Soon
We know the excitement is real, but switching out jewellery before full healing is like yanking a cake from the oven at 300°C.
What can go wrong:
- Reopening the piercing.
- Introducing bacteria.
- Jewellery not fitting properly.
10. Listening to Your Mate Over Your Piercer
“I just twisted mine loads and it healed fine!” — said no professional piercer ever.
Your friend might mean well, but unless they’ve got 30 years’ experience, a sterilisation logbook and a licence on the wall, maybe don’t follow their advice.
Trust us instead. We’re cheeky, but we’re clinical.
FAQs: Quickfire Answers from the Studio
Can I go to the gym after a piercing? Avoid sweat-heavy activities for the first few days. Clean the area after workouts.
How long until I can change jewellery? Depends on the piercing — anything from 6 weeks to 6 months. Ask us.
Is crust normal? Yes! It’s dried lymphatic fluid, not infection. Leave it unless advised otherwise.
Final Thoughts: Heal Like a Legend
The aftercare process is the unsung hero of a stunning, problem-free piercing. Follow the golden rules, and your piercing will reward you with smooth healing, no drama, and a lifelong sparkle.
If you’re ever unsure, ask us. At Area 51, we don’t just stab you with style — we help you heal with science. Duncan’s always got a story (and sterile gloves).