How to Care for a New Piercing

How to Care for a New Piercing

Getting a new piercing is exciting, but the way you care for it afterward is what ensures it heals cleanly and looks great long-term. At Copperhead Tattoos & Piercings in Austin, our certified piercers follow strict health standards and provide clear aftercare instructions so your piercing heals safely, comfortably, and beautifully.

The Piercing Aftercare Process

Proper piercing care starts the moment you leave the studio. Here’s what our professionals recommend for a smooth and healthy healing process:

• Clean with saline solution using a Q-tip once a day or every other day. This helps remove discharge and debris without irritating the skin.

• Avoid over-cleaning. Once or twice a day is plenty.

• Never use soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or Bactine, as these products can dry out or damage the piercing.

• Do not twist, turn, or touch your jewelry unnecessarily; this can delay healing or introduce bacteria.

• Downsizing your jewelry is an important step once the swelling goes down, usually after 1–8 weeks, depending on the piercing.

• Avoid sleeping on your new piercing, as pressure can lead to irritation or bumps.

Things to Look Out For

A little redness, swelling, and tenderness are normal for the first few weeks. That’s part of the healing process. However, there are certain signs you should monitor:

• Persistent pain or swelling that doesn’t improve after a few days

• Thick yellow or green discharge with an odor

• Red streaks or warmth spreading from the area

• Jewelry embedding into the skin or becoming overly tight

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your piercer or a healthcare professional. At Copperhead, our Austin piercers are always available to answer questions or take a look if you’re unsure.

Things to Avoid During Piercing Healing

Healing times can range from 6 months to a year or longer, depending on the piercing and your individual anatomy. To keep your piercing clean and irritation-free:

• Don’t submerge in pools, lakes, or hot tubs until your piercing is fully healed.

• Avoid using harsh cleaners, ointments, or creams not recommended by your piercer.

• Keep hair, headphones, and tight clothing away from the area.

• Avoid sleeping on or bumping your new piercing.

• Don’t remove or change jewelry too soon. Always wait for professional advice.

Final Tips from Our Top Austin Piercers

The best way to ensure your piercing heals perfectly is to keep it clean, leave it alone, and stay patient. Healing takes time, but following these steps will help you avoid complications and enjoy your new look for years to come.

If you ever have questions or need help checking your healing progress, stop by Copperhead Tattoos & Piercings in Austin, TX. Our experienced piercers are here every day for walk-ins and appointments, ready to guide you through every step of the piercing process.

Walk-Ins Are Always Welcome!

Come see us at Copperhead for your next tattoo or piercing.