Everyone with a killer piercing fears that it will close down. It happens for many reasons, and we all regret the effort and money that is wasted on it.
So what to do when you get a new shiny piercing jewellery piece and want to protect it?
We have some tips you can follow to enjoy a safe piercing experience.
Signs Your Piercing Is Closing Up
Piercing does not instantly close up. There are signs and symptoms which indicate your hole might go down. Here are some drastic signs you should be looking for.
Tight or painful sensation
When piercings are closing up, they get tight around the area, and you feel pain. It might seem like your jewellery is being squeezed, and it could be uncomfortable when you try to move it. This means the skin is starting to close around the hole.
Difficulty in inserting jewellery
If you find it harder than usual to insert your jewellery, that’s a red flag. The hole of the piercing might shrink down, which makes the jewellery insertion tough and hurtful. Sometimes, the jewellery might get stuck halfway, which can be frustrating.
Redness and swelling
A bit of redness and swelling is normal after getting a new piercing, but if you notice these symptoms after having the piercing for a while, it could mean the hole is closing. Your body might be reacting to the jewellery being removed for too long.
Crust formation
Notice a crusty build-up around the piercing hole? While some crusting is normal during the healing process, excessive crust can be a sign that your piercing is closing up. This crust is made up of dead skin cells and lymph fluid trying to close the wound.
Changes in piercing hole appearance
The hole might appear smaller than usual, or it might look like it’s disappearing altogether. This visual change is a clear indicator that your piercing is starting to close up.
How to Prevent Your Piercing from Closing Up
Now let’s face it, we all are worried about this and look for easy remedies. Here are some tips you should make a routine for good piercing health.
Keep it in
The best way to prevent your piercing from closing up is to keep your jewellery in as much as possible, especially during the healing process. Taking it out too soon can cause the hole to close rapidly, sometimes within hours.
Avoid sleeping without jewellery
If you have a habit of taking your jewellery out before bed, stop it! Sleeping without your jewellery can cause the piercing to close overnight. Use comfortable jewellery that’s safe to sleep in to avoid this.
Use hypoallergenic jewellery
Opt for hypoallergenic materials like titanium, niobium, or surgical steel. These materials are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, which can contribute to a piercing closing up.
Give it time to heal
If you just got a new piercing, be patient. Healing takes time, and everyone’s body is different. Follow your piercer’s aftercare instructions carefully and resist the urge to change jewellery too soon.
Reopening a Closed Piercing
If the piercing is only partially closed, a little lubrication can help. Use a water-based lubricant or some petroleum jelly to make it easier to insert your jewellery. Gently twist the jewellery as you push it through.
A warm compress can help soften the skin and make it easier to reopen the piercing. Soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and hold it against the piercing site for a few minutes before attempting to insert your jewellery.
If the jewellery doesn’t go through easily, don’t force it. Forcing can cause damage and increase the risk of infection. If it’s not going in, it’s time to see a professional.
How Quickly Can a Piercing Close-Up?
Piercing closure times vary. A new piercing can start closing within hours if the jewellery is removed. Older, more established piercings can take longer, but it’s still possible for them to close up within a few days to weeks.
Can You Repierce the Same Spot?
Yes, you can usually repierce the same spot, but it’s best to wait until the area has fully healed. Your piercer will assess the tissue to make sure it’s safe to pierce again.
How Long Should I Wait Before Changing Jewellery?
It’s typically recommended to wait until the piercing has fully healed before changing jewellery. Healing times vary: earlobes might take 6-8 weeks, while cartilage can take several months. Follow your piercer’s advice for the best results.