Santimel

While a shimmering stud can accentuate a bikini-clad beauty’s navel this summer, there’s nothing beautifying about an infected piercing. To avoid infections which can lead to a swollen, pus-discharging, or even bad-smelling piercing, follow proper aftercare for healing.

The most common mistake made by the newly pierced is being impatient. A navel piercing, for example, takes six months to a year to heal completely–even longer if the wearer does not take proper care during the healing process. During this time, the piercing should be exposed to as few foreign substances as possible. This means that summer beach goers shouldn’t immerse their piercing in the ocean or subject the healing wound to lotions and creams by sunbathing.

Nor should the jewelry be changed before the piercing is completely healed, and the original jewelry should not be moved or twisted unnecessarily. And excessive touching of the area, especially with unwashed hands, can lead to infection or prolong the healing period.

Professional piercing artists provide their clients with an aftercare sheet which prescribes the recommended frequency of cleaning, and other information on proper healing, and avoiding infection. If a piercing does seem to be irritated more than expected, or infected, consult with your piercer and doctor.