Piercing Aftercare
Because every piercing deserves the same care as the jewel it carries.
Our expert piercers are here to guide you through every stage of your piercing journey. After your initial appointment, we invite you to book a complimentary Aftercare check-in within 2–8 weeks. This visit allows us to monitor your healing, ensure your jewellery is sitting comfortably, and advise whether it’s time to downsize your post.
Your Aftercare appointment is also an opportunity for us to share our Lifestyle and Nutrition guidance — practical habits like hydration, rest, and balanced nutrition that help your body heal efficiently and support the long-term health of your piercing.
Aftercare Instructions
Every piercing is a blend of beauty and healing. In the early weeks, your body works to repair the tiny wound while your jewellery settles into place. Gentle routines, clean habits, and patience are key. With the right care, your piercing will remain comfortable, healthy, and a lasting part of your style.
General Piercings
Your piercing is both a wound and a jewel — treat it with gentleness.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and rinse before touching your piercing.
- Clean twice a day with the saline solution provided by your reputable piercer for the first 4 weeks, then once daily for the rest of the healing period.
- Gently remove loose crusting with a clean, absorbent tissue and dab dry.
- Always clean after exercise.
Oral Piercings
A fresh oral piercing heals best with balance and consistency.
- Rinse with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash three times daily and after consuming dairy.
- Stay hydrated to keep the piercing irrigated.
- Avoid activities involving the transmission of bodily fluids.
- Swelling is normal — it can be reduced with an over-the-counter oral anti-inflammatory.
Pseudo-Oral Piercings
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap, then rinse before touching your piercing.
- Clean with the sterile saline solution provided by your piercer: twice daily for the first 4 weeks, then once daily for the rest of the healing period.
- Gently remove any loose crusting with a clean absorbent tissue and dab the area dry.
- Always clean after exercise.
- Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash three times a day and after consuming dairy products.
- Stay hydrated to keep the piercing irrigated.
- Abstain from any activities that involve the transmission of bodily fluids.
- Swelling is normal and can be reduced with an over-the-counter oral anti-inflammatory.
Nipple Piercings
Available only to those 18+ of age.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and rinse before touching your piercing.
- Clean twice a day with the saline solution provided by your reputable piercer for the first 4 weeks, then once daily for the rest of the healing period.
- Gently remove loose crusting with a clean, absorbent tissue and dab dry.
- Always clean after exercise.
- A clean cotton sports bra or loose shirt helps minimise friction and agitation.
Navel Piercings
Available only to those 15+ of age with parent/guardian present.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and rinse before touching your piercing.
- Clean twice a day with the saline solution provided by your reputable piercer for the first 4 weeks, then once daily for the rest of the healing period.
- Gently remove loose crusting with a clean, absorbent tissue and dab dry.
- Always clean after exercise.
- To prevent damage from clothing, you may use a hard eye patch over the area if wearing high-waisted garments.
Genital Piercings
Available only to those 18+ of age.
- Wash once daily with a gynaecological soap.
- Stay hydrated and urinate frequently to keep the area flushed and clean.
Downsizing Your Piercing
Every piercing begins with extra length in the post to allow for swelling. Downsizing is the most important step for long-term comfort and health.
- Freshly Pierced: The post is longer to accommodate swelling.
- After Sleeping On It: Pressure may change the angle of your piercing if it hasn’t been downsized.
- Once Downsized: The jewellery sits snug against your skin — secure, sleek, and healthier for long-term healing.
Downsizing usually happens 2 weeks to 3 months after piercing, depending on the area.
Lifestyle & Nutrition
Healing a piercing is not just about what you do on the outside, but also how you treat your body from within. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports tissue repair, while staying hydrated keeps your skin supple and resilient. Focus on whole foods with plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, and lean protein to fuel your healing. Reducing alcohol, sugar, and smoking during the initial weeks can make a noticeable difference in recovery time, as these stress the immune system and slow healing. Prioritise rest and stress management too — your body repairs most effectively when well-rested. Think of it as a small act of self-care: nourishing yourself, staying hydrated, and letting your immune system work with your new jewel to create a strong, healthy piercing.
Book with our Expert Piercers
Book your appointment at any one of our Black Betty piercing studios and begin your journey with expert care.