Overview
Getting a new nose piercing is an exciting time. Knowing how to properly care for it to avoid complications is a completely different matter. Nose piercings can be difficult to heal and are prone to developing bumps, also known as granulomas. Proper care and attention can help the piercing heal while minimizing these risks.
Importance
Anytime a piercing is performed, the human body views it as a trauma and immediately sets about to heal it. It is easy to irritate a new piercing, delaying the healing process. Failure to care for a nose piercing, or changing jewelry before the piercing has healed can cause infection, irritation and possible scar tissue formation.
Preparation
Prior to cleaning a piercing, it is important that your hands be thoroughly cleaned. Dry your hands on a disposable paper towel instead of a reusable towel which may harbor bacteria that could infect the piercing. If changing the jewelry becomes necessary, have the new jewelry autoclaved to ensure its sterility. Boiling jewelry or soaking in alcohol does not sterilize it.
Types
Aftercare instructions differ between professional piercers. Some advise against using soap directly on the piercing, while others promote the use of mild soaps such as Provon. Piercology.com recommends against the use of soaps such as Dial, since they are very harsh and can delay healing. Similarly, rubbing alcohol and peroxide may damage new cells forming inside the piercing.
To promote healing, nose piercings should be soaked in a sea salt solution at least once daily. Mixing ¼ tsp of sea salt in one cup of warm distilled water is perfect to soothe and clean a nose piercing. Soaking a nose piercing is awkward. Choose a cup or small bowl with a rounded rim and dip your pierced nostril into the cup. Soaking while lying down with a towel underneath your head may make it a more comfortable experience.
Time Frame
Nose piercings can take six months or longer to heal properly, though some heal more quickly. While a piercing is healing, cleaning it once a day is necessary to avoid infection, bumps and other complications. Avoid changing jewelry frequently during this time to prevent further irritation and bump formation.
Additional Consideration
Nose rings can be made out of a variety of metals, some of which are less compatible with healing than others. Cheap jewelry with high concentrations of nickel can delay healing. Implant grade stainless steel and titanium are better choices to prevent complications and promote healing.
