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I know getting a new piercing is very exciting. Body piercing is a form of self-expression and a way to display your personality and style. But taking care of piercing jewellery is very important as the safety of jewellery will keep the dirt, bacteria, contamination and infection away, and the jewellery will look stylish like new. If it is a nose stud, belly button ring, earring, or any other piercing jewellery, cleaning and maintaining it is very crucial.
Different Piercing Materials
Understanding the different jewellery for piercing is essential, as different materials create a wide range of designs and styles. It’s good to know about the jewellery if you have metal allergies.
Here Is The List Of Materials –
Surgical Stainless Steel
It’s mostly used in piercing for durability and scratch resistance. It is available easily and hypoallergenic, making it a popular choice for piercers. The only minus point is that it may contain nickel.
Titanium
Titanium is the best option if you are allergic to metals. The other advantages are that it is lightweight, durable and hypoallergenic. It is available easily and is a strong metal.
Niobium
Niobium is like titanium: lightweight, durable, hypoallergenic and strong. It’s good for people who are metal allergic and is also available in vibrant colours. It is also considered an affordable option.
Gold
Gold jewellery adds luxury and glamour to the piercing. Rose gold, white and yellow are the colour options available, and 14k and 18k are the most popular options for piercing. Anything less than 14k should not be used for piercing, as it may have nickel or copper that may lead to irritation. Gold above 18k is more prone to scratches.
Biocompatible Polymers (plastic)
Medical-grade plastic is a better choice for new and temporary piercings. It’s available in a variety of colours, flexible and lightweight. Its hypoallergenic nature decreases the chances of infection.
Preparation For Cleaning The Piercing Jewellery
The preparation is as essential as cleaning. It’s important to take a few safety measures for proper cleaning.
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Here are the steps
1. Wash your hands properly: Wash with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Clean between your fingers, thumbs, under the fingernails and the wrist, all well. It’s all so that you don’t transfer bacteria or dirt to the jewellery.
2. Look for a clean place: The place you pick for cleaning jewellery should be free from dirt, dust or anything that can contaminate the jewellery.
3. Remove the jewellery from your piercing site: It lets you clean it properly without leaving any cleaning particles in the jewellery. I’d suggest not removing your jewellery if the piercing is not healed completely.
How To Sterilize Your Piercing Jewelry
Different types of jewellery require different types of cleaning methods to preserve jewellery and also keep you away from infections and irritations.
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Gold Jewelry
Gold jewellery just requires a soft jewellery cleaning cloth or hot water with antibacterial soap. Avoid using harsh and rough products that may scratch the surface and destroy the lustre of your jewellery.
Niobium, titanium, and surgical stainless steel
Warm water with gentle antibacterial soap is generally what is needed to clean the jewellery mentioned above. Take a clean, soft cloth, or you can even use a soft brush to clean the jewellery.
Biocompatible Polymers (plastic)
Cleaning this jewellery with a damp and soft cloth is enough. Alcohol-based solutions and chemicals should be avoided as they may harm the piercing’s colour and nature.
There are other options also, like ultrasonic cleaners or autoclave machines. Those are professional options. But you can clean your jewellery with the methods mentioned above because they’re effective for regular cleaning.
Useful Tips For Piercing Jewellery Care
Regular Cleaning
The piercing jewellery should be cleaned at least every fifteen days, and if you are wearing it on a daily basis, it should be cleaned once every ten days. Cleaning is crucial as it keeps you and your jewellery away from dust and dirt.
Proper Storage is Important
The piercing jewellery should be stored properly away from sunlight and dust. Proper storage ensures that your jewellery won’t get lost and is away from scratches. A soft fabric pouch or jewellery box can be the best option.
Insurance
If your jewellery is costly, it’s better to get it insured. Insurance keeps you assured, as you are not worried about loss or damage caused by regular wear.
Keeping your piercing jewellery clean doesn’t have to be complicated; just regular care and a little attention go a long way. If you’ve got a favourite trick I missed, let me know!
