6 important steps to treat an inflamed piercing

Inflamed piercing can occur when there is some change in the healing process. It typically causes pain, swelling, redness, and a buildup of discharge may occur. To talk more about it, dermatologist Dr Silvana Coghi (CRM 83078), from Hospital São Camilo, answered the main doubts, guided how to identify inflammation and how to treat it.

How to know if the piercing has inflamed?

According to the dermatologist, “the inflamed piercing shows some signs, such as redness (erythema), swelling (edema) and pain at the site of the skin or mucosa that was implanted.”

What to do when the piercing ignites

When identifying the inflamed piercing, it is important to take some steps as mentioned below:

• Clean the area: the dermatologist mentioned the importance of keeping the perforated area clean. Then, the professional indicated to wash the place well with water and soap to avoid the accumulation of secretion.
• Dry well: another important care is to prevent the region from getting wet, so Dr. Silvana advised to “dry well, in addition to using a towel or gauze, use a hair dryer, preventing the place from getting damp.”
• Use cream or ointment: The use of creams or ointments may be indicated to contain inflammation caused by bacterial infections. “You can use antibiotic cream or ointment at the site, preferably combined with corticosteroids, for 2 to 3 days,” he said.
• Use of oral medications: Depending on the degree of inflammation or infection, it may be necessary to administer anti-inflammatory drugs or oral antibiotics to relieve pain and swelling. However, only a doctor can assess the case and prescribe these drugs.
• Avoid friction: always try to wear comfortable and airy clothes, as friction can cause pain and contribute to worsening inflammation. Also, avoid sleeping on the puncture site to avoid rubbing it.
• Care with food: the dermatologist informed that there are foods that can make healing difficult. “In general, foods high in sugar such as sweets, carbohydrates and alcoholic beverages are inflammatory to the body as a whole and worsen inflammation making healing difficult.”

It is extremely important to perform the drilling with a qualified professional and follow the guidelines given by him. In this way, you will be able to prevent the inflamed piercing and healing will occur faster.

When should I see the doctor

In some cases, even following the guidelines given above, the inflammation continues. “If it does not improve or there is a worsening of inflammation, increased pain and discharge of secretion at the site, it is necessary to seek medical attention.”

More questions about the inflamed piercing clarified by the professional

Can I apply some kind of ointment?

Silvana Coghi (SC): “Yes, mainly antibiotic ointment combined with corticosteroids.”

When the piercing ignites is it necessary to remove?

SC: “It should be withdrawn if the targeted local treatment does not improve, or if it is evaluated by the doctor and used oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs without improvement of inflammation and infection.”

Can you put alcohol 70 on an inflamed piercing?

SC: “Alcohol 70 is a great antiseptic, but it can cause irritation (dermatitis) and significant local pain.”

What kind of material causes the least inflammation or allergy?

SC: “The material indicated is biocompatible ones, such as stainless steel (except for those allergic to nickel), titanium and niobium.”

Now that you know how to identify the inflamed piercing, just follow the dermatologist’s guidelines and if there is no improvement, consult a doctor. Enjoy and check out ear piercing ideas to get inspired!