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Body piercings have been around for centuries, but despite their popularity, there are still plenty of myths and misconceptions about them. From healing times to jewelry choices, misinformation can lead to unnecessary worry or even improper care. It’s time to set the record straight! Here are some of the most common piercing myths—debunked.
Myth #1: You Can’t Go Swimming with a New Piercing
Truth: While it’s best to avoid pools, lakes, and hot tubs with a fresh piercing due to bacteria, you don’t have to give up swimming completely. If you must swim, use a waterproof wound-sealant bandage and rinse your piercing with saline solution immediately afterward.
Myth #2: Piercings Close Instantly If You Remove the Jewelry
Truth: The speed at which a piercing closes depends on its age, location, and your body’s healing process. Newer piercings can close within hours, while well-healed ones may stay open for days, weeks, or even years. If you need to remove your jewelry temporarily, use a retainer to keep the hole open.
Myth #3: You Should Twist Your Jewelry to Prevent It from Sticking
Truth: Twisting or moving your jewelry does more harm than good. It can introduce bacteria, cause irritation, and even lead to scarring. The best approach is to clean around the jewelry with saline solution and let it heal naturally.
Myth #4: Alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide is the Best Aftercare Solution
Truth: These harsh chemicals dry out the skin and can delay healing. Instead, use a sterile saline solution (like a wound wash) to keep your piercing clean and irritation-free.
Myth #5: You Can’t Get Pierced with Surgical Steel If You Have Sensitive Skin
Truth: Surgical steel is a safe and hypoallergenic option for most people. However, those with severe nickel allergies may prefer titanium, which is 100% nickel-free. Here are some of the best materials for fresh piercings:
- Implant-grade surgical steel (316L or 316LVM) – Safe for most people.
- Titanium (ASTM F-136 or Grade 23) – Ideal for those with nickel sensitivity.
- Niobium – Another hypoallergenic option.
- Solid gold (14K or 18K, nickel-free) – A luxurious choice for healed piercings.
Avoid cheap, plated jewelry or unknown metals, as they can cause irritation and allergic reactions.
Myth #6: Externally Threaded Jewelry is Bad for Piercings
Truth: While internally threaded and threadless jewelry are often recommended, externally threaded jewelry can also be a good option for fresh piercings when it is high-quality and has smooth threading.
Here’s the difference:
- Internally Threaded Jewelry: The threading is inside the post, making insertion smoother and reducing irritation—often the preferred choice for fresh piercings.
- Threadless Jewelry: Uses a push-fit mechanism, making it secure and easy to change.
- Externally Threaded Jewelry: The threads are on the outside of the post. While some lower-quality versions may have rough threading that can cause irritation, high-quality externally threaded jewelry with smooth, refined threading is perfectly safe for both fresh and healed piercings.
If choosing externally threaded jewelry for a fresh piercing, make sure it is made from implant-grade surgical steel or titanium with polished threading to avoid irritation.
Myth #7: Piercings Always Get Infected
Truth: Not every bump or redness means infection! Irritation bumps and healing reactions are common but don’t always require antibiotics. Most issues can be resolved with proper aftercare, avoiding unnecessary touching, and letting your body heal at its own pace. If you notice persistent pain, pus, or worsening symptoms, consult a professional.
Myth #8: If a Piercing Is Red or Swollen, You Should Remove the Jewelry
Truth: Never remove jewelry from an irritated or infected piercing unless advised by a professional. Removing it can trap bacteria inside, worsening the problem. Instead, continue cleaning with saline solution and seek professional guidance if symptoms persist.
Myth #9: Numbing Creams Work for Piercings
Truth: While numbing creams may slightly dull the sensation, they don’t eliminate pain completely and can interfere with the piercing process. A skilled piercer will make the experience quick and as painless as possible without the need for numbing products.
Misinformation about piercings can lead to unnecessary stress or improper care. By knowing the facts, you can enjoy your piercings safely and confidently!
