If you have an infected piercing, it's important to take proper care of it to prevent the infection from worsening. Here are some general steps you can take based on the information from Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Healthline, and MyHealth Alberta:
- Clean the Piercing : * Wash your hands before touching or cleaning the piercing
* Clean around the piercing with a saltwater rinse three times a day using sterile saline or a mixture of 1/4 tsp. of salt with 8 oz. of distilled water
- Avoid Irritants : * Don't use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antibiotic ointments, as these can further irritate the skin and slow the healing process
- Do Not Remove the Piercing : * Removing the piercing can cause the hole to close up and trap the infection
- Seek Medical Attention : * If the infection doesn’t improve with home treatment within two days, you develop a fever, or the infection spreads beyond the piercing site, seek medical attention
* If you have a mildly infected piercing, you can treat it at home with a saline wash and over-the-counter antibiotic cream. However, serious infections may require medical attention
- Prevention : * To prevent infection, have your ears pierced by a professional and follow their aftercare instructions
Remember, if you suspect an infection in an earlobe piercing, take special care with hygiene, and if the infection worsens, contact a healthcare provider
. Always seek medical advice if you have concerns about an infected piercing.
