If you’ve just gotten a new piercing, you might be wondering, Is alcohol or hydrogen peroxide safe for piercing care? While these seem like good options, they’re actually not ideal for your healing process.
Alcohol: not recommended
Alcohol is too harsh for new piercings. It kills bacteria, yes, but it also dries out your skin and irritates the tissue around the piercing. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises against using alcohol, as it can slow healing and increase discomfort.
Hydrogen Peroxide: avoid it
Similarly, hydrogen peroxide can damage the cells needed for healing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends avoiding hydrogen peroxide on fresh piercings, as it can cause more harm than good.
What to use instead?
The best option for cleaning your piercing is a saline solution. The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) suggests using a saline solution twice a day. You can buy pre-made sterile saline solution easily to help you clean your piercing.
Aftercare Tips
Wash your hands before touching your piercing.
Don’t twist or rotate the jewelry to prevent irritation.
Avoid submerging your piercing in water until it’s healed.
Conclusion
Skip the alcohol and hydrogen peroxide, and stick to saline solution for cleaning your piercing. For more details, visit the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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