Why do piercings itch? Here's why

Why do piercings itch? Here's why

If you’ve recently gotten a piercing, you may have noticed an annoying itch around the area. But don’t worry—this is completely normal, and it’s something many people experience during the healing process. Understanding why piercings itch can help you manage the sensation and ensure proper healing.

The healing process

When you get a piercing, your body treats it like a small wound, which means your skin needs to go through a healing process. As the tissue heals, it forms new cells around the jewelry, and this can cause itching. This is a sign that your body is doing its job of regenerating the skin. The itching typically lasts for a few weeks, but in some cases, it can take several months for a piercing to fully heal (source: Healthline).

Dry skin

Dryness around your piercing can also contribute to itching. When your skin is healing, it can become dry and flaky, which leads to an itchy feeling. The piercing area might not get the moisture it needs, which can aggravate the skin. Avoid using harsh products like alcohol, as they can dry out the skin even more (source: American Academy of Dermatology).

Allergic reactions to jewelry

Sometimes, itching is caused by an allergic reaction to the metal in your jewelry. If your piercing is made from nickel or brass, these metals can irritate sensitive skin, leading to itching and discomfort. If you suspect this is the case, consider switching to more biocompatible metals, like Titanium, which are less likely to cause irritation (source: Piercing Body Jewelry).

Infection or inflammation

While itching is usually normal, persistent itching combined with redness, swelling, or pus may be a sign of infection. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention right away. Infections are rare if proper aftercare is followed, but they can occur if the piercing becomes exposed to bacteria or if it’s handled too much during the healing period (source: Mayo Clinic).

While itching is a common part of healing a piercing, it’s usually temporary and should subside as the skin heals. However, if the itching doesn’t stop or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider for advice.