Changing your industrial piercing can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and technique, it's a manageable process. This guide will walk you through the steps, emphasizing safety and hygiene to ensure a smooth and problem-free experience. Remember, improper technique can lead to infection or damage, so proceed with caution and seek professional help if you're unsure about any step.
Preparing for the Change
Before you even think about touching your piercing, sterilization is paramount. This is the single most important factor in preventing infection. You'll need:
- Clean Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water for at least 30 seconds.
- Sterile Saline Solution: This is your best friend. Use a saline solution specifically designed for wound care. Avoid homemade solutions, as these can be contaminated.
- New Jewelry: Ensure your replacement jewelry is the correct size and gauge for your piercing. Using improperly sized jewelry can cause significant problems. Choose high-quality materials like implant-grade titanium or surgical steel to minimize irritation.
- Clean Towels: Use clean, disposable paper towels to avoid cross-contamination.
- Non-Sterile Gloves (Optional but Recommended): Adding an extra layer of protection is always a good idea.
Choosing the Right Jewelry
Selecting appropriate replacement jewelry is crucial. The gauge (thickness) and length must match your existing piercing. Trying to force in jewelry that's too small or too large can cause significant trauma. If you're unsure, consult your piercer. Consider these factors:
- Material: Implant-grade titanium or surgical steel are generally the safest options. Avoid nickel-based metals, which can cause allergic reactions.
- Style: Straight barbells are typically easiest to manage for industrial piercings.
The Process of Changing Your Industrial Piercing
1. Cleanse the Area: Thoroughly clean your piercing and the surrounding skin with sterile saline solution. Gently wipe away any crust or debris. Let the area air dry completely.
2. Remove the Old Jewelry:
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Straight Barbell: If you have a straight barbell, gently hold the barbell balls on either end and rotate them, unscrewing them slowly. Once the balls are off, carefully slide the barbell out, keeping the bar parallel to the piercing's channel.
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Curved Barbells or other more complex jewelry: Consult your piercer if you are not certain how to remove this safely.
3. Insert the New Jewelry:
- Straight Barbell: Gently lubricate the new barbell with a small amount of sterile saline solution. Insert one end of the barbell into the piercing hole, carefully aligning it with the channel. Push it through slowly and carefully. Once through, screw on the ball securely.
- Other types: Consult your piercer.
4. Final Cleanse: After inserting the new jewelry, clean the area again with sterile saline solution to remove any residue or potential contaminants.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare is vital to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.
- Clean Regularly: Clean your piercing twice a day with sterile saline solution.
- Avoid Touching: Resist the urge to touch or play with your piercing, except during cleaning.
- Keep it Dry: Avoid submerging your piercing in water (like swimming pools or hot tubs) for several weeks, especially in the first month following the change.
- Avoid Irritants: Avoid products such as makeup, lotions, and hairsprays that might come into contact with your piercing.
- Watch for Infection: Monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or pus. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
When to See a Professional
If you're uncomfortable changing your industrial piercing yourself, or if you encounter any problems during the process, consult a professional piercer. They have the experience and expertise to handle the procedure safely and effectively. Do not attempt to force anything.
By following these steps and prioritizing hygiene, you can successfully change your industrial piercing. However, remember that your safety is paramount, and it's always best to err on the side of caution.
