With advancements in the piercing industry, the emphasis on proper aftercare and jewellery selection has grown significantly. One crucial aspect of piercing aftercare is downsizing the initial jewelry bar.
In this article, the focus delves into the reasons why individuals pierce with longer bars initially and emphasizes the importance of shortening the post for optimal healing. The potential consequences of not downsizing are also explored, including issues such as angled healing, migration, and the development of piercing bumps. By understanding the significance of downsizing, piercing enthusiasts can ensure a smoother healing process and preserve the aesthetic appeal of their piercings.
INITIAL PIERCING WITH LONGER BAR
When you get a new piercing, whether it's an earlobe, nose, lip, or any other area, the professional piercer typically uses a longer bar. This initial jewellrey is purposely chosen for specific reasons:
Accommodating Swelling: Fresh piercings are essentially wounds, and the body responds with inflammation and swelling. The longer bar provides extra space for the piercing to accommodate this natural healing response without exerting pressure on the surrounding tissue.
Flexibility during Healing: Longer bars offer more flexibility during the healing process, which is critical as the body undergoes changes in the pierced area.
OPTIMUM HEALING THROUGH DOWNSIZING
As the piercing site starts to heal, usually within 4-8 weeks, the swelling subsides, and the tissue stabilizes. This phase marks the appropriate time for downsizing the piercing bar:
Reducing Friction and Movement: The initial longer bar may move and cause friction against the healing tissue, hindering the healing process. Downsizing to a shorter, properly-fitted bar significantly reduces movement and minimizes irritation.
Promoting Faster Healing: By replacing the longer bar with a shorter one, the healing area experiences reduced stress, allowing it to heal more efficiently. Properly fitted jewellery aids the body's natural healing mechanisms and helps avoid complications.
PREVENTING HEALING COMPLICATIONS
Neglecting the downsizing process can lead to several unwanted complications:
Angled Healing: If the initial longer bar remains in place, there's a higher chance of the piercing healing at an angle. This can result in an uneven or misaligned appearance, leading to potential dissatisfaction with the piercing.
Migration: Improperly sized jewellery can cause the piercing to migrate or shift from its original placement. This not only affects the aesthetics of the piercing but also increases the risk of irritation or rejection.
Piercing Bumps: Longer jewellery may contribute to the development of piercing bumps, such as keloids or hypertrophic scars. These bumps are unsightly and can be uncomfortable, potentially requiring additional treatment to address.
Read: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PIERCING BUMPS: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENTS
STABILITY AND COMFORT
Using a properly sized bar offers stability and comfort throughout the healing process and beyond:
Avoiding Accidental Snagging: A well-fitted piercing reduces the chances of accidental snagging or pulling, which can lead to further irritation or even reopen the healing wound.
Enhancing Comfort: Comfort is paramount during the healing process. A well-fitted bar minimizes discomfort, making it less likely for the individual to touch or disturb the piercing unknowingly.
AESTHETIC CONSIDERATIONS
Downsizing plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall appearance of the piercing:
Sitting Snugly Against the Body: Shorter bars fit closer to the body, giving the piercing a more polished look. This snug fit enhances the beauty of the jewellery and complements the natural contours of the body.
Showcasing Jewellery Details: With a properly sized bar, the intricate details and gemstones of the jewellery piece are more visible, accentuating the charm of the piercing.
PROFESSIONAL AFTERCARE
Downsizing is typically performed by a professional piercer during a routine check-up:
Expert Assessment: Professional piercers can assess the healing progress and advise on the most suitable time for downsizing based on the individual's unique healing process.
Tailored Aftercare Advice: During the downsizing appointment, piercers can offer personalized aftercare advice, ensuring that the individual is well-informed about the best practices for caring for their healing piercing.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, downsizing a piercing bar is a crucial step in the aftercare process that should not be overlooked. Using a longer bar initially accommodates swelling and provides flexibility during the healing phase. However, timely downsizing is essential for promoting optimum healing, avoiding complications like angled healing, migration, and piercing bumps.
Additionally, a well-fitted bar enhances stability, comfort, and aesthetics, ensuring a more enjoyable and successful piercing experience. When in doubt, seeking guidance from a professional piercer is always recommended, as they can provide expert advice tailored to individual needs. Remember, a little attention to detail can go a long way in maintaining the beauty and health of cherished piercings.
PIERCING AFTERCARE
Create your business account today, and gain access to our exclusive piercing aftercare products.
DISCLAIMER: THIS ARTICLE DOES NOT CONTAIN ANY FORM OF MEDICAL ADVICE
The content of this of this article, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other materials, is strictly for informational purposes. Nothing on this article is meant to be a replacement for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a medical professional.
Before beginning a new health care regimen or with any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment, always consult a medical expert first.
Never disregard medical advice or put off consulting a medical professional because of something you have seen or read on this page.