Piercings have become increasingly common and popular in recent years. With the warmer months approaching, many people are thinking about getting new piercings or showing off their existing ones.
However, summer is a risky time for piercings, and it’s essential to take particular precautions to ensure they stay safe and healthy.
1. Exposure to Sunlight
During the summer months, people spend a lot of time in the sun, which can lead to sunburns and skin damage. Piercings are vulnerable to exposure to UV rays, which can alter the color of the jewelry or lead to infections or inflammation.
To prevent this, it’s essential to cover your piercing with a piece of clothing or a bandage. Jewelry that is made from materials like gold or silver can reflect those rays and burn you or damage the piercing area.
However, limiting exposure to sunlight altogether is a better approach.
2. Swimming and Soaking
Summer often means trips to the beach, the pool or the lake. People, especially those with fresh piercings, should be careful when they swim or soak in the water.
Chlorine, saltwater, and dirty water can cause infections, irritations, and lead to slow healing.
To avoid complications, it’s best to avoid swimming or soaking for at least a month after getting pierced. Stay away from hot tubs and avoid frequent showers during the first periods of aftercare.
When you eventually get back in the water, clean the piercing immediately afterward with a saline solution or mild antibacterial soap.
3. Sweat and Friction
In Summer, people tend to be more active, and their skin can sweat more than usual. Sweat can make the piercing area moist, which can lead to infections and slow down the healing process.
Additionally, too much friction can irritate the area around the piercing, causing soreness or even embedding the jewelry in the skin.
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An excellent solution is to wear loose and breathable clothing that doesn’t put too much pressure on the piercing. Avoid touching the piercing area unless you’re cleaning it and avoid excessive movement or sweating.
4. Insects and Bites
Insects can be a massive risk for piercings, especially in summer. Bites from mosquitos, ticks, and other insects can cause infections and damage the piercings.
Insect repellents and sunscreen lotion can also contain chemicals that can irritate the piercing area.
To avoid this risk altogether, cover piercings in clothing or with a bandage. Wear insect repellent that doesn’t contain DEET or use natural alternatives like peppermint oil or citronella oil.
5. Exposure to Germs
In Summer, people spend more time outdoors and in contact with other people, which increases the chance of exposing their piercings to germs. Sick people or dirty surfaces can contain bacteria and viruses that can cause infections and slow healing.
To avoid this risk, it’s essential to wash your hands frequently and keep the piercing clean and dry. Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands or exposing it to unsanitary conditions.
Conclusion
Piercings are a beautiful and exciting form of self-expression, but they require some dedicated care and attention, especially in summer.
Sunlight, swimming, sweat, insects, and germs can all cause infections, irritations, and slow down the healing process.
By taking extra precautions and following the guidance of your piercer, you can protect your piercing and enjoy the warm summer months safely.
Be patient with the healing process and take care of yourself, and your piercing will look stunning for years to come.
