Various Forms of Naval Piercings, Elucidated (Complemented by Post-Procedure Advice)
In the realm of body piercings, the horizontal navel piercing stands out as a unique and stylish choice. This piercing, a type of surface piercing, is positioned horizontally and can be placed above, below, or to either side of the navel.
Caring for a horizontal navel piercing requires diligence and patience to ensure a smooth healing process. Here's a guide to the best practices for aftercare:
- Cleaning the Piercing Twice Daily: Keep the area free from bacteria and crusted discharge without over-drying the tissue by cleaning the piercing twice daily with sterile saline solution or a gentle saline wound wash. Avoid harsh antiseptics unless advised by a professional.
- Minimal Handling: Avoid touching or playing with the piercing, and only handle it with clean hands during cleaning to minimize infection risk.
- Loose Clothing: Wear loose, low-waisted clothing to prevent irritation and pressure on the piercing site.
- Avoid Swimming: Avoid swimming and submerging the piercing in bodies of water until fully healed to prevent infection.
- No Early Jewelry Changes: Not changing or removing the jewelry until the piercing is fully healed can prevent damage and prolong healing.
- Hydration and Diet: Keep the area hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and maintaining a healthy diet to aid healing.
- Avoid Sleeping on the Pierced Side: Avoid sleeping on the pierced side or putting direct pressure on the piercing to reduce irritation and swelling.
- Hot Saline Soaks: Hot saline soaks twice daily may be helpful in managing crusted discharge and promoting healing by keeping the area clean and unblocking the piercing holes.
Healing time for a horizontal navel (surface) piercing can be longer than a standard vertical navel piercing, often taking several months due to its surface placement. It is vital to keep consistent aftercare throughout the healing period to avoid complications such as infections or bumps.
Before getting a horizontal navel piercing, it's important to note that most belly button piercings are anatomy-dependent, and a piercer will inspect the belly button to ensure it's suitable for the piercing.
Many piercing specialists recommend sleeping, eating, and hydrating well before a belly button piercing appointment to promote healing. At the appointment, the piercer will use a clamp to isolate and stretch the skin before piercing it with a hollow needle and inserting jewelry.
This article, co-authored by Devin McSween, a staff writer at the website, provides a comprehensive guide to the aftercare of horizontal navel piercings. Devin McSween has a background in psychology and has presented her research at conferences and contributed to manuscripts for publication. The article cites 19 references to ensure factual accuracy.
- Proper education and adherence to health-and-wellness practices are crucial in the skin-care routine for maintaining a healthy horizontal navel piercing.
- To support a speedy and inconsequential healing process, one must follow an regular cleaning schedule, pairing it with a balanced lifestyle, including a nutritious diet and hydration.
- Considering the unique placement of the horizontal navel piercing, it is recommended to be informed about the potential benefits and challenges from the realm of science and fashion-and-beauty to make a well-informed decision.
- When initially choosing to get a horizontal navel piercing, seek advice and guidance from professionals who have extensive knowledge in skin-care, health, and the piercing industry.
- Apart from the care of your horizontal navel piercing, take precautions to preserve the cleanliness of your home-and-garden environment to minimize potential bacteria contamination.
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