Smiley Dogg

Piercing Healing Guide

Getting a new piercing is an exciting experience, but proper aftercare is essential to ensure a smooth healing process. Every piercing heals at its own pace, depending on the location and individual factors. Here’s everything you need to know to care for your new piercing.

Healing Stages

1. Initial Phase (First Few Days - Weeks)

  • Expect some swelling, redness, and tenderness around the area.
  • The piercing may feel warm and slightly sensitive to touch.
  • A clear or white discharge may be present; this is normal and part of the healing process.

2. Healing Phase (Weeks to Months)

  • The body begins repairing the tissue around the piercing.
  • Some crusting around the jewellery is normal – avoid picking at it.
  • The piercing may appear fully healed on the outside, but internal healing is still in progress.

3. Maturation Phase (Months to a Year)

The piercing becomes more stable as the new tissue strengthens.

Any lingering sensitivity should subside.

Regular care and hygiene are still important to prevent irritation or infection..

Healing Times by Piercing Location

Piercing Type Estimated Healing Time

Earlobe 6 - 8 weeks

Ear Cartilage 4 months - 1 year

Nostril 2 - 4 months

Eyebrow 6 - 8 weeks

Lip 6 - 8 weeks

Tongue 4 - 6 weeks

Nipple 6 months - 1 year

Navel (Belly Button) 6 months - 1 year

Genital Piercings 4 weeks - 6 months

Note: Healing times can vary based on individual factors and proper aftercare.

Aftercare Tips

Cleaning & Hygiene

  • Always wash your hands before touching your piercing.
  • Clean the area twice daily using a saline solution or a piercing aftercare product recommended by your piercer.
  • Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh soaps, as they can irritate the piercing.

Oral Piercing Aftercare

  • Rinse your mouth with alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash or a saline solution after eating or drinking anything other than water.
  • Avoid spicy, acidic, or hot foods in the first few days to prevent irritation.
  • Do not play with the jewellery using your tongue or teeth, as this can delay healing and cause complications.
  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing your teeth gently and using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Reduce swelling by sucking on ice chips or drinking cold water.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking during the healing process, as they can increase irritation and prolong healing time.
  • Check your jewellery regularly to ensure it remains secure, but do not remove or change it too soon.

What to Avoid

  • Do not remove or twist your jewellery until fully healed.
  • Avoid submerging the piercing in pools, hot tubs, or the ocean during healing.
  • Be mindful of clothing and hair that may rub or snag on the piercing.
  • Refrain from sleeping directly on fresh piercings to prevent irritation.

Signs of Healing vs. Infection

➕ Normal signs of healing:

  • Mild redness, swelling, or tenderness
  • Light crusting around the jewellery
  • Clear or white fluid (not pus)

❌ Signs of infection:

  • Excessive swelling, prolonged redness, or heat around the piercing
  • Thick yellow or green discharge
  • Severe pain or throbbing
  • Fever or flu-like symptoms

If you experience any concerning symptoms, contact a professional piercer.

Changing Your Jewellery

  • We recommend waiting until full healing before changing jewellery.
  • If you’d like to upgrade to premium jewellery, visit Smiley Dogg Tattoo for high-quality implant-grade titanium or gold options.
  • Consult with a piercer if you’re unsure about sizing or materials.

 Book Your Piercing Appointment

For any questions, feel free to contact us or visit Smiley Dogg for expert advice. Happy healing!