Body piercing is in now - big time! It is cool; it is hipand happening, all over the world. When one goes out, it is impossible not tonotice someone with a body piercing. Eyebrows, ears, nose, belly button, chin,lips and even tongues - piercings can be seen on almost all body parts. Somepeople also go in for piercing of their private parts. Multiple piercings arenot uncommon. But is it safe?


This article studies the A to Z of body piercing, as far asthe hygiene aspect of it is concerned. The meaning and history of bodypiercing, its evolution as a fashion statement, the process of piercing a bodypart as well as the precautions that should be taken for the same all of thishas been covered extensively in this article.


Meaning and history of body piercing


In simple words, 'body piercing' means 'the process ofpiercing a part of the human body'. A piece of jewellery is then inserted intothe piercing.


The reasons for which body piercing is done can be various,ranging from religion and conforming to the culture of a particular peer group,to eroticism and fashion. In today's times, fashion is the reason for which amajority of people undergo body piercing.


Since when has body piercing been in existence? Well, it isnot something recent. Evidences have been found that indicate that bodypiercing has been in vogue since centuries. The mummified body of tzi theIceman found on the border between Austria and Italy in the year 1991 has anear piercing. Experts believe that this body belongs to a person from 3300 BC.


Evidences have been found to indicate that nose piercing hasbeen done in India since as far back as the 16th century. Similarly,there has been evidence to indicate that ear piercing has existed in theWestern world since the 20th century. It was in the 1980s that bodypiercing became common in USA as a fashion. Body piercing was also done bycelebrities like Madonna during this period, which made the fashion popular theworld over.


Piercing procedure and risks


Usually, the process of body piercing entails the creationof a puncture in a body part using a medical needle. A scalpel or a dermalpunch might also be used for this purpose.


Sometimes, piercing guns are used for the purpose ofpiercing. Using a piercing gun reduces the amount of pain to the piercee. Generally,piercing using guns is done in retail settings such as malls. However, the useof a piercing gun is not without risk. There is the danger of damage to thesurrounding tissues, and, in the long run, the risk of deformation of theentire ear, which is known as 'cauliflowering'.

 

The common health risks associated with body piercing arethat of skin infection, scarring, excessive bleeding, allergic reactions to thejewellery used, boils, tetanus, hepatitis B and C, damage to a nerve and/orinflammation. Apart from this, tongue piercing can lead to damage to the teethin the long run. Similarly, tongue, cheek and lip piercing can lead to damageto the gums over time.


 

Piercing precautions


There are a number of precautions that need to be taken to ensure that the process of piercing is hygienic and infection-free. The tools to be used as well as the jewellery are sterilized before the piercing process begins, and all surrounding surfaces are cleaned with disinfectant agents. Sterilized gloves are worn by the piercer. The area to be pierced is cleaned thoroughly using a germicidal soap.


It is a generally accepted practice to dispose of the used needles after the piercing is done. This helps in reducing the incidence of infections.


On the part of the piercee also, there are certain precautions that need to be taken to ensure that the piercing does not create any problems. It is necessary to research well before deciding upon a place to get body piercing done. It is advisable to get a clear idea of the risks involved beforehand.


In case of people with certain medical conditions like diabetes and skin disorders, it is advisable to consult the doctor before undertaking piercing, and follow the precautions suggested by him. The same is the case for pregnant ladies who wish to undertake body piercing.


Before undertaking body piercing, it would be a good idea to research about the piercer and to ensure that he is a professional. It should be checked whether the piercer maintains a clean and healthy environment and that he follows the necessary precautions for healthy piercing. Also, the piercee should try to find out what metals are used in the jewellery used by the piercer, and ensure that he is not allergic to any of them.


Piercing jewellery


The jewellery that is initially used in a fresh body piercing is known as initial jewellery. Stainless steel and titanium are the most suitable materials for initial piercing jewellery.


To avoid complications, it is necessary to use jewellery of the right size in the piercing. Using jewellery that is too small or too large for the piercing might cause problems to the wearer.


Body piercing jewellery can be obtained from any jewellery shop. There are a large number of stores that sell such jewellery online.


Piercing aftercare


After piercing is undertaken, it might take a period from a couple of years to a year to heal completely. This would depend upon the type of piercing. Taking proper care of the piercing helps to ensure that it heals soon and without complications.


The piercee should take care to see that the piercing does not get caught in clothing or elsewhere. Picking at the piercing or tugging on it should be avoided. The area of the piercing should be washed regularly with an antibacterial soap. In case of a lip or tongue piercing, an antibacterial mouthwash should be used after eating a meal.


Cleaning the piercing with oil, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide should be avoided. The recommended aftercare guidelines should be followed. The pierce should have sufficient sleep, and avoid excessive smoking or alcohol consumption. Contact with possible irritants like pool water, lotions, ointments, perfumes, etc. should be avoided as far as possible.


Going to the piercer or the doctor at regular intervals of time for after-piercing check-ups goes a long way in nipping any infections or other complications in the bud itself. Taking iron and zinc supplements regularly also helps to a great extent in the process of healing.


In case of some piercings, particularly piercings of the tongue, it is necessary to change the initial jewellery and put in new jewellery, so as to aid the process of healing.


 

Afterword


Body piercing can be a healthy and satisfying experience if it is done by a professional, following the necessary precautionary measures. If the piercee takes proper care of the piercing and maintains it well, there is no reason why it cannot be a source of joy to him or her.


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