Signs of an Infected Piercing & How to Treat It

Getting a new piercing is exciting, but proper aftercare is crucial to prevent infections. Even with the best care, piercings can sometimes get irritated or infected. But how do you know if your piercing is just irritated or if it’s something more serious? In this guide, we’ll cover the common signs of an infected piercing and how to treat it properly to ensure a smooth healing process.

Common Signs of an Infected Piercing

🔴 Persistent Redness & Swelling

• Some redness and swelling are normal right after getting pierced, but if it lasts more than a few days or worsens, it may indicate an infection.

💧 Unusual Discharge

• Clear or slightly white fluid is part of the normal healing process. However, thick yellow or green pus, especially with a bad odor, can be a sign of infection.

🔥 Pain That Doesn’t Go Away

• Mild discomfort is normal, but sharp, throbbing pain that persists or worsens over time could indicate a problem.

🌡️ Fever & Chills

• If you experience fever, chills, or body aches, it could mean the infection is spreading. Seek medical attention immediately.

🚨 Hard Lumps or Excessive Bumps

• Small bumps (like hypertrophic scars) can form due to irritation, but large, painful lumps may suggest an infection or an abscess forming under the skin.

How to Treat an Infected Piercing

✅ Keep It Clean, But Don’t Overdo It

• Clean your piercing twice daily using a sterile saline solution or a piercing aftercare spray.
• Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as they can dry out and irritate the piercing.

✅ Avoid Touching or Twisting Your Jewelry

• The more you touch your piercing, the higher the chance of introducing bacteria.
• Never twist or move the jewelry excessively, as it can delay healing.

✅ Use Warm Saline Soaks

• A warm saltwater soak (¼ teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt + 1 cup warm water) can help reduce swelling and draw out minor infections.

✅ Stick to Hypoallergenic Jewelry

• 14K Gold, titanium, and surgical steel are the best choices to avoid allergic reactions and minimize irritation. If your jewelry is low-quality, consider switching to a hypoallergenic option.

✅ Avoid Swimming & Makeup

• Stay away from pools, hot tubs, and open water while your piercing is healing.
• Avoid applying makeup, lotions, or hair products directly on or around the piercing.

When to See a Professional

🚑 If your symptoms worsen after 48 hours of at-home treatment.
🚑 If you have a fever, severe pain, or excessive swelling.
🚑 If your jewelry starts to embed into the skin or the area becomes hot and red.

A professional piercer or doctor can assess whether you need medical treatment, such as antibiotics. Never remove your jewelry during an active infection, as it can trap bacteria inside and worsen the issue.

While piercing infections can be concerning, early detection and proper care can prevent serious complications. Always follow a strict aftercare routine, choose hypoallergenic jewelry, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional if needed.

💬 Have you ever dealt with an infected piercing? What worked best for you? Share your experience in the comments!