Bridge Piercing Aftercare
Healing Rate: 12-18+ months
This piercing is notorious for being rejected by the immune responses of the skin, so extra care of not allowing it to be damaged and regular use of hot water compresses is key to successful healing and retention. The formation of “piercing bubbles” is also a common healing issue with the bridge piercing and are solely caused by damage. All piercings are more easily damaged during the initial period of acclimating to them, so a daily hot water compress will keep the immune system tamped down and stop bubbles from forming and/or enlarging.
DO:
Flushing rinse to area; showers are best for this
Wait to change the starter jewelry until fully healed. (How to tell?)
Hot water compress daily 4-6 weeks, then as needed for discomfort or immediately following damage
DON’T:
Move the jewelry (not necessary for the surgical steel jewelry used for healing)
Touch, turn or pull at the skin of the forehead, nose, cheeks or eyes
Remove the healing jewelry before it is fully healed, no matter what!
Do not use any of the following:
Rubbing alcohol: Too drying, can harm new forming skin cells
Hydrogen peroxide: Can cause infection by adding oxygen into the deeper tissues
Saline: While saline doesn’t really cause harm, it is mostly just a waste of time. The spray delivery only contacts the surface which can be done with warm water in the shower to the same effect. Alternatively, saline needs to be heated and used to soak the piercing site for ~20-minutes. Shower is easier!
Soaps: Drying and can get stuck inside the piercing where it can grow bacteria
Antibiotic gel or lotion: Only safe for topical use so there is a risk of it going into the piercing where it can grow bacteria
COMMON HEALING ISSUES
Here are some links to more detailed information on some of the most common issues healing body piercings.
Fluid Discharge & “Crusties” - Know what you’re seeing
Swimming & Bathing Information
GETTING HELP
Use these tips before attempting first changeout. (Better to take advantage of the included changeout service!)
Begin hot water compressing as detailed in this link.
Have someone else take a clear picture of the piercing - this is a much better way to monitor it than mirrors or trying to selfie. And you can text it to us for evaluation.
Schedule a care appointment if there is no improvement after the 3rd day of hot water compressing. Do not remove or manipulate the piercing jewelry.
Text us: 724-745-9415