Piercing Rejection: How to Recognize and Prevent It

How does a piercing rejection happen?

When rejection occurs, the first signs are often redness, dry skin, inflammatory symptoms and sometimes lymph secretions. The piercing appears to get bigger because the skin reduces the distance between the entrance and the exit. The jewelry can even rise to the surface of the skin, visible by transparency.

Why does piercing rejection happen?

There are several factors that can lead to piercing rejection. These include skin tension, repeated snagging, infections , improper care, persistent inflammation, choosing an unsuitable location for the piercing, slow healing, unsuitable jewelry, or simply a natural reaction of the body.

When can piercing rejection occur?

It is difficult to predict when rejection will occur. However, it is usually observed between the second month and the first year. In some cases, rejection may occur after several years.

Who can experience piercing rejection?

Anyone can potentially experience piercing rejection. However, this phenomenon is more common with surface piercings. Don't assume that your piercing will necessarily be rejected, it remains very rare.

What to do if your piercing is rejected?

If you suspect rejection, consult your piercer immediately. If the rejection diagnosis is confirmed, remove the jewelry and clean the wound with a healing cream to minimize scarring.

Traces of a piercing rejection

A piercing rejection usually leaves a scar. You will have a line or two small red marks that will whiten over time. A scar usually evolves between six months and three years.

Piercings most likely to reject

Surface piercings such as nape, madison, navel, eyebrow, bridge and microdermal implants in general are more likely to be rejected.

Do not confuse rejection with infection or inflammation

It is crucial not to confuse rejection, inflammation and infection. An infection can lead to rejection, but this is not always the case. Consult a professional if you are unsure, the best person to do so being, as is often the case, your piercer.

Migrating a piercing

Piercing migration can be a warning sign of rejection. This means that the body is moving the piercing because the location where it was placed is not right for it.

How to prevent piercing rejection?

While it's nearly impossible to stop rejection once it's started, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. For example, avoid piercings that are too short or too long (long jewelry can snag more easily), use specific materials like titanium for high-risk piercings, and follow your piercer's aftercare advice carefully .