Causes of itching
1. Healing in progress: a normal phase
If your piercing is new, itching may be a sign of healing. During this phase, your body is responding to repair the area. Itching is a common side effect as the skin rebuilds.
Please note:
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This can last several weeks to several months.
- As long as you don't notice any severe redness, swelling, or unusual discharge, there's no need to worry.
2. Reaction to the material of the jewelry
Jewelry made with an unsuitable material (such as alloys containing nickel) can irritate your skin and cause itching.
The solution:
- Look for jewelry made from high-quality ASTM F-136 titanium, niobium, or surgical steel.
- Consult your piercer for a change if you suspect an allergy.
3. Excessive drying
Overuse of antiseptic products or an overly rigorous skincare routine can dry out the skin around the piercing, leading to itching.
What to do :
- Cleanse twice daily maximum with sterile saline solution.
- Avoid scented soaps, alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can be drying or irritating.
4. Accumulation of sebum and dead cells
The skin around the piercing naturally produces sebum, which can build up with dead cells and cause irritation.
Trick :
- Gently clean around the jewelry with sterile saline solution to remove residue.
5. Snagging or rubbing
Accidental snagging on your clothing or repeated friction (for example, with headphones or earphones) can irritate the area and cause itching.
How to prevent?
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Adapt your jewelry to your lifestyle: prefer simple and well-fitting models.
- Be careful of tight clothing or accessories that may irritate.
Can itching be a sign of infection?
Sometimes, but not always. Here are the symptoms of a possible infection:
- Persistent redness or warmth around the piercing.
- Yellow or greenish discharge.
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Increased pain and swelling.
If you notice these signs:
- Contact your piercer immediately.
- Clean gently with sterile saline solution.
- Do not remove the jewelry without professional advice, as this could make the situation worse.
What to do to relieve itching?
1. Avoid scratching or touching
As tempting as it may be, scratching can make the irritation worse or introduce bacteria.
2. Moisturize the skin
If your skin is dry, apply a moisturizer suitable for healing (approved by your piercer).
3. Soothe irritation with saline compresses
Apply a compress soaked in warm saline solution to the piercing for a few minutes. This will relieve itching and promote healing.
4. Choose a suitable jewel
If the itching persists, your jewelry may not be suitable. For example, jewelry that is not suitable for a helix piercing may cause friction or irritation. In this case, consider upgrading to a titanium or niobium jewelry, which is ideal for sensitive skin.
