If you’ve noticed a bump around your piercing, don’t worry! Piercing bumps are common and can be treated at home. To get rid of a piercing bump, you need to follow proper cleaning routines, use saline soaks, and avoid touching the area. Most bumps will go away with consistent care, but it’s important to be patient, as healing can take time.
What Causes Piercing Bumps?
Before treating the bump, it’s helpful to know what might have caused it. Common reasons include:
- Infection: If bacteria enter the piercing site, it can cause swelling and bumps.
- Irritation: Jewelry that is too tight, made of poor-quality materials, or movement of the piercing can irritate the skin.
- Injury: Accidentally bumping or tugging on the piercing can cause trauma and lead to bumps.
- Allergic Reaction: Some people are allergic to certain metals, which can cause the skin to react and form a bump.
How to Get Rid of a Piercing Bump
- Saline Soaks Saline solution (a mix of salt and warm water) is one of the best ways to treat a piercing bump. You can buy pre-made saline solutions or make your own by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt with 8 ounces of warm water. Soak a cotton ball in the solution and gently press it against the piercing for 5-10 minutes, twice a day.
- Tea Tree Oil Tea tree oil has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with water or carrier oil, like coconut oil, and apply it gently to the bump with a clean cotton swab. Be careful—tea tree oil is strong, so always dilute it to avoid irritation.
- Avoid Touching or Changing the Jewelry Touching your piercing with dirty hands or changing the jewelry too soon can worsen the bump. Make sure to clean your hands before touching the area, and avoid rotating or moving the jewelry unless cleaning it. Also, ensure that the jewelry you’re using is made from high-quality materials, like surgical steel or titanium, to prevent irritation.
- Switch to Hypoallergenic Jewelry If you suspect an allergic reaction to your current jewelry, switch to hypoallergenic options, such as titanium or 14-karat gold. This can prevent further irritation and help the bump heal.
- Consult a Professional If the bump doesn’t improve after a few weeks of home treatment, it’s a good idea to see a professional piercer or a healthcare provider. They can assess the situation and provide further advice or treatments, such as using over-the-counter antibiotics or removing problematic jewelry.
How Long Does It Take for the Bump to Go Away?
So you already know that how you can get rid of piercing bump, but do you know how long does it take for the bump to go away? Well, with proper care, piercing bumps can start to shrink within a few days to weeks, but full healing might take several months. Keep up with your cleaning routine, and avoid irritation to help the process.
When to Worry About a Piercing Bump
Most piercing bumps are harmless, but if you notice signs of infection, like excessive redness, heat, pus, or severe pain, it’s time to visit a doctor. Infections may require antibiotics to heal properly.
Conclusion
Getting rid of a piercing bump requires patience and consistent care. Use saline soaks, avoid touching the piercing, and try tea tree oil for faster healing. If your bump doesn’t go away after a few weeks or you notice signs of infection, seek help from a professional. With proper care, you can keep your piercing healthy and bump-free!
