How to Clean a Tragus Piercing: 11 Steps
A tragus piercing is a popular type of ear piercing that goes through the small piece of cartilage in front of the ear canal. As with any piercing, proper care and cleaning are essential to avoid infection and ensure successful healing. Here are 11 steps to effectively clean your tragus piercing:
1. Wash your hands: Before you start cleaning your piercing, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent bacteria transfer.
2. Prepare a saline solution: Create a saline solution by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt into 8 ounces of distilled or bottled water. Do not use tap water, as it may contain harmful bacteria.
3. Soak a cotton swab or cotton ball: Dip a cotton ball or swab into the saline solution until it’s soaked through.
4. Apply the solution on the tragus: Gently press the soaked cotton against your tragus piercing. Hold it in place for about 30 seconds to allow the solution to work its way into the pierced area.
5. Turn the jewelry carefully: With clean fingers, gently twist or rotate the jewelry in your tragus piercing to help loosen any crust or build-up around the area.
6. Clean both sides: Make sure to clean both the front and back of your tragus piercing using fresh cotton swabs dipped in saline solution.
7. Remove debris: If there’s any visible debris or crust around your piercing, use clean tweezers or another cotton swab dampened with saline solution to gently remove it.
8. Rinse with water: After cleaning your tragus, gently rinse the area with fresh distilled or bottled water to remove any residue from the saline solution.
9. Pat dry: Carefully pat your tragus dry using a clean paper towel or soft tissue.
10. Avoid over-cleaning: Clean your tragus piercing 2-3 times per day initially, but scale back to once per day after the first week to avoid irritating the area.
11. Monitor for infection: Keep an eye out for any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If you suspect an infection, consult your piercer or a healthcare professional immediately.
By following these 11 steps, you can keep your tragus piercing clean and healthy throughout the healing process. Always remember to listen to your body and seek professional advice if you’re unsure about any aspect of your piercing care.