Using a salt solution to clean a new piercing is a common practice recommended by piercers, as it helps remove debris and soothe the wound. This method is rooted in the use of sterile saline for wound care. When creating a homemade solution, people often use the most common salt available: iodized table salt. However, using the wrong type of salt can introduce chemical irritants to the delicate, healing tissue. The question of whether iodized salt is suitable for piercing aftercare has a clear answer for anyone seeking a smooth healing process.
Understanding Why Iodized Salt Is Unsuitable
Iodized salt, or standard table salt, is unsuitable for cleaning a healing piercing primarily because of its additives. The initial concern is not the iodine itself, but the anti-caking agents mixed in to prevent clumping. These agents often include substances like calcium silicate or sodium ferrocyanide. When applied to an open wound, these chemical additives can be harsh and abrasive to the newly forming skin cells.
This irritation can lead to inflammation, excessive redness, and a prolonged healing time for the piercing. Standard table salt is often finely ground, which makes it harder to ensure complete dissolution in water. Undissolved salt crystals can directly scratch or irritate the piercing site. Introducing unnecessary chemicals risks a reaction that can cause hypertrophic scarring or “salt burns.”
Preparing the Correct Saline Solution
The recommended alternative to common table salt is a pure form of sodium chloride, such as non-iodized sea salt or pure canning/pickling salt, which lack irritating additives. However, the most reliable and safest method is to use a pre-made sterile saline wound wash. These commercial products guarantee the correct 0.9% sodium chloride to purified water ratio, making the solution isotonic. This concentration is designed to match the salinity of the body’s natural fluids, minimizing irritation to the wound.
If a pre-made sterile solution is not immediately available, a homemade solution requires precise measurement to avoid complications. The accepted ratio is one-quarter teaspoon of non-iodized salt dissolved completely in eight ounces (one cup) of distilled or previously boiled water. Using sterilized water is necessary to ensure no bacteria or contaminants are introduced to the piercing. Stir the mixture until all salt granules are fully dissolved, and ensure the solution is warm, not hot, before use.
Essential Practices for Piercing Aftercare
Regardless of whether a homemade or commercial saline solution is used, the application technique and overall aftercare routine promote healing. The cleaning process should be performed once or twice a day, focusing on gently removing any crusty discharge around the jewelry. Over-cleaning can be detrimental, as it can dry out the piercing and cause unnecessary irritation.
The preferred method is to spray the sterile saline directly onto the piercing or use a clean paper towel saturated with the solution to gently dab the area. Soaking the piercing in a cup of solution is also an option for certain body locations. After cleaning, gently pat the area dry with a clean, disposable paper product, since cloth towels can harbor bacteria and snag on the jewelry. Avoid common mistakes like using harsh chemicals such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antibacterial soaps, which damage healing tissue. Refrain from twisting or rotating the jewelry, as this action can tear the delicate internal fistula and introduce bacteria.