A dermal piercing, also known as a microdermal, involves anchoring jewelry beneath the skin’s surface without an exit point, unlike traditional piercings. The procedure inserts a small, flat anchor into the dermis layer, with the decorative top visible. Because the anchor sits beneath the skin, the piercing is essentially an open wound containing a foreign object, making infection a serious concern. Recognizing the signs of a bacterial infection and initiating proper care immediately is important to prevent complications.
Identifying Infection Versus Irritation
Many piercings experience mild redness, slight swelling, and tenderness during the initial healing period. This normal response to trauma may also produce clear or pale yellow lymph fluid, which dries to form a crust around the jewelry. This typical irritation is often mistaken for infection but usually resolves with consistent aftercare.
A true bacterial infection presents with distinct, concerning symptoms that extend beyond the immediate site. Signs include intense, throbbing pain, localized heat, and significant swelling that may spread outward. The most telling sign is the discharge of thick, opaque pus, typically yellow, green, or dark in color, often accompanied by a foul odor. Red streaking radiating away from the piercing site is a serious sign requiring immediate attention.
Step-by-Step Infected Dermal Piercing Care
The first step in addressing an infected dermal piercing is to thoroughly wash your hands using soap and water before touching the area. This prevents the introduction of additional bacteria into the wound. The only recommended cleaning agent is a sterile saline wound wash, which must contain 0.9% sodium chloride and purified water as the sole ingredients.
The piercing should be cleaned two to three times daily to manage the infection. Instead of scrubbing, which can damage new tissue, gently irrigate the area by spraying the saline solution directly onto the piercing. Alternatively, use a clean gauze pad saturated with the sterile saline to perform a warm compress or soak for 5 to 10 minutes.
After cleaning, dry the area completely to discourage bacterial growth. Use a clean, disposable paper product, such as a paper towel or non-woven gauze, and gently pat the site dry. Avoid using cloth towels, which can harbor bacteria and snag on the jewelry, causing further trauma.
Treatment Mistakes That Worsen Infections
Many common household products should be avoided entirely, as they cause significant irritation and slow the healing process. Harsh chemicals such as rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and iodine are too aggressive for a healing puncture wound and can kill the healthy cells needed to fight infection. Applying topical antibiotic ointments or creams, such as those containing petroleum jelly, is also discouraged because they trap moisture and debris, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply.
Another common mistake is attempting to rotate, twist, or remove the jewelry. Manipulating the jewelry can push bacteria deeper into the tissue, potentially sealing the infection inside the piercing channel and leading to an abscess. Removing the jewelry may also cause the site to close up, trapping the infection and requiring a medical professional to reopen it for drainage. Mixing your own sea salt solution at home is not recommended, as achieving the correct, non-irritating 0.9% saline ratio is difficult.
When to Consult a Medical Professional
While minor infections can sometimes be managed with diligent home care, certain signs indicate the need for immediate medical intervention. Contact a healthcare professional if you develop systemic symptoms such as a fever, chills, or generally feel unwell, as these signs suggest the infection is spreading beyond the local area. Any red streaking that extends away from the dermal piercing site is a serious indication of a spreading infection that requires prompt medical evaluation.
If the swelling is so severe that the jewelry appears to be embedding into the skin, or if the infection does not show signs of improvement after 48 hours of consistent cleaning, seek professional help. A doctor can properly diagnose the infection and prescribe oral antibiotics, which are often necessary to clear a dermal infection. If the jewelry needs to be removed to treat an abscess or systemic infection, this must be done by a medical professional to ensure the area is properly drained and treated.