Ashley piercing is a unique type of labret piercing that passes vertically through the center of the bottom lip, exiting inside the mouth. This placement means the jewelry interacts with both external skin tissue and the internal, highly vascular oral mucosa. Because it crosses this dual barrier, a meticulous and consistent cleaning regimen is required to manage the elevated risk of complications during the several-month healing period. The body’s ability to heal this channel depends directly on keeping the area free from food particles, bacteria, and irritating chemicals.
Essential Cleaning Solutions and Supplies
The foundation of proper piercing aftercare relies on using appropriate, non-abrasive cleaning agents that support the body’s natural healing process. The primary material for external care is a pre-packaged, sterile saline solution specifically formulated for wound wash. This isotonic solution mimics the body’s natural fluids and helps flush the wound channel without causing cell damage. Look for ingredients that list only pharmaceutical-grade water and 0.9% sodium chloride, ensuring the product is free of unnecessary additives.
For the internal side of the piercing, a non-alcoholic mouth rinse is the appropriate choice. Traditional alcohol-containing mouthwashes can severely irritate the delicate oral tissue and disrupt the mouth’s microbiome, slowing the repair process. Avoid petroleum-based ointments or thick creams, as these trap bacteria and prevent the wound from receiving necessary oxygen. Never use harsh agents like hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol, which can damage new skin cells and delay healing.
Step-by-Step External and Internal Cleaning
The cleaning process must address both the outside and inside of the lip separately, typically performed two to three times daily for the initial six to eight weeks of healing. Before touching the piercing, hands must be thoroughly washed with antibacterial soap to prevent the transfer of pathogens to the open wound. This simple step reduces the risk of introducing external bacteria into the channel.
For external cleaning, saturate clean gauze or a paper towel with the sterile saline solution. Gently apply this soaked material to the piercing site for several minutes; this helps soften any dried lymphatic fluid, commonly called “crusties.” After soaking, gently wipe away the softened debris, taking care not to push or pull the jewelry through the fistula.
Avoid using cotton balls or swabs, as the small fibers can catch on the jewelry or shed into the wound channel, causing irritation. Resist the urge to rotate, spin, or move the jewelry during cleaning, which can tear the developing tissue lining and extend healing time. The jewelry should only be moved as necessary to clean the surface of the post.
Internal cleaning focuses on managing the unique environment inside the mouth, which contains numerous bacteria and food debris. After every meal, snack, or drink other than water, the mouth should be rinsed gently with the non-alcoholic mouth rinse for thirty to sixty seconds. This action helps clear microscopic food particles from the back of the jewelry and the internal wound opening, reducing bacterial overgrowth.
Identifying and Addressing Common Irritations
During the healing phase, it is helpful to distinguish between expected healing signs and potential complications. Normal symptoms include mild localized swelling that subsides after the first few days, slight redness, and the secretion of a thin, whitish-yellow discharge (lymph fluid, not pus). These expected signs typically lessen after the first week as the body stabilizes the wound.
Signs suggesting a serious issue, possibly an infection, include severe, throbbing pain, excessive swelling pressing into the jewelry, and the discharge of thick, dark yellow or green pus. A red streak radiating away from the site or a fever require immediate medical consultation. Oral piercings require prompt attention due to the mouth’s high bacterial load and proximity to major blood vessels.
Preventing Irritation
Several lifestyle adjustments are necessary to prevent irritation, which can mimic the beginning stages of an infection. Avoid consuming overly spicy, highly acidic, or very hot foods and beverages, as these chemically irritate the open wound channel. Playing with the jewelry, biting it, or allowing it to rub against the teeth are common causes of irritation bumps and must be avoided entirely.
The use of tobacco products, including smoking and vaping, should be avoided during the initial healing period, as the chemicals and heat impede the body’s repair mechanisms. Once fully healed, periodically check the jewelry for tightness to prevent the ball from coming loose, posing a choking hazard. If symptoms worsen over two days or if a serious infection is suspected, contact a piercer or healthcare professional immediately.