Eyebrow piercings have become a popular form of self-expression. While generally straightforward, these piercings can sometimes lead to infection. Understanding how to recognize and address an infected eyebrow piercing is important for proper healing and preventing complications. This guide provides information on identifying symptoms, initiating home care, and knowing when to seek professional medical attention.
Identifying an Infected Eyebrow Piercing
A healing eyebrow piercing exhibits normal signs. Initially, it’s common to experience mild swelling, some redness, and light crusts around the piercing site. Clear or yellowish lymph fluid may also be present, a normal part of healing. Swelling usually subsides after the first week; some discoloration or hardening of tissue can occur as it mends.
An infected piercing presents distinct, worsening symptoms. Increased pain or persistent tenderness around the site may occur. Redness may intensify, forming a bright red ring, or spread beyond the immediate area. Worsening swelling, swelling that reappears after initial reduction, or heat to the touch also suggests infection.
Unusual discharge, such as thick, yellowish, green, or foul-smelling pus, strongly indicates infection, distinguishing it from normal clear lymph fluid. Other signs include excessive itching, shiny skin, or swollen lymph nodes.
Initial Steps for Home Treatment
Mild to moderate eyebrow piercing infections can be addressed at home with consistent, gentle care. Wash hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching the piercing to prevent contamination. Prepare a saline solution by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt into 8 ounces (250ml) of warm, distilled, or boiled water, stirring until dissolved. Ensure it cools to lukewarm before use.
Soak a clean cotton ball or gauze in the saline solution and hold it over the infected area for 5 to 10 minutes as a warm compress. This helps reduce swelling and encourages drainage. Then, use a cotton swab soaked in the solution to gently remove crusting or discharge around the jewelry. Rinse the area with warm water and pat dry with a clean paper towel, as cotton wool or cloth towels can leave fibers or harbor bacteria. Repeat this two to three times daily.
Avoid practices that hinder healing or worsen the infection. Do not use harsh chemicals like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or unprescribed antibiotic creams, as they irritate skin and delay healing. Avoid touching or moving the jewelry unnecessarily, and do not remove it from an infected piercing. Removing jewelry can close the piercing hole, trapping infection and potentially leading to a painful abscess.
Keep makeup, hair products, lotions, and harsh soaps away from the piercing site. Also, avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water during healing.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While home care can manage mild infections, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. If, after several days of diligent home treatment, your piercing shows no improvement or symptoms worsen, consult a doctor. Spreading redness or swelling beyond the immediate piercing site requires medical evaluation.
Other symptoms requiring a healthcare provider visit include fever, chills, or body aches, as these can signal a systemic infection. A painful abscess or boil, especially if pus is trapped, also requires professional intervention. Persistent or increasing pain, along with thick, green, or foul-smelling discharge, are clear warnings. In rare cases, infection in this area can spread to the eye, making prompt medical care important. A doctor can diagnose the infection and prescribe appropriate treatment, which may include oral antibiotics.
Preventing Piercing Infections
Preventing an eyebrow piercing infection involves consistent aftercare and hygiene. During the two to three-month healing period, maintain regular cleaning of the piercing. Always wash hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching the piercing to avoid introducing bacteria.
Selecting high-quality jewelry materials minimizes irritation and allergic reactions. Suitable options include surgical stainless steel (grades 316L and 316LVM), implant-grade titanium (ASTM F136), niobium, and 14K or 18K solid gold. These materials are less likely to cause adverse reactions than those containing nickel. Avoid physical trauma to the piercing; refrain from snagging or bumping the jewelry, and minimize excessive movement or twisting, as this can irritate healing tissue.
Choosing a reputable piercer reduces infection risk. A professional piercer uses sterile equipment, like autoclaves and single-use tools, and wears fresh gloves during the procedure. They also provide guidance on proper piercing placement and detailed aftercare instructions, contributing to a smoother healing process.