An industrial piercing, also known as a scaffold piercing, involves two separate holes in the upper ear cartilage connected by a single, long piece of jewelry, typically a straight barbell. This distinctive piercing style requires diligent care from the outset to ensure proper healing and to mitigate the risk of complications, particularly infection. Given that it passes through cartilage and involves two entry points, industrial piercings can be more susceptible to issues compared to other ear piercings.
Recognizing Infection Signs
Distinguishing between normal healing and infection is important. A new industrial piercing often exhibits mild redness, some swelling, slight warmth, and may produce a clear or whitish discharge that can form a crust. These are common reactions as the body adjusts to the new presence of jewelry.
Infection signs are more severe and persistent. These include redness that spreads beyond the piercing site or intensifies, swelling that increases or lasts for more than a week, and throbbing pain that worsens rather than improves. Yellow, green, or gray pus draining from the piercing is a clear warning sign, indicating bacterial multiplication. Other indicators include localized warmth, a tender bump, or systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes, suggesting the infection may be spreading.
First Steps for Home Treatment
If you suspect your industrial piercing is infected, initiating home care promptly can help manage minor issues. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the piercing to avoid introducing further bacteria. It is important to avoid removing the jewelry, as this can cause the piercing hole to close and trap the infection inside.
Gentle cleaning with a sterile saline solution is a primary step. You can create a homemade saline solution by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in 8 ounces of warm, distilled, or previously boiled and cooled water. Apply the solution by soaking a clean cotton ball, gauze pad, or lint-free paper towel and gently dabbing it around both sides of the piercing, ensuring all crusting is softened and removed. Repeat this cleaning process two to three times daily.
Applying a warm compress can also aid in reducing swelling and encouraging drainage. Soak a clean washcloth or gauze in warm water, wring out the excess, and gently hold it over the piercing for 15-20 minutes, several times a day. Avoid using harsh chemicals such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antibiotic ointments, as these can irritate the skin, damage healthy cells, and impede the healing process.
When to Consult a Professional
While home care can address minor irritations, certain signs warrant professional medical attention. If symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pain worsen despite consistent home treatment over a few days, it is important to seek a professional opinion. The presence of red streaks radiating from the piercing, significant pain, or the formation of a large, tender abscess are serious indicators.
Systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or body aches signal a spreading infection. In such cases, contact a healthcare provider, such as a primary care physician or urgent care clinic. They can accurately diagnose the infection and may prescribe oral antibiotics to effectively treat bacterial infections. A professional piercer can also offer valuable advice on jewelry assessment and aftercare, but for confirmed or severe infections, a medical doctor is the appropriate contact.
Maintaining Piercing Health
Ongoing attention to your industrial piercing’s health can prevent future infections and promote long-term healing. Continue a gentle cleaning routine with saline solution even after initial concerns subside, as industrial piercings can take several months to a year or more to fully heal. Wash your hands regularly before touching the piercing, and avoid unnecessary manipulation or twisting of the jewelry.
Protecting the piercing from physical trauma is also important. Be mindful of snagging the jewelry on clothing, towels, or hair, especially during dressing or sleep. Using a travel or donut-shaped pillow can help avoid pressure on the piercing while sleeping. Additionally, refrain from submerging the healing piercing in communal bodies of water like pools, hot tubs, or lakes, as these can harbor bacteria that increase infection risk. Ensuring your jewelry is made from biocompatible materials such as implant-grade titanium, surgical stainless steel, or niobium can also minimize irritation.