There are more than 20 different ear piercings, more than 30 facial piercings, more than 20 oral piercings, about 10 common male genital piercings, eight common female genital piercings, and many more uncommon piercings. Besides these, there is a wide array of temporary and speciality piercings such as used for suspension scenes which for the latter require intensive aftercare and highly specialised skill-sets.
For more information about what is available visit an accredited piercing or body art
business. Look for the ‘certificate of registration’ to ensure it is registered with the designated local council.
With all forms of body piercing, the following are recommended aftercare practices:
• Keep piercings dry.
• Always wash your hands before touching the piercing.
• Do not use your fingernails to move the jewellery.
• Do not share jewellery with friends.
• Do not touch or turn the jewellery unnecessarily during the healing process.
• Do not remove the scab as this protects the piercing from infection.
• To help the healing process, apply a mild salt water solution. (¼ tsp of salt to one cup of warm water) twice a day to the pierced area.
• When showering/bathing use an anti- bacterial pump action liquid soap on the piercing site.
• After a shower/bath use a tissue or cotton bud to dry the piercing. Do not use a towel or face washer.
• Do not use any alcohol based cleaning solutions, tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, skin cleansers, antiseptic solutions or cream.
These can dry out the skin and can sometimes result in prolonged healing time.
• Avoid swimming until the piercing has healed as ocean or pool water can pose a risk of infection.
• Using water based lube over genital piercings before rolling on a condom will increase comfort as it allows the jewellery to slide against the latex.
The skin is the largest organ in the human body; its function is to protect us from the environment by keeping out pathogens. If broken skin and non-sterile equipment
or unhygienic practices come in contact, there is a high risk for transmission of blood borne viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
Healing times from piercing will depend on the health of the individual, the location of the piercing, the technique employed, the aftercare undertaken and even
the quality of the jewelry. It can vary from a few weeks to six or nine months.