How to Care for Belly Bars
There are many different types of jewelery you can wear on a pierced navel, including rings, studs and the ever popular belly bars. Belly bars come in a wide variety of designs, from simple colored bars to elaborate, embellished bars that have jewels hanging from them. No matter which belly bar you have, caring for it has the same rules and guidelines that any navel piercing would have. Until the piercing is fully healed, you shouldn't change the bar, touch it excessively or go swimming without a waterproof bandage covering the bar for protection. There are also a few crucial ways to clean your belly bar to avoid infection. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Cotton swab
- Antibacterial soap
- Non-iodized sea salt
- Water
- Small plastic cup or shot glass
Instructions
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Clean the pierced area with a damp cotton swab before washing it with soap. Use the cotton swab to gently pull away any dried puss or crust that has formed around the piercing to allow proper air flow. Be careful not to snag or pull the belly bar while you do this to avoid irritation.
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Wash your piercing twice a day with an antibacterial soap and warm water. While you wash, gently rotate the piercing so that you effectively cover the entire area with the antibacterial soap. Rinse, pat dry and avoid tight clothing that may restrict air flow and irritate the skin.
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Rid your piercing of possible infection by mixing some non-iodized sea salt and warm water in a small plastic cup or shot glass. Place the top of the cup over your belly button and lay back so that the piercing is completely submerged in the salt water solution. Leave on for 15 minutes before leaning forward and removing the cup.
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Tips & Warnings
Take extra care of your belly bar until it is completely healed, which can take anywhere from four months to a year.
Avoid silver belly bars, as the tarnish can enter the piercing and darken the skin. Instead, opt for implant grade stainless steel jewelery.
