Who doesn't like some form of body art, but one must make sure it's safe and hygienic. Here's a checklist of things to do.
1 Do your research: Always make sure that you dig out enough information about body piercing and choose a reputed place to get your body piercing done. It’s safe to go for a reputed place even if you have to shell out a bit more because at least you can be assured of the hygiene of the place and that they follow the right process.
2 Time it well: Make sure you get your piercing done when you are healthy, well-rested, and mentally ready for the piercing. Don’t forget to tell your piercer about any existing medical condition of yours and also take consultation from your doctor before going ahead.
3 Go for hypoallergenic jewellery: Choose your jewellery with utmost care. Look for metals such as platinum, palladium or titanium that are least likely to cause allergic reactions.
4 Hygiene is important: Make sure your piercer maintains a hygienic environment and wears gloves during the procedure. His piercing instruments (needle) should be properly sterilised. And you should make sure that the piercer uses a one-time usable needle.
5 Be well informed: Keep yourself updated with all the do’s and don’ts of the pre and post procedure and strictly stick to them.
6 After effects: Immediately see a doctor if the piercing gets seriously infected and doesn’t clear up within a few days of proper care and/or you get abscesses or boils, scarring and inflammation.
6 After effects: Immediately see a doctor if the piercing gets seriously infected and doesn’t clear up within a few days of proper care and/or you get abscesses or boils, scarring and inflammation.
(With inputs from Dr Kuldeep Singh, Plastic Surgeon, Apollo Hospital)