If you are pierced, then you are familiar with the rush that a new piercing can bring! Whether you enjoy the act of getting pierced, or simply enjoy showing off your new bling, new piercings are FUN! What isn't so fun is taking care and healing a new piercing -- it can be a bit of a learning curve.
Among all the info online, one common recommendation is the use of tea tree oil for piercing aftercare. While tea tree oil is known for its antimicrobial properties, its application on piercings is not as beneficial as some might believe! With that being said, let's debunk the tea tree oil myth!
What is Tea Tree Oil?
Tea tree oil, derived from the leave of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, is an essential oil that is know for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Native to Australia, this herbal medicine is a popular ingredient in skincare and natural remedies. However, while beneficial for some conditions, it can do more harm than good for piercings.
The Tea Tree Oil Myth
The myth that tea tree oil can be used in piercing aftercare likely stems from its antimicrobial properties. If tea tree oil can kill bacteria and fungi, then why wouldn't it help prevent infections in a new piercing? WELL! Unlike acne or athlete's foot, new piercings are essentially a puncture wound. How the essential oil reacts to a deep wound is much different than how it will treat a skin condition.
Why Tea Tree Oil is Problematic for Piercings
1. Irritation and Sensitivity
Fresh piercings are open wounds, and the skin in and around them is extremely sensitive. Tea tree oil, even when diluted, can be too harsh for sensitive skin -- leading to irritation and exacerbating inflammation rather than reducing it.
2. Drying Effect
One of the most significant side effects of tea tree oil is its drying effect. While it may seem beneficial to dry out an infected piercings, the reality is that overly dry skin can crack. Cracked skin can create an environment conducive to further infections. Thus delaying the healing process! A healing piercing needs to remain moisturized, not dry and cracked.
3. Potential for Chemical Burns
Tea tree oil, if not properly diluted, can cause chemical burns. The risk of improper dilution is high, especially when following DIY advice from random online sources. Chemical burns can be severe and lead to complications that are worse than the original piercing issue.
4. Lack of Standardization
The concentration of active compounds in tea tree oil can vary widely between different brands and batches. The lack of standardization means that one's positive experience may not be typical, leading to unpredictable results.
Proper Piercing Aftercare
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To ensure that your piercing heals properly, it's crucial to stick to safe and effect practices!
1. Saline Solution
A sterile saline solution is the gold standard for piercing aftercare! It helps gently cleanse without causing irritation of dryness. We recommend our NeilMed's Saline Wound Wash!
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals!
Stay far far FAR away from alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and of course tea tree oil. These substances can irritate the piercings and prolong the healing process.
3. Good Hygiene Practices
Wash your hands before touching you new or infected piercing. Avoid submerging your new piercing in bodies of water, like pools, rivers, and lakes, since they can introduce bacteria.
4. Consult
Piercing still isn't healing right, no matter what you do? Consult your piercing! Whether its an irritation bump, discomfort, pain, or signs of infection, a professional pierce can provided personalizes advice and treatment options.
While tea tree oil might have a place in skincare, it isn't suitable for piercing aftercare. There are safer and MUCH more effective wats to care for your new body mods. Stick to tried-and-true methods like saline solution and professional advice to ensure your piercings heal healthily! Your piercings deserve the best care, free from myths and misinfo!
