PIERCING AFTERCARE

Cryptid Studio – Tattoo and piercing studio in Montreal

Proper aftercare is essential for optimal healing and to reduce the risk of complications. Every body is different: these general recommendations can be adapted to your situation. Never hesitate to contact us for personalized advice. We also offer healing check-ups: see our FAQ.

Cleaning solutions

Use a sterile saline solution with no additives.
It is available at Cryptid Studio or at the pharmacy, in the first-aid section, labelled as sterile saline wound wash.

Choose a sterile solution in a pressurized metal can.
Avoid solutions in plastic or glass bottles, as they don’t stay sterile once opened.

Homemade saline solution (if needed)

If you don’t have access to a sterile saline solution, you can make one by dissolving 1/8 to 1/4 tsp (0.75 to 1.42 g) of non-iodized sea salt in 250 ml (8 oz) of distilled water or previously boiled tap water.

A solution that is too concentrated can irritate the piercing.
Store unused solution in the refrigerator in an airtight container for a maximum of 48 hours, then throw it away.

Note: this method carries more risk than using a ready-to-use sterile saline solution.

👉 Saline solution is the only product you need for proper piercing aftercare.

Cleaning instructions

Option 1 – Rinse

Rinse the piercing twice a day by spraying saline solution directly on the piercing, on both sides.

Option 2 – Soak

Once or twice a day, apply a clean medical cotton pad soaked in saline solution to the piercing for 5 to 10 minutes, without pressure.

After cleaning, it is recommended to gently rinse with clean water to avoid drying out the skin. Tip: use the saline solution before your shower.

Drying

Gently pat dry with a clean, disposable product, ideally a medical cotton pad or cotton gauze after each cleaning and after showering.
A clean paper towel can also be used if needed.
Avoid cloth towels, which can harbour bacteria and catch on the jewelry.
Cotton pads are available at the studio or at the pharmacy, in the first-aid section.

General recommendations

Avoid moving the jewelry unnecessarily.
Always wash your hands before touching the piercing.
Don’t use any antiseptic products (alcohol, peroxide, antibacterial soap, benzalkonium chloride).
Don’t apply any cream, ointment, makeup or cosmetics directly on the piercing.
Avoid submerging the piercing in lakes, pools, hot tubs or bathtubs for at least 4 weeks, depending on how your healing progresses.
Take showers rather than baths for at least the first month.
Don’t pick off dried discharge: it will come off on its own in the shower.
Avoid any pressure or snagging.
Keep the jewelry in place for the entire healing period.
See your piercer to downsize the jewelry once the swelling goes down.
Avoid over-cleaning, which can slow healing.
Make sure your bedding is clean.
Avoid stress and excessive nicotine, alcohol or caffeine.

Planning your next project? Discover our piercing services in Montreal and ear styling. For a tattoo, see our tattoo aftercare instead.

Placement-specific care

Ear cartilage

(Helix, flat, conch, tragus, rook, daith, industrial, etc.)

Don’t sleep on the pierced side, even if there is no pain.
Avoid headphones, headbands or masks that put pressure on the ear.
Downsizing the jewelry once the swelling has gone down is essential to prevent migration.

Nipple

Avoid tight clothing and sleeping on your stomach for the first month.
Avoid lace or mesh fabrics that could catch on the jewelry.

Bridge and eyebrow

Because these piercings are close to the surface, rejection is always possible.
Keep movement, pressure and snagging to a minimum.

Navel

Avoid sleeping on your stomach for at least one month.
Avoid high-waisted pants, shapewear, corsets or any clothing that puts pressure on the piercing.
Rejection is possible: watch for signs of irritation and contact us if you suspect rejection.

Surface piercings and surface anchors (microdermals)

These piercings need regular care for as long as you have them, since material can build up under the top of the jewelry and cause irritation.

Rinsing with saline solution and/or in the shower can help remove residue under the jewelry top.
Avoid applying makeup directly on the area, even after healing.
Even with proper care, surface piercings and dermal anchors are generally less permanent than other types of piercings.
Rejection can happen at any time, even after the initial healing period.

Genital piercings

Maintain gentle personal hygiene with a fragrance-free soap and rinse thoroughly with clean water.
In most cases, sexual activity can resume when you feel ready, as long as it is gentle and trauma-free during healing.
Use barrier protection (condoms, dental dams) to avoid contact with other people’s bodily fluids, even in a monogamous relationship.
Use clean, disposable barriers on sex toys.
Choose a water-based lubricant from a new container; don’t use saliva.
An extra saline rinse or soak after sex can be beneficial.
Avoid cycling or motorcycling for the first few weeks, as pressure and vibrations can lead to complications.
Some genital piercings may bleed freely for the first few days; this is normal.

Oral piercings (tongue, lips)

Rinse your mouth with saline solution or an alcohol-free mouthwash up to four times a day, including once at bedtime. For that last rinse, use saline solution.
After eating or drinking anything other than water, rinse your mouth with drinking water for about 20 seconds.
For the first three weeks, avoid alcohol, which can slow healing considerably.
Tobacco makes healing more difficult. If you choose to smoke, rinse your mouth after each cigarette.
Avoid oral and genital contact (French kissing, oral sex) and sharing utensils or glasses for the first three weeks.
Use a new toothbrush after your piercing.
See your piercer to downsize the jewelry as soon as the swelling goes down. Jewelry that is too long can be uncomfortable and damage your teeth or gums.
Avoid talking or moving the jewelry more than necessary.
All oral piercings carry risks for oral health, such as gum recession or tooth erosion. Regular dental check-ups are recommended.

Contact

For any questions about our policies or your appointment, feel free to contact us.
You can reach us every day by phone, email, Instagram or Facebook.