The hole truth

The hole truth
Kansas City Star, MO

Savannah Leonard was 16 when her best friend got her tongue pierced. Immediately fascinated, she thought, “Hey — I could get a facial piercing that wouldn’t look tacky because I’d just keep my mouth shut!”

Several years later Leonard still likes the notoriety of looking a bit different. She works at a drugstore, serving an elderly clientele. “I’ll be talking to them, and they’re like, ‘What is that in your mouth!’” If they only knew. “Once I turned 18, I went all out. I’ve got them everywhere now. Piercings are addictive.”

However, anyone contemplating any piercing beyond the traditional earlobe or two should consider the possible dangers and downsides:

â–  Know the risks. Any time the skin is punctured, there is a risk of infection. Contaminated equipment can transfer serious blood-borne diseases, including HIV. Or you may have an allergic reaction to the piercing jewelry metal. A tongue piercing can lead to chipped teeth or gum damage; plus, body piercings invite bacteria that can lead to scarring or deformities.

■ Know your piercing studio. Piercing is not something your friends can do for you at a slumber party. Choose a reputable studio that is clean and uses an autoclave (a heat sterilization machine regulated by the Food and Drug Administration) and new, sterile needles. The piercer must wash his or her hands and put on a fresh pair of latex gloves for each procedure. Don’t allow a piercing gun; it can’t be autoclaved and it also crushes your skin during piercing, causing more injury.

■ Know the proper follow-up care. With oral piercings (tongue or lip), use an antibacterial, alcohol-free mouth rinse for 30 to 60 seconds after meals while your piercing heals. Also, use a new soft-bristled toothbrush. With skin piercings (nose, ears, eyebrows, navel, wherever), rinse the site in warm water and use a cotton swab to remove any crusting. Apply a dab of liquid medicated cleanser, gently turning the jewelry back and forth to work the cleanser around the opening. Avoid antibiotic ointments, which keep oxygen from reaching the piercing. If you’re not ready to commit to regular and thorough cleaning and care, you’re not ready for this kind of piercing.

■ Know your own mind. “Ask yourself why you want to do this,” Leonard advises. “Is it because half your school has it done, or do you really want a piercing? Do it for yourself, not for other people. Trends can change the next day, and you’re out of luck.”

Source: .com/ health/tattoos-and-piercings /MC00020