Q: I've seen people get dermal studs in their ring finger instead of wedding rings. I think it's so unique and I'm seriously considering getting it done. I am concerned with possible complications though. Is it a bad idea? -Valeria
A: So glad you asked this question before making a decision! This particular look has picked up a lot of traction on social media and is a fantastic example of a great-looking mistake. It absolutely does look awesome, but it is almost certain to end in disaster. Your hands come into contact with so much over the course of a day that is nearly impossible to keep a piercing on one clean. This means that the risk of infection is already exponentially higher than it would be on any other place on your body. Also, there is so little tissue on the fingers and so much movement of the area that the dermal, a modification already known as a “long-term temporary” piercing because of the incredibly high rate of rejection, is pretty much guaranteed to reject quickly. And of course, because of how much we use our hands, you are almost certain to knock or snag the end of the dermal, potentially ripping it out entirely. Don’t be sucked in by the pretty pictures, this one is sure to end in disaster and if you really have to have the look, you can emulate it with a small rhinestone and some eyelash glue or simply get your wedding ring tattooed. Best of luck!
Q: How long do you recommend leaving in a nose screw before changing it? Do you suggest using tea tree oil once a day to help it heal quicker? -Dave
A: Normally, one shouldn’t ever change the jewelry of their piercing until it is fully healed. However, it sounds like you were pierced with a nostril screw. If so, you’re kind of in luck because that is not appropriate jewelry for healing a fresh nose piercing. Nostrils should be pierced with flatback labrets. A screw simply allows for too much movement of the jewelry which can lead to issues such as irritation bumps. Your best bet is to go see a piercer (preferably not the one that pierced you with incorrect jewelry) and have your jewelry changed by them. This may set back your healing process some, but it would be worth it in the long run to allow your piercing to heal in a proper manner and avoid issues. As to the second part of your question, you should never, EVER put tea tree oil on your piercing whether it is healed or fresh or irritated or bumpy. Tea tree oil is so strong that it should actually never be put on the skin without being diluted first as it can burn the skin. This goes doubly for a healing piercing which is filled with fragile new cells forming inside. It will not help your piercing heal; it will cause problems instead. If you are noticing irritation bumps, it is likely from the jewelry you were pierced with, and they can be resolved simply by changing that jewelry. On average, a nostril piercing takes about six months to fully heal. Happy piercing!
Disclaimer: Body Candy is only here to give you fun and helpful advice and information when it comes to getting pierced. Always consult a professional piercer to make sure a new piercing is right for you!