Q: I just got a new piercing. What should I avoid after a nose piercing?  - Kelsey J.

A:  Getting a new nose piercing is exciting but the aftercare really matters if you want it to heal well and look good long-term.

First thing: don’t touch it unless you’re cleaning it. I know it’s tempting, but twisting or playing with the jewelry can irritate the area and slow healing. Same goes for letting other people touch it... just don’t! Try to avoid snagging it on things like towels, clothing, or even while washing your face. Be extra careful when drying off or changing clothes. Also, skip swimming for a bit. Pools, hot tubs, lakes, all of it can introduce bacteria while it’s still healing. You’ll also want to hold off on switching out the jewelry too soon. Even if it looks healed on the outside, the inside takes longer, so give it time. When it comes to skincare and makeup, keep products away from the piercing site. Things like foundation, powders, and harsh cleansers can irritate it or clog the area.

Stick with a simple saline cleaning routine, be gentle with it, and don’t rush the process. Nose piercings can take a few months to fully heal, but if you treat it right, it’s so worth it.

Q: My piercing looks angry, should I use an antibiotic ointment on it? - Jamie

A: It’s totally normal for a piercing to get a little “angry” sometimes (like a bit red, sore, or swollen) especially if it’s new or got snagged on something. It doesn’t automatically mean something’s wrong. That said, antibiotic ointment isn’t the move here. It might seem like it would help, but those thick ointments can actually suffocate the piercing and trap bacteria, which can slow healing or make irritation worse.

A better approach is to keep it simple: clean it with sterile saline once or twice a day, keep your hands off unless you’re cleaning it, and try not to mess with the jewelry. Your body usually knows what it’s doing if you give it a clean, low-stress environment to heal. If it starts getting really painful, super swollen, or you notice green or yellow discharge or heat around the area, that’s when it’s worth checking in with a professional piercer or a healthcare provider just to be safe. Good luck!

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!