Managing Pain & Swelling After Lip Piercings: Effective Strategies

Getting a lip piercing can be an exciting way to express your beauty. It not only enhances your facial features but also gives you a trendy look. However, sometimes getting a lip piercing done becomes a nightmare no one thought about. You might get swollen and numb lips that do not go away even after one week of piercing, so it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further complications. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to treat swollen and numb lips.

Recognise the Signs of Infection

It is crucial to understand whether it’s a normal swelling or an infection. The symptoms of infection include:

  • Redness and swelling around the piercing site
  • Pain or tenderness that persists or worsens
  • Yellow or green discharge with an unpleasant odour
  • Warmth around the piercing area
  • Fever or chills in more severe cases

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to take action.

Tips to Prevent Infection:

  • Don’t touch or remove the jewellery

Generally, the piercer recommends not touching the initial piercing as it can introduce bacteria, leading to swelling and irritation. You are only allowed to touch the piercing while cleaning. Moreover, removing the jewellery before it completely heals can cause the piercing to close and allow the infection to spread.

  • Clean the piercing site two or three times a day

Regularly cleaning the piercing site helps flush out the bacteria and prevent further irritation. You can clean the piercing site in the following ways:

  • Saline Solution

You can use a saline solution by soaking a piece of cloth or a paper towel into the solution. Avoid using tissue or cotton because their tiny fibre can get stuck in the jewellery, which can irritate the piercing site. Furthermore, gently wipe the cloth to each side or jewellery and piercing site. Make sure there is no crust on the jewellery or around the area. Repeat the process if needed. Avoid using thin towels or tissues.

Tips to lessen swelling & irritation

Here are a few ways to reduce swelling

  • Make a warm compress by heating a damp towel or any other cloth item in the microwave for 20-30 seconds and applying it to the piercing site.
  • You can use a chamomile compress, as it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help in fast healing. To apply it to the piercing site, boil chamomile teabag in water for five minutes and then let it cool slightly to make it  easier to touch. Then, wrap the tea bag in a paper towel or cloth and apply it to each side of the piercing. Repeat the process if needed. After 10 minutes, rinse the area with warm water and pat it dry.

Note: Before using chamomile, it is essential to do a patch test to know if you are not allergic to it. For that purpose, put a tea bag in warm water for a few minutes, and then apply it inside your elbow and keep it there for three minutes. After that, remove it, make it dry, and then wait for 24 hours. If you see any redness, then that means you are allergic to it.

  • If you have swelling inside the mouth, you can apply cold compresses around the piercing site twice a day.
  • You can also suck an ice or popsicle within the first two days of your piercing.

Ongoing Care

  • Do floss daily

Flossing is one way to clean your mouth daily. It helps remove plaque and debris between the teeth, thus preventing harmful bacteria from reaching your lips. Try to floss after every meal. Moreover, avoid using alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can cause irritation to your new piercing.

  • Avoid Irritants

Stay away from irritants like alcohol, spicy foods, and tobacco products. These can exacerbate the infection and slow down the healing process.

  • Monitor for Improvement

Keep an eye on the infection’s progress. If you don’t see improvement within 48 hours, or if the symptoms worsen, it’s time to seek professional help.

  • When to See a Professional

If the infection does not improve or if you experience severe symptoms like high fever, excessive swelling, or difficulty breathing, consult a healthcare professional immediately. They may prescribe antibiotics or recommend removing the jewellery until the infection clears up.

Tips for Preventing Future Infections

  1. Follow Aftercare Instructions: Always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer to ensure proper healing.
  2. Choose a Reputable Piercing Studio: Ensure a professional does your piercing in a clean, reputable studio.
  3. Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Don’t share lip products, utensils, or anything else that comes into contact with your mouth.
  4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily: Proper hydration and nutrition can support your immune system, helping your body heal more efficiently.

Lip piercings can be a fantastic form of self-expression, but caring for them properly is essential to avoid infections. By following these steps and maintaining good hygiene, you can treat an infected lip piercing effectively and enjoy your piercing without complications. Always seek professional medical advice to ensure your health and safety if in doubt.