Tattoos and piercings are widely considered as primary forms of body art. Creative alterations like these on the body make it the perfect outlet for exhibiting freedom of expression. Back in the early ages however, tattoos were mostly found amongst chiefs and leaders of tribes. People had to work their way into earning the right to have tattoos. Also, the only body part people pierced before was the ears. Now, you can have your bellybutton, tongue, or even your nose pierced if you like.
We live in a time where piercings and tattoos are almost everywhere. Tattoos, for one, can be applied everywhere in the body with an infinite choice of designs you can pick from. From your tongue to the navel, there’s also a wide array selection of piercing parts. However, choosing to undergo this alteration also means putting yourself at risk, as it is one price you have to pay.
Getting a tattoo or a piercing is a big personal decision to make. Should you wish to carry on, there are few tips you can adhere to in order to ensure the procedure you’ll undergo through will be as safe as possible.
Visit a known establishment
Ensure that the tattoo parlor or the piercing shop you’re visiting follows rigorous guidelines on hygiene. Any procedure which requires breaking the skin carries the risk of introducing bugs and other bacteria into the body’s blood stream, which is why it is essential to put your trust into a place whose people know what they are doing.
Make sure to disinfect wounds
The area upon which the procedure is carried out must be kept clean at all times. Ensure that there’s a skin disinfectant which contains ample amount of alcohol or chlorhexidine around so you can clean that particular area of the body before and after the process. This is to be continued ideally until the wound is healed.
Be vigilant about tools and equipment
Pre-packed sterilized needles are only to be used once before they have to be thrown away. Reusing needles is strictly a no-no as it heightens possible contamination of various bacteria and diseases through blood transfusion. In the same manner, leftover tattoo ink must also be discarded. It pays to be vigilant upon the tools used during the process if you want to decrease any risks of a potential health hazard.
Seek immediate medical attention, if necessary
Take note if the new piercing turns red and sore. Usually this is an indicator that the skin is infected, hence it is always urged to remove said earring/stud immediately and seek medical attention as soon as possible. The longer you’ll prolong and wait for it to heal on its own, the more it’ll likely worsen. In case of infection, do not attempt to replace the accessory until you ensure that the infection has completely healed.