Thanks to celebrities, nipple piercings have gained in popularity. Men and women wear these in singular or pairs, and they’re a sexy little secret just for them. However, to some, the idea of piercing an intimate spot like the nipples makes them instinctively cover up and hold their own at the thought of the pain.
HOW IS IT DONE AND WHAT TO EXPECT
Your initial jewelry for a nipple piercing will be a barbell, because a ring will take longer to heal. Rings move more often, and they don’t allow for swelling. Barbells should be internally threaded, and should be of implant grade stainless steel quality. You can opt for titanium if you have a known nickel allergy and don’t want to risk it.
When you come into the shop, you will be taken to the piercing room, which has curtains for seclusion so your goods aren’t out on display for everyone to see. If you aren’t sure if you’ll be comfortable exposing yourself to a stranger, think of it as a medical procedure (which it is). Our piercers at Emerald Tattoo are professional! If the idea of completely taking off your shirt is too much for you, wear a button up shirt. You will be laid back, and then using a hollow needle, the piercer will tell you to take a couple deep breaths, then pierce the nipple and install the barbell. Most describe the pain as very short lived, so try not to work yourself up too much!
CAN INVERTED OR FLAT NIPPLES BE PIERCED?
Most of the time, yes! It’s best if you come into the shop and have a consult with one of our piercers, though. If you have inverted nipples, a curved barbell could be a better choice since a curved needle would be used to pierce your nipple. The curved needle gives the piercer better access through the nipple, and the curved barbell will help keep the nipple out during healing. If you have flat nipples, but it stands out enough when erect, then you should be able to get it pierced. As stated above, it’s always a good idea to come in and have a consultation if you have any concerns!
HEALING & AFTERCARE
A longer barbell will be used to allow for the swelling that will happen. For females, you should wear a clean soft sports bra at night, and a clean bra during the day. Males should make sure to wear loose fitting shirts. The initial swelling will last about a week, and it can take 9 months to a year for your piercings to completely heal. The best thing you can do to help your piercings along during the healing process is NOT TO TOUCH them! Gently wash them once a day, but that’s it! Intimate nipple play should be held off for at least 4-6 weeks. When it comes to bodies of water and swimming, stick to a simple rule: If you wouldn’t drink it, don’t go in it. The less bacteria that comes into contact with your new piercings, the better.
Aftercare is easy enough when it comes to nipple piercings. Wash them very gently once a day in the shower, and during the day use a sea salt spray on them to clear away any crust build up. Bleeding is normal during the first few days after the piercing is done. You can also do a sea salt soak to help the healing process go by faster.
Mix half a teaspoon of non iodized sea salt into a clean mug of warm water. Pour the salt mixture into a clean shot glass or a smaller mug, and cup over the nipple. Soak it for 5 minutes, then gently pat clean with a disposable paper towel.
FYI –
Signs of an infection include red lines going through your nipple(s), swollen lymph nodes, fever, and the area around your piercing is hot to the touch. If you notice this, go to your doctor right away. If you notice your nipple is swelling more than expected and looks like it might swallow the jewelry, go back to your piercer for longer jewelry right away.
DECORATION
Once you’re ready to change out your jewelry, it’s best to go back to your piercer. Even after a full year of healing, nipples can close up within minutes, so having a professional change it out for the first time is the better option. The are tons of jewelry options, from barbells and captive bead rings, to nipple shields and bent barbells! These piercings can boost your self esteem, add to your self confidence, and be something special just for you…or for someone you want to show them too 😉 Come in today and talk to one of our piercers! It’s $30 for one or $50 for both!
