Is It Better to Use a Ring Instead of a Stud for Lip Piercings While Healing?

There are several reasons why it is better to have a lip ring instead of a stud while the piercing is healing. Some of these reasons are cleanliness, proper healing and oral safety. The more you understand about your lip piercing and the importance of having a ring during the healing process, the easier it will be to take care of your wound.

The Process

When you get a lip piercing, the piercer uses a sterile needle and other instruments to put a small hole that will hold a ring right above or below your lip. This process can take several minutes, and some bleeding is expected. The person performing the piercing will tell you the proper way to care for your wound and the importance of good hygiene practices.

Cleanliness

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One of the most important reasons to use a lip ring instead of a stud during the healing process is to keep the piercing clean. An important step is to “gently rinse all of the soap and any crusty scabs, leaving no suds or residue," according to Young Women's Health. Having a ring will make this process much easier, as any crust or residue will be more visible.

Proper Healing

Using a ring rather than a stud for lip piercing allows more skin exposure, creating easier access to the wound for proper care 2. The healing process typically takes between two weeks and six months, and having access to the area will promote proper healing and reduce the risk of infection.

Oral Hygiene

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While your lip piercing is healing, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. Having a ring instead of a stud will allow you to keep your piercing and mouth free of bacteria. Brushing your teeth and using mouthwash will reduce the risk of infection. A lip ring allows cleaning aids to penetrate the wound more efficiently than a stud does.

Considerations

An article in Happy Living magazine states that a new piercing is essentially a new way for bacteria to enter your body 2. Your body naturally tries to protect itself from getting an infection, and you need to help protect it too. Having a ring inserted into the piercing hole instead of a stud will help you reduce the risk of infection. Always follow the instructions of your piercer, and consult a medical professional if infection is suspected.