Introduction
Industrial piercing is a type of body modification which involves two holes closed by one barbell. As a daring look that has turned into quite possibly the most famous types of body art around the world, getting an industrial piercing isn’t something you can do without prior research. In this post, we will cover all the basics of this type of piercing, which involves a few steps, from the process to the aftercare.
What is Industrial Piercing?
This type of piercing is usually done in the upper part of the ear with the cartilage; it is referred to either as an industrial piercing or scaffold piercing and it involves two holes whereby there is a single, long barbell passing through them. Unlike the normal ear piercings which are normally placed towards the lobe, the industrial piercing is a complicated one in the cartilage. More tattoos and piercings itself can be changed according to the design of the barbells and the type of the jewelry.
An industrial piercing is an ideal way to add some spice in a relationship among other uses; this therefore calls for some level of preparation and knowledge on the process.
Here’s what you should expect:
Preparation
As with any other type of piercing, you will be asked to go through a consultation with the piercer, before an industrial piercing can be done on you. This is the time during which you will address your expectations, the point of the body where you want the piercings to be done and any issues you may have. The piercer is also going to make sure that you are suitable for this type of piercing.
Piercer’s Marking
After this, the piercer is likely to use a pen or a marker to draw on your ear where he or she intends to make the two holes. This assists in enhancing accuracy and balance of the parts of the concept.
Piercing process
The common method used to perform piercing is through piercing the cartilage with the help of a needle and passing a needle through the flesh till it comes out from the other side. When getting an industrial piercing, the piercer creates two individual holes in the upper ear that is bridged by the barbell. The procedure is not very lengthy but it can be unbearable especially because the cartilage is fairly hard.
Inserting the Barbell
After the required holes are drilled the piercer will then thread the barbell through the two holes. It really should be a rather tight and secure connection but not one that is too tight thus causing discomfort. Your piercer will also instruct you on how to take care of the pierced area so that it can heal well.
Aftercare for Industrial Piercing
It is imperative that you get aftercare right if you want your industrial piercing to heal right and with minimized risk of potential complications.
Here are some essential aftercare tips:
Hygiene
During the healing process, the FDA suggests that you clean the piercing area with a saline solution or a non-alcoholic, non-fragranced solution that was recommended by the piercer. It is not recommended to use rubbing alcohol, isopropyl alcohol or hydrogen peroxide because they cause too much irritation to the piercing.
Do Not Touch Piercing
Do not touch the ring with your hand unless the hand is clean and this will slow the spreading of bacteria. Avoid twisting, turning or poking at your new piercing except when cleaning it and your hands should be clean always.
Don’t Swim
To be safe you should not swim in pools, hot tubs or any water while you are healing your piercing. Such an environment could bring in bacteria’s or elevate the chances of an individual being infected.
Clothing and Accessories
One has to be very careful with the type of clothes and accessories that they wear since they can easily rub on the piercing. Blouses should be worn loosely over the area to minimize the pressures that can aggravate the condition; also do not wear headbands or hats that can chafe the area.
Watch for Infection Symptoms
It is important to watch out for symptoms of infection such as increased redness, irritation or pus formation. Any of these symptoms, you should go to your piercer or a doctor for further recommendation.
Potential Risks and Complications
Any kind of piercing contains certain risks and possible adverse effects, the same can be said about industrial piercing. Being aware of these can help you take preventive measures:
Infection
This is arguably one of the most frequent incidents that are related to impact industrial piercing. Signs may manifest in the form of inflammation, skin redness and formation of pustules. Therefore, the guidelines that should be followed to enhance proper aftercare include, as much as care is taken during surgeries and other body procedures, certain standards should be observed to prevent formation of infections.
Keloids
Some people may end up having keloids that are formed around the area where the piercing was made. It would be wise that if you have a past experience with formation of keloids, you should talk to your piercer regarding the industrial piercing.
Unwanted Marks
Some clients develop piercing bumps which are also called hypertrophic scarring in the process of healing. These are mostly lumps which are normally not dangerous though they may cause considerable discomfort. If you find that you have shooting humps, you should go to your piercer for information on the right treatment for the skin.
Choosing the Right Jewelry
The type of jewelry you prefer for industrial piercing will depend on the size and design as well as the number of rings you would like for the piercing. Here are some tips for selecting the right jewelry:
Material
Choose surgical grade stainless steel, titanium or gold since they do not cause skin rashes and irritation. Do not use cheap or low quality jewelries because they prove to be a challenge especially when healing.
Barbell Length
The length of the barbell has to be properly suited for the anatomy of the ear. However, you should consult your piercer so that he or she guides you into choosing the right size that fits well.
Design and Style
Select your design of your choice from the themes that appeal to you. In fact, there are numerous designs ranging from the traditional timeless styles to the modern complex complicated ones. Make sure that the jewelry you are going in for is alright to be used for the piercing that you have had done and is not going to be causing you any kind of discomfort.
Healing Time and Maintenance
This is a process that may take half a year to one year or even more depending on each individual’s body response to the piercing. During this period, pain, discomfort and other aftercare instructions should be followed and the person has to give time to his recovery. Follow-up consultation with your piercer will assist in identifying whether or not your piercing is healing properly.
Conclusion
Industrial piercing is an unconventional approach to body jewelry, which can bring lots of positive emotions, if done properly and with proper care. Reading through this article, you will be able to keep to the right track of industrial piercing and be proud of your new body style.
The type of jewelry used also has the biggest impacts on the comfort of your industrial piercing and the aesthetics too. There is nothing as frustrating as getting a piercing only for the material of the barbell to irritate your piercing or the barbell being way too long for your piercing.
All in all, getting an industrial piercing can make a statement and fit perfectly into your other body modification choices. It represents risk taking and an action ready to adopt a unique presentation. Just like other body modifications, the decision and choices for the piercing should be well thought of and carefully done in order to gain all the advantages that can be gotten from the form of body modification. For anyone from the newcomer to the connoisseur, the process of an industrial piercing is one that can be very fulfilling assuming that art, fashion, and an important symbol can go together as one unique creation.
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