Care

Aftercare

An Ashley heals on the inside and the outside at once, which is what makes aftercare matter. Here is general guidance so you know what to expect. It does not replace your piercer.

The basics

• Wash your hands before you touch it, every time.
• Leave it alone. No twisting, turning or playing with it, however tempting that is. Movement is what slows healing.
• Keep the jewelry in. Do not take it out while it is healing, even to clean it. Removing it early can cause problems and the piercing can start to close.

Keeping it clean

Most piercers recommend a sterile saline solution for the outside, applied gently a couple of times a day, and rinsing your mouth with water or an alcohol free rinse after you eat. Your piercer will tell you exactly what to use and how often, and their instructions win.

Many piercers advise against harsh products on a fresh piercing, such as strong alcohol based mouthwash, hydrogen peroxide or antiseptics, because they can irritate rather than help. Do not use anything like that unless your piercer specifically tells you to.

In the first few weeks

While it settles, piercers commonly suggest going easy on the things that irritate a healing lip: alcohol and smoking, very hot or spicy food, chewing gum, resting the jewelry against your teeth, kissing and oral contact, and sharing drinks, cups or cutlery. Swimming pools and lakes are usually best avoided too. Your piercer will give you the specifics for your situation.

Swelling and downsizing

A fresh Ashley swells, which is why you start on a longer post. Once the swelling has settled and your piercer confirms you are healed, you switch to a shorter length so it sits flat and stays clear of your teeth and gums. This step is called downsizing, and it is the single most important one. See how to change your top and the size guide when you are ready.

How long does it take?

Lip piercings are commonly quoted as healing in the region of six to twelve weeks, but healing is personal, and a piercing can look settled on the outside before it is healed inside. Only the piercer who did yours can tell you where you actually are.

If you are worried

If anything about your piercing concerns you, or it simply does not seem to be settling the way it should, do not rely on a website to reassure you. Go and see your piercer, or a doctor. That is genuinely the right call, and there is nothing dramatic about doing it early.