Stages of healing

The human body and its’ functions can be quite fascinating! This includes the healing and tolerance of most piercings, and even its’ ability to naturally stretch over time with heavier jewellery. We now have the knowledge and ability to personalize our features with shiny adornments better than before – but have you ever wondered exactly how our skin heals?

First, some key points:

  • Piercings heal from the outside-in, meaning they can seem healed from outward appearances well before they are.
  • In general, scar tissue tends to take up to a year or more to fully develop and mature.
  • No two people heal the same! We all have different lifestyles, health conditions, anatomy etc. Timescales are very general and can vary on a case to case basis.

Phase 1 – Hemostasis – Immediately after piercing

Red blood cells and platelets usually work fast to clot the wound. Depending on the placement (such as high movement/contact areas and genitals) this could be delayed/disturbed and you may see some minor bleeding. Holding direct and firm pressure over the wound with clean disposable paper towel should stop the bleed within a minute or two.

Once clotted, a dry scab (or soft scab if inside the mouth) forms around the entry/exit points; usually mixed with a bit of dried blood. Don’t pick or pull at it – it will come off on its own over the course of cleaning!

Phase 2 – Inflammatory/defense – Usually 24-48 hours after

Some mild to moderate swelling is to be expected and may be more noticeable in high movement/touch areas. This happens almost immediately after a piercing but can take a few days or more to fully develop.

Neutrophils flood the area and assist swelling to help protect the wound against any unwanted bacteria or debris.

Your initial jewellery is intentionally sized longer/bigger to accommodate this.

Phase 3 – Proliferative – Usually from 3 – 30 days

Now the body has created a line of defense, new tissue can begin to form. Macrophages produce proteins and other secretions that trigger the immune system to aid in tissue repair and growth. At this point, the epidermis (skin) starts to pull together tightly to begin to close the wound. This is aided by fibroplasts which help to create new tissue connections by contracting and pulling the other edges of the wounds inwards. This is an extremely crucial time during healing and progress should be monitored closely.

Make sure you keep your jewellery in at all times. Many piercings may be downsized around the four week mark (some even sooner!) in the studio with sterile equipment and jewellery during your check up; jewellery charged separately.

Phase 4 – Usually from a few months – 1 year

Collagen fibers reorganize themselves causing minor tissue remodeling.

The piercing stops producing a crust and maturation of the fistula can now begin.

By this time you should have attended your check up and downsize appointments.

Although the majority of the swelling usually subsides in around 6 – 8 weeks for most placements with good aftercare, it’s important to remember the piercing fistula is still fragile.

Finally! Once all stages of healing have taken place and the fistula has matured you’re left with a fully established piercing!

If you haven’t already picked out your perfect jewellery in store or fancy an upgrade, let me know and I’ll be happy to help!