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Let’s talk belly buttons, shall we? No, I’m not joking. Your navel isn’t just for lint collection and ignoring during abdominal workouts. It’s an often-overlooked canvas for personal expression, even in my vibrant world of body art. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricate history and symbolism of belly button piercing scars and the curious aesthetics they bring along.
It’s no secret that both tattoos and piercings have deep-seated roots, dating back to antiquity. While they’ve evolved considerably over time, these forms of body modification still carry a cornucopia of meanings, influenced by culture, art, and personal significance. The navel piercing, for instance, isn’t just a frivolous fashion statement—it’s an intriguing tapestry woven with threads of cultural identity, rebellion, and individuality.
How Do Belly Button Piercing Scars Happen?
Let’s dive into the top three causes behind the birth of belly button piercing scars: trauma, infection, and pregnancy. Knowledge is power, so let’s arm ourselves.
Trauma
Your new bling catches onto your shirt, bedsheets, or even worse, your over-enthusiastic puppy’s claw—ouch! Such traumas, especially during the healing phase, can result in scarring. This is a story that athletes and fitness enthusiasts might find particularly relatable. Our bodies are constantly moving, and that can make the healing process for a new piercing, well, a bit dicey.
Infection
Your mom probably lectured you about this, didn’t she? Infections are indeed painful and downright unpleasant. But what isn’t talked about enough is that they can lead to piercing migration and permanent scarring. When your body goes on a healing spree to ward off the infection, it might leave a parting gift: scar tissue. I learned this lesson the hard way in my early piercing days. Hence, I can’t stress enough the importance of proper aftercare.
Pregnancy
Belly button piercings and pregnancies are a tricky combo. With your belly expanding, the piercing area undergoes rapid changes, often leading to scar tissue and stretch marks. Here’s a hot tip: remove your piercing about 6 months before getting pregnant, and you can always get it re-pierced post-pregnancy.
What Do Belly Button Piercing Scars Look Like?
Ever wondered, “If I do end up with a scar, how bad could it be?” Let’s talk aesthetics.
Hypertrophic Scar
Meet the Hypertrophic Scar, a common result of trauma or infection post-piercing. These raised patches of skin occur due to clustered collagen during the healing process. They are thicker and often redder than the surrounding skin, making them rather noticeable. But fear not, they’re less conspicuous than their notorious cousins, the Keloid scars.
Aesthetics
Your typical navel piercing scar would resemble a small dot above your belly button, sometimes a bit recessed. It might look like a small dark circle, or, depending on the severity, almost like a second belly button—double the belly fun?
How to Prevent Belly Button Piercing Scars
Although a tiny trace of your piercing adventure might linger, you can certainly avoid a scar that screams for attention from a mile away. Here’s how.
Work with a Professional
Always, always go to a certified professional piercer. This isn’t the time to skimp and let an amateur near your skin. Look for someone who works out of a clean facility, uses professional-grade equipment, and is certified by the Association of Professional Piercers.
Be Careful During the Healing Process
Give your piercing its sweet time to heal. Be mindful of your clothing, movements, and anything else your jewelry might get tangled in. Consider planning your piercing around your sporting seasons or intense workout phases to avoid any accidental trauma.
Follow Aftercare Instructions to the Letter
Your piercer will provide you with aftercare guidelines. Treat them as your holy grail. A simple, twice-daily ritual of cleansing with a salt-water solution can go a long way. I personally swear by the After Inked Piercing Aftercare Spray. It’s vegan, free of alcohol and additives, and suits all skin types. Plus, it’s super easy to use, thanks to its mist-spraying bottle.
Proper aftercare can ensure a smooth healing process and prevent potential scarring. Here are some specific tips and product recommendations to help you along:
The Holy Grail: Salt Soaks
Your piercing needs a good soak in saline solution twice a day. You can make your own by dissolving 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in a cup of warm distilled or bottled water. Alternatively, go for pre-made solutions like NeilMed NeilCleanse Piercing Aftercare, a gentle, sterile saline spray that helps remove debris and cleanse piercings.
Keep It Clean
Cleaning the area gently with a mild soap is also necessary. Look for something fragrance-free and hypoallergenic to prevent any potential irritation. Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap is a great option.
Pillow Talk
Remember, your fresh piercing needs to breathe to heal. Try to avoid suffocating it with tight clothing, and when you sleep, consider using a donut-shaped travel pillow to avoid rolling onto your piercing.
Hands Off!
This might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating: don’t touch your piercing unless you’re cleaning it. And always, always wash your hands thoroughly before you do.
No Swim Zone
Try to avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or open water while your piercing is healing. These bodies of water can contain bacteria that could lead to infection.
Quick Healing Power
Consider using aftercare products that promote quick and safe healing, such as H2Ocean Piercing Aftercare Spray. It’s an all-natural sterile solution that’s easy to apply and highly effective.
How to Treat a Belly Button Piercing Scar
Scars may be permanent, but their visibility can be reduced. Here are some strategies to make them less noticeable.
Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil is a fantastic skin softener that can help reduce the appearance of scars. Regularly massaging it into your scar can help lessen its prominence and soothe redness. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a mini pamper session?
Hydrocortisone Creams
These are a handy over-the-counter solution available at most pharmacies. Used for various skin applications, including scar reduction, these creams work by reducing inflammation. Always check with your piercer, pharmacist, or doctor before starting the use of hydrocortisone creams.
Cosmetic Surgery
If everything else fails, there’s the option of cosmetic surgery. While it might sound intense, treating a belly button piercing scar is a minor procedure. And hey, you deserve to feel confident in your skin, so do what makes you feel best!
There you have it, folks—your guide to understanding, preventing, and treating belly button piercing scars. So, ready to make a splash this summer?
Conclusion
In the vibrant world of body art, belly button piercings have held a unique appeal for ages, adding a dash of intrigue to your summer looks. However, like any body modification, it’s essential to make informed decisions. Location, for one, is key. Typically, the piercing is placed through the upper lip of the belly button, creating a stunning visual effect. As for the cost, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $70, a small price to pay for the perfect belly adornment. But remember, every rose has its thorns. Possible side effects range from mild irritation to potential infection or scarring. So be vigilant about aftercare, take heed of advice from your trusted piercer, and stay mindful of your body’s reactions. When treated with care and respect, a belly button piercing can be a fun, safe way to express your individuality and style. Remember, you’re the artist, and your body is your canvas. So, paint responsibly!
