IRRITATION BUMPS 101

Have a pesky bump on your piercing that won’t seem to go away? Check out our guide below to learn what irritation bumps are, how they’re caused, and how to treat them.

WHAT ARE THEY?

When piercings become irritated, they develop a swollen raised area around the piercing site, these bumps are known as irritation bumps. They’re common with cartilage piercings and are typically painful to the touch, pink or flesh coloured and often misdiagnosed as keloids.

WHAT’S THE CAUSE?

  • Anatomy: If the client does not have suitable anatomy or the piercing angle is slanted, and the tissue is being distorted wearing the jewellery.

  • Trauma to the wound: Constant pressure caused by sleeping on or knocking your piercing

  • Improper aftercare: The only aftercare we recommend is a sterile saline solution wound wash/spray. Anything else is too harsh and will cause irritation

  • Incorrect Jewellery: this includes improperly fitted jewellery or changing the jewellery out too early

  • Low-quality jewellery: We recommend internally threaded implant-grade titanium jewellery or solid 14k gold. Both are hypoallergenic and biocompatible meaning it is easier for your body to heal. They’re also nickel-free if you have sensitive skin.

HOW TO GET RID OF THEM

To get rid of an irritation bump, you need first to determine the cause of it and eliminate the issue. Ensure the jewellery you are wearing is properly fitted and of acceptable quality. Then, follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer! There is no quick fix, and different issues require different solutions so it is best to pop into the studio and we can troubleshoot the issue together.