What do you do about an infected navel piercing? How do you know if it is infected?

Question

I've had a navel piercing for a little over two months now, and no one I know has one so I don't know how it's supposed to look. I think it's infected because someone told me that it should just look like my normal skin around the ring and my skin is darker in that area.

Answer 1

if it was infected it would be really red around it,and probably have puss building up in the actual piercing.
try bathing the infected area in warm salt water,or surgical spirits

Answer 2

Its fairly normal for the skin to darken a bit... sometimes it actually puckers up a little bit. You have to remember that a piercing is the body's forming of a scar... if you have a slightly darker complextion, it will certainly be a little darker.

If the ring or barbell becomes difficult to move, or if the area becomes warm or sore, then you have the beginning of an infection, but probably, it's just your body's normal healing process. It does lighten up over time - think about any of your other scars (scratches, etc.). Overall, it's a great piercing, and I wish you well in completing your healing!

Rob

Answer 3

Is it sensitive around the peircing? It might be slightly sensitive right now, but not too bad yet. If you are worried, go to the doctor and have them check it out. It is better to go in the beginning stages of infection rather than waiting.

Answer 4

You should disinfect it with hydrogen peroxide. This may sting a little, but it will clean the area thoroughly. If the infection (puss) is under the skin, you will have to lance it open. Use a sterile needle. If all else fails, seek medical attention and you will probably get a prescription for an antibiotic.

Answer 5

try peroxide on it and if it dont bubble , it is not infected.
Put some aloe vera gel on the area to clear it up.
neosporin is good also.