Getting a new piercing is always exciting, but it comes with responsibilities—especially when it comes to aftercare. One common question people often ask is, “Is chlorine bad for new piercings?” Whether it’s an ear, nose, belly button, or cartilage piercing, understanding how chlorine affects the healing process is key to preventing infections and keeping your piercing looking great.
In this guide, we’ll explore the risks of swimming after a piercing, why chlorine can slow down healing, and simple ways to protect your piercing while enjoying the pool.
Why Chlorine Can Be Risky for New Piercings
Chlorine is used in swimming pools to kill bacteria and keep the water clean. However, it’s also a chemical that can irritate sensitive skin—especially freshly pierced skin that’s still healing. During the piercing healing process, your body is working hard to close the wound and form a protective barrier. Chlorine exposure can interfere with this process in a few ways:
- It can cause skin irritation around the pierced area.
- Chlorine may disrupt the natural healing environment of your skin.
- It can strip away essential oils that help protect your skin.
- Pool water often contains waterborne bacteria, which can still lead to infections if the chlorine levels are not perfectly balanced.
Dr. Melissa Lockwood, a podiatrist and health expert, explains via Healthline that even properly chlorinated pools can harbor bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common cause of swimmer’s ear and other infections.
How Long Should You Wait to Swim After a Piercing?
Healing times can vary based on the type of piercing you have. Here’s a general guideline for healing period guidelines before swimming:
- Earlobe piercings: 6–8 weeks
- Cartilage piercings: 3–6 months
- Navel piercings: 6 months to 1 year
- Nose piercings: 2–3 months
- Eyebrow piercings: 6–8 weeks
If you swim before the recommended time, you increase the risk of piercing infection from swimming due to prolonged water exposure. This is especially true for pools, hot tubs, and even oceans where swimming hygiene practices may not be ideal.
Risks of Swimming with New Piercings
Swimming too soon after getting a piercing can lead to several problems:
1. Infection Risk
Even with chlorine exposure risks, pool water might not eliminate all harmful bacteria. A small open wound like a new piercing is vulnerable to germs that thrive in moist environments.
2. Irritation and Prolonged Healing
Chlorine and chlorinated water can cause redness, dryness, and itching. This irritation can delay your piercing healing process, making it take longer than expected.
3. Keloids or Bumps
Exposing your piercing to harsh chemicals too early could increase the chance of developing small bumps or keloids around the piercing site.
4. Inflammation and Swelling
Constant water exposure softens the tissue, making it harder for the wound to close properly. This can lead to swelling and discomfort, especially in ear piercing swimming precautions.
Can Saltwater Pools or the Ocean Affect Piercings?
Some people believe that saltwater pools or the ocean are safer than chlorinated pools. While saltwater may feel gentler on the skin, it still carries risks. The ocean is full of bacteria and pollutants that can enter the wound. Saltwater pools still contain chlorine (just in lower amounts), so the same risks of swimming with new piercings apply.
Waterproof Bandages for Piercings: Do They Work?
If waiting to swim isn’t an option, using waterproof bandages for piercings can offer some protection. Look for small, breathable waterproof patches that fully cover the piercing site. However, remember:
- Bandages should be tight enough to keep water out but not so tight that they restrict airflow.
- Replace the bandage immediately after swimming.
- Clean the area with saline solution after removing the bandage.
While protective measures for piercings like bandages help reduce water contact, they’re not a guarantee. It’s always best to avoid swimming altogether during the early stages of healing.
Aftercare Tips for Safe Swimming with Piercings
If you absolutely must swim (for example, if you’re on vacation or have unavoidable pool activities), follow these piercing care tips to minimize risks:
- Wait at least the minimum recommended healing time before exposing your piercing to any water.
- Apply waterproof bandages before entering the water.
- Avoid submerging your head if your piercing is on the face or ears.
- Rinse the pierced area thoroughly with clean water and a saline solution immediately after swimming.
- Always dry the area with a clean paper towel—avoid cloth towels that might carry bacteria.
- Stay away from hot tubs and public jacuzzis, as these often have inconsistent chlorine levels and higher bacteria counts.
Chlorine’s Effect on Skin and Piercing Healing
Chlorine’s drying nature not only strips the skin of its natural oils but also disrupts the healthy environment needed for proper healing. For people with sensitive skin, this may cause cracking or peeling around the piercing site. Using piercing aftercare for swimmers like moisturizing saline sprays can help maintain the skin’s balance without introducing harmful chemicals.
The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) recommends avoiding pools, lakes, and hot tubs during the healing time for ear piercings and other types of body piercings to avoid unnecessary complications.
When Is It Safe to Swim Again?
Knowing when it’s safe to swim again depends on how well your piercing is healing. Signs that your piercing is fully healed include:
- No redness or swelling around the area.
- No discharge or crust forming at the site.
- The jewelry moves freely without pain.
- The skin feels smooth and not sensitive to the touch.
Even after your healing time has passed, it’s smart to continue following swimming restrictions after piercing for a few extra weeks if possible—especially if you notice any irritation.
Additional Protective Measures for Piercings
Besides avoiding pools during healing, here are more protective measures for piercings to help ensure smooth recovery:
- Wash hands thoroughly before touching your piercing.
- Avoid harsh soaps or alcohol-based cleaners on the piercing.
- Use saline or sterile wound wash sprays daily.
- Do not twist or move the jewelry excessively.
Final Thoughts
So, is chlorine bad for new piercings? The answer is yes—especially during the early stages of healing. Chlorine and bacteria in pool water can irritate the skin, delay healing, and even lead to infections. While swimming pool safety measures like waterproof bandages help, the safest approach is to wait until your piercing is fully healed.
If you’re unsure about your piercing’s healing progress or have concerns about swimming, always consult your piercer or a healthcare professional. Prioritizing your piercing infection prevention not only keeps your piercing looking its best but also protects your overall health.
Remember, patience is key. Enjoy the water when your body is ready—and your piercing will thank you for it!
