Stretched piercing
The key to stretching any piercing is time and patience. Your body tissues need time between each stretching stage to heal, and grow new cells. The slower you stretch, the easier and more comfortable it will be – and the further you will be able to go. If you go too far too fast, your skin will tear, which will not only prolong the healing time and expose you to the possibility of infection, but will limit future stretches dramatically.
When using stretching claws/crescents/spikes, or going up a size in jewellery, always lubricate the piercing and insert the jewellery GENTLY. Use minimum pressure, and support the tissues at the back of the ear. A good time to do this is after a bath or a shower, as your skin will be clean and the heat and moisture will cause the tissues to expand and stretch more easily.
The stretching procedure causes microscopic tears in your skin. This leaves it open to bacterial infection, so hygiene is vitally important. Your piercing must be washed gently but thoroughly every day, preferably with antibacterial soap. Remove the jewellery before washing.
There are various problems that can accompany the stretching process. If you should experience redness, rashes, itching, or swelling, please come in to In Skin for advice.
Always use jewellery of high quality, always disinfect it thoroughly before inserting it into your piercing, and never share jewellery with friends.
We hope that this has given you some general hints and tips. If you would like further advice, please don’t hesitate to come in or ring. And please remember to listen to your body, be patient, and be gentle with your piercings.