Smoking after getting a snake eyes piercing (a horizontal tongue piercing near the tip) can be risky and might interfere with the healing process. It’s important to understand the potential issues and take proper precautions if you choose to smoke. Here’s a detailed explanation to help you care for your piercing while minimizing risks.
Can You Smoke After a Snake Eyes Piercing?
Yes, you can smoke, but it is not recommended, especially during the initial healing period. Smoking introduces harmful substances into your mouth that can slow healing, increase irritation, and raise the risk of infection. To ensure proper healing, it’s best to avoid smoking entirely for at least the first two weeks after getting the piercing.
Why is Smoking Risky After a Snake Eyes Piercing?
- Irritation and Inflammation
- Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that can irritate the fresh piercing.
- The heat from the smoke can cause additional swelling or discomfort.
- Delayed Healing
- Smoking reduces blood flow and oxygen delivery to the piercing site, slowing down the healing process.
- Poor healing increases the risk of complications like infections or prolonged swelling.
- Infection Risk
- Tobacco and other substances in smoke introduce bacteria into your mouth.
- Fresh piercings are open wounds, making them vulnerable to infections from harmful microorganisms.
- Dryness and Sensitivity
- Smoking dries out the tissues in your mouth, which can make the piercing site more sensitive and prone to irritation.
- This dryness can also hinder your tongue’s natural ability to heal.
How Long Should You Avoid Smoking After a Snake Eyes Piercing?
It’s best to avoid smoking for the first 2–4 weeks after getting the piercing, as this is when the healing process is most critical. If avoiding smoking entirely isn’t possible, follow strict aftercare practices to minimize risks.
Tips for Smokers with a Snake Eyes Piercing
- Rinse After Smoking
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash or a saline solution after each cigarette to clean your mouth and reduce bacteria.
- Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and counteract the drying effects of smoking.
- Limit Smoking Frequency
- Smoke less often to reduce exposure to harmful substances and give your piercing time to heal.
- Use a Mouthguard or Protective Cover
- Some smokers find using a temporary mouthguard helpful to shield the piercing from direct contact with smoke.
- Switch to Alternatives (If Possible)
- Consider switching to nicotine patches, gum, or other non-smoking alternatives during the healing period to avoid exposing your piercing to smoke.
What Happens If You Smoke Too Soon?
If you smoke shortly after getting a snake eyes piercing, you may experience:
- Increased swelling and prolonged healing.
- Irritation or pain in the piercing site.
- A higher chance of developing an infection.
- Potential rejection of the piercing due to poor healing conditions.
How to Tell If Your Piercing is Affected by Smoking
Watch for these signs that smoking may be causing problems:
- Excessive Swelling: Beyond the normal amount expected after a piercing.
- Persistent Pain: Pain that doesn’t improve or worsens over time.
- Discharge: Yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge from the piercing site.
- Redness and Heat: Signs of infection or irritation.
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your piercer or a healthcare professional immediately.
Can You Smoke Vapes or E-Cigarettes Instead?
Even though vaping is often perceived as less harmful, it can still irritate the piercing. Vapes and e-cigarettes contain chemicals and heat that may dry out or inflame the piercing. It’s better to avoid all forms of smoking during the healing process.