Taking care of a snake eyes piercing, which is a horizontal piercing near the tip of the tongue, is essential to ensure proper healing, avoid infections, and maintain overall oral health. This type of piercing requires dedicated aftercare because it is located in a sensitive and bacteria-prone area. Here’s a detailed guide on how to care for your snake eyes piercing:

How to Take Care of Snake Eyes Piercing

1. Follow Aftercare Instructions Provided by Your Piercer

  • Always adhere to the aftercare advice given by your professional piercer. They understand the specifics of your piercing and can provide tailored guidance.
  • Ask any questions before leaving the studio to ensure you’re confident about caring for your piercing.

2. Clean the Piercing Regularly

  • Saline Solution Rinse: Rinse your mouth with a saline solution 2–3 times a day, especially after eating or drinking anything other than water. Saline helps cleanse the piercing and reduce inflammation.
    • To make your own saline: Mix 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt with 1 cup of warm distilled water.
  • Alcohol-Free Mouthwash: Use an alcohol-free and antibacterial mouthwash to clean the area without causing dryness or irritation.

3. Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

  • Brush your teeth gently twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid irritating the piercing.
  • Clean your tongue carefully without moving the jewelry too much.
  • Floss daily to prevent bacteria buildup.

4. Avoid Touching or Playing With the Piercing

  • Refrain from touching the piercing with your hands unless absolutely necessary, and always wash your hands thoroughly before doing so.
  • Avoid excessive movement or playing with the jewelry, as this can cause irritation, slow down healing, or even damage your tongue.

5. Eat a Piercing-Friendly Diet

  • Stick to Soft Foods: During the first few weeks, eat soft, non-irritating foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or soups.
  • Avoid Spicy, Hot, and Acidic Foods: These can irritate the piercing and cause discomfort.
  • Chew Slowly and Carefully: Avoid biting the jewelry accidentally, as it can lead to injuries or swelling.

6. Stay Hydrated

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth clean and hydrated. Water helps flush out bacteria and food particles that could irritate the piercing.

7. Avoid Harmful Habits

  • No Smoking or Vaping: Tobacco products can introduce harmful bacteria and delay healing.
  • No Alcohol: Alcohol can irritate the piercing and dry out your mouth, prolonging the healing process.
  • Avoid Chewing Gum or Sticky Foods: These can tug at the jewelry and cause irritation.

8. Manage Swelling and Discomfort

  • Cold Compress or Ice Chips: Suck on ice chips or use a cold compress to reduce swelling and soothe discomfort.
  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If needed, take a mild pain reliever like ibuprofen to manage pain and reduce swelling.

9. Be Patient During the Healing Process

  • Healing Time: Snake eyes piercings typically take 6–8 weeks for initial healing but may require up to 3 months for complete recovery.
  • Avoid rushing the healing process by prematurely changing the jewelry or skipping aftercare.

10. Monitor for Signs of Infection

  • Check the piercing site regularly for redness, swelling, pain, or discharge.
  • What’s Normal: Mild swelling, tenderness, and a clear or whitish discharge during the first few days are typical.
  • When to Seek Help: If you notice severe pain, persistent swelling, yellow or green discharge, a foul smell, or fever, contact your piercer or a healthcare professional immediately.

What to Avoid During Healing

  1. Touching Jewelry Frequently: Minimizing handling reduces the risk of bacteria transfer.
  2. Sharing Utensils or Drinks: Prevent cross-contamination by avoiding shared items.
  3. Kissing or Oral Activities: Avoid intimate oral activities until the piercing is fully healed to reduce irritation and bacterial exposure.
  4. Changing Jewelry Prematurely: Do not attempt to replace the jewelry until your piercer confirms it’s safe to do so.

Long-Term Care Tips After Healing

  • Continue practicing good oral hygiene to maintain a healthy piercing.
  • Periodically check the jewelry to ensure it’s secure and not causing damage to your tongue or teeth.
  • Visit your piercer for professional advice if you plan to change or remove the jewelry.