To make a salt solution, combine 1/4 teaspoon (1. 2 ml) of non-iodized salt with 8 ounces (237 ml) of boiling water. Stir to dissolve the salt, and let it cool. Don’t increase the salt content, as this could irritate your mouth.

Always wash your hands thoroughly before cleaning or touching your piercing. Don’t clean the piercing with soap more than once a day.

Be gentle while brushing, so that you do not irritate the piercing. [2] X Expert Source Karissa SanfordBody Piercing Specialist Expert Interview. 29 October 2019.

Ice cream Yogurt Pudding Cold foods and drinks that soothe and help keep swelling. Don’t use chewing gum until your piercing heals.

Alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, and drugs Sticky foods, including oatmeal Hard food, candy, and gum Spicy food Salty foods Chewing on non-edible items, such as your fingers, pencils, and pens.

Oral sex and kissing Sharing food, drinks, and utensils Licking your piercing or playing with it with your tongue or fingers Rigorous activity and physical contact involving the face

Keep the area around the piercing free of makeup, cosmetics, and facial creams or lotions.

Leave the jewelry in if you suspect an infection, but seek medical attention immediately. [9] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source

Your lip piercing won’t heal properly if you are allergic to the jewelry, so go to the doctor immediately if you suspect an allergy. If you can’t wear necklaces, earrings, rings or bracelets containing nickel, you won’t be able to wear it in your lip, either. Look for jewelry labeled “surgical steel” or “nickel free. ” In addition to nickel, some people may be allergic to copper or brass. These 3 base metals cause the majority of allergic reactions to jewelry.