Soap

A cleansing agent.

Many people choose to clean their piercings with an antibacterial soap (such as Dial), but this is widely regarded as unnecessary. Regular soaps work just as well. Salt soaks are often preferred, and won't irritate or dry the piercing as will many soaps.

Shannon adds: When choosing a soap, you should look for a soap that's as plain as possible—perfumes and moisturizers, especially those found in less expensive soaps can irritate a piercing and lengthen healing times. In addition, when cleaning a piercing, make sure that you don't leave soap (or shampoo) residue inside the piercing.

See Also

• Aftercare
• Satin
• Provon
• Tattoo Goo Soap