few simple things that can
reduce the pain.
First, everyday painkillers
such as Tylenol or aspirin
can temporarily relieve
the tenderness. I
recommend taking two
Tylenol every four hours
for the first few days.
Consult a healthcare
professional before using
these painkillers for
longer than a week.
Second, icing your
piercing for the first few
nights will help reduce
swelling and soreness. An
easy way to fit icing in is
to do it when you have
some down time. Ice it
while reading, watching
TV, or relaxing. I always
ice my new piercings for
the initial week or so, and
it drastically reduces
soreness and tenderness.
Third is taking care. As
mentioned previously, be
very cautious with your
new piercing. Be sure not
to fiddle with it, as you
may inadvertently cause
infection, and do your
best to keep it protected
from bumps and hits.
Where Can I Get a
Cartilage Piercing?
Finding a place to get pierced
has never been simpler! Most
tattoo shops offer body
piercings as well. Just inquire
to verify if they will be able
to do a piercing. Some retail
shops such as Claire's— or
others at your local mall—
offer cartilage piercings. Of
course, there are also parlors
that perform only body
piercings.
When choosing a place, go
with your gut instinct and
your personal comfort zone,
but also do your research.
Instead of choosing the
"coolest" or most convenient
place, go wherever you feel
you will get a safe, sterile,
sanitary piercing. Make sure
it is a clean shop with no red
flags such as dirty equipment,