Ensuring proper piercing aftercare during the healing phase is a must for piercing enthusiasts.
Despite the wide availability of commercial piercing aftercare products, there is a growing interest among some individuals in exploring natural alternatives: mānuka oil.
What Is Mānuka Oil?
Mānuka oil is sourced from the leaves of the mānuka tree, which is indigenous to New Zealand. It has garnered acclaim for its remarkable therapeutic attributes, particularly its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
These characteristics make mānuka oil exceptionally effective for the healing and aftercare needed for piercings.
While mānuka oil has been generally employed for addressing various skin issues, it has also made its mark in the world of piercing aftercare as a natural alternative to harsh ingredients.
Mānuka Oil Piercing Aftercare Benefits
Mānuka oil is an excellent alternative for individuals who are either allergic or unable to use tea tree oil or require a more potent solution for piercing aftercare concerns.
East Cape mānuka oil is significantly stronger than tea tree oil, yet it is gentle on the skin. Read more about mānuka oil vs tea tree oil here.
It not only reduces healing time but also proves to be more effective in preventing common piercing issues such as:
- Slow healing
- Discolouration
- Swelling
- Piercing bumps (also known as hypertrophic scars)
- Topical cysts
- Keloids
Natural Antibacterial Properties
Mānuka oil’s exceptional antibacterial properties can help prevent infections in the piercing area, reducing the risk of complications during the healing process.
Promotes Faster Healing
The anti-inflammatory nature of mānuka oil can aid in reducing swelling and redness, allowing your piercing to heal more quickly and comfortably.
Reduces Inflammation and Redness
Mānuka oil’s soothing qualities can alleviate discomfort and irritation associated with new piercings, making the healing process more pleasant.
Why Use a Natural Oil vs Chemical-Based Products?
Using a natural piercing healing oil instead of a chemical one has several advantages:
- Safety and Hypersensitivity: Chemical preparations like numbing cream, Hydrocortisone, and saline solutions may contain components to which some individuals are hypersensitive. Natural oils, like mānuka oil, are generally well-tolerated and suitable for a broader range of users.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Chemical ointments may not be advised for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks. Natural oils, on the other hand, are often considered safer alternatives.
- Skin Breathing: Excessive use of antibacterial creams or ointments may hinder the skin’s ability to breathe. This can be counterproductive for healing, as oxygen needs to reach the wound for optimal recovery.
- Effectiveness and Speed: Natural oils like mānuka oil have been shown to promote faster healing and improvement in the condition of piercings.
- Overall Well-being: Maintaining good overall health through a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and moderate alcohol consumption can contribute to quicker piercing healing. Taking daily vitamins, particularly zinc and vitamin C, can support the wound healing process by regulating inflammation and immune defence.
Using Mānuka Oil for Piercings
Step 1: Ensure Cleanliness
Wash hands with soap and water before applying mānuka oil. This step is essential to prevent introducing any bacteria to the piercing area.
Step 2: Dilute Mānuka Oil
Mānuka oil is highly concentrated. Therefore, it is important to dilute it with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil. Mix a few drops of mānuka oil with the carrier oil to create a mild solution.
Step 3: Gently Apply
Using a cotton swab or clean fingertip, apply the diluted mānuka oil mixture to the piercing. Be gentle and avoid excessive pressure, as the piercing area can be sensitive.
Step 4: Allow Absorption
Allow the oil to absorb into the skin around the piercing. Rinsing it off is optional.
Safety Precautions
- Perform a patch test before using mānuka oil to check for allergies or adverse reactions.
- If any negative reactions occur, discontinue use immediately.
- Keep the piercing area clean and avoid unnecessary touching.