![Although being only one of the two oboe players in the school, freshman Elise Morton said she will continue playing the instrument throughout high school. “[Playing the oboe] makes me feel special because I know Im playing a rare instrument and I love having a challenge because there’s something to improve on and get even better,” Morton said.](https://lancerfeed.press/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Elise-Morton-Featured-Photo.jpg)
In order to express themselves many students have turned to piercing. However, without the appropriate care, these new accessories can turn against you.
To keep your piercing sites healthy, follow these steps.
- According to the Mayo Clinic, you must always wash your hands with antibacterial soap before touching the piercing until the site has healed (which can take anywhere from 6 weeks to a year depending on the location).
- Do not wear tight clothing over the piercing, it can restrict the oxygen flow necessary to heal.
- Gently wash the area with antibacterial soap or saline solution twice a day. Over-washing can cause irritation.
- Avoid using peroxide or alcohol to clean the piercing because they can dry out the skin.
- Do not apply ointments, which don’t allow air to reach the piercing to the area.
- Avoid submerging the piercing in a body of water, such as a hot tub, until healed.
Once the skin is pierced, these care steps must be taken to prevent any infection or complications.
