Why Does My Piercing Smell Funky? Common Causes and Solutions

Discover why your piercing might emit a funky smell and learn effective cleaning tips to maintain hygiene.

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A funky smell from a piercing is usually due to a buildup of dead skin cells, sebum, and bacteria. To address this, clean the area regularly with a saline solution and avoid touching it with dirty hands. Also, make sure to rotate the jewelry gently to prevent blockages. If the smell persists or there are additional symptoms like pain and swelling, it could be an infection, and consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.

FAQs & Answers

  1. How often should I clean my piercing? It's recommended to clean your piercing daily with a saline solution to prevent any buildup of bacteria.
  2. What are the symptoms of an infected piercing? Symptoms may include persistent odor, redness, swelling, pain, or discharge from the piercing site.
  3. Can I use alcohol to clean my piercing? No, alcohol can be too harsh and irritate the skin; saline solution is a better choice.
  4. Is it normal for a new piercing to smell? Yes, a slight odor can be normal due to healing, but it should not be strong or unpleasant.