Navel piercings, also known as belly button piercings, have captivated people for decades as a stylish and versatile form of body modification. Whether you’re drawn to their aesthetic appeal, cultural significance, or their recent resurgence in popularity, understanding the process, care, and risks involved is crucial. This guide covers everything you need to know about healing, aftercare, and managing common risks to ensure a safe and enjoyable piercing experience.
What Is Navel Piercing?
A navel piercing is a type of body piercing performed on the skin around the belly button. The most common placement is the upper rim of the navel, where the jewellery sits above the belly button. However, alternative placements like the lower rim or sides of the navel are also possible.
Is It Right for You?
Not everyone is anatomically suited for a traditional navel piercing. Factors such as the depth of the navel ridge or its shape play a significant role. Professional piercers can assess your anatomy and may suggest alternatives like a “floating navel” piercing if a standard placement isn’t feasible. This method involves placing jewellery in a way that accommodates deeper or smaller navels.
The History and Popularity of Navel Piercings
Ancient Myths and Modern Origins
Despite myths claiming that ancient Egyptian aristocrats wore navel piercings, there’s no historical evidence to support this. The popularity of navel piercings as we know them today began in the 1990s. Supermodels like Christy Turlington and Naomi Campbell brought them into the spotlight, and the 1993 Aerosmith music video “Cryin’,” featuring Alicia Silverstone, solidified their cultural cachet.
Celebrity Influence and Modern Trends
In the early 2000s, stars like Britney Spears further propelled the trend, showcasing their piercings in music videos and live performances. Today, celebrities like Dua Lipa, Miley Cyrus, and Kim Kardashian have reignited the trend, making navel piercings a statement piece once again.
The Piercing Process: What to Expect
Choosing a Professional Piercer
- Why It Matters: A professional piercer ensures safety by following sterilization protocols and using high-quality tools and jewellery.
- What to Look For:
- A licensed shop with positive reviews.
- Sterile needles (never piercing guns).
- An autoclave for sterilizing reusable tools.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Preparation: The piercer cleans and disinfects the area and may shave any hair around the navel for better access.
- Marking: They mark the intended piercing location, giving you the chance to approve or adjust placement.
- Piercing: Using a hollow needle, they create the hole and insert the jewellery. Some bleeding or redness is normal initially.
- Aftercare Instructions: The piercer provides guidance on cleaning and maintaining the piercing during the healing process.
Pain Level and Healing Time
- Pain is typically rated as a 4–5 out of 10, depending on individual tolerance.
- Healing takes anywhere from 6 to 12 months, with the first 6–8 weeks being the most critical.
Aftercare for a Navel Piercing
Essential Aftercare Steps
- Clean Twice Daily: Use sterile saline solution to cleanse the area.
- Dry Properly: Pat dry with disposable paper towels to prevent bacteria transfer.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or scented products.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Do:
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction.
- Protect the piercing with a bandage during exercise.
- Don’t:
- Swim in pools, hot tubs, or open water until fully healed.
- Touch or twist the jewellery unnecessarily.
Common Healing Side Effects
- Mild redness, tenderness, and off-white discharge are normal in the early stages.
- Persistent swelling or foul-smelling discharge may indicate infection and require medical attention.
Common Risks and How to Manage Them
Infection
- Symptoms: Redness, swelling, pus, or increased pain.
- Prevention: Regular cleaning, avoiding contaminated environments, and seeking medical advice if needed.
Rejection and Migration
- Occurs when the body pushes out the jewellery, causing it to shift position or fall out.
- Minimize risks by choosing high-quality jewellery, following aftercare guidelines, and avoiding excessive movement.
Scarring and Long-Term Considerations
- Scars may remain if the piercing is removed or improperly cared for.
- Applying silicone-based scar treatments post-healing can help reduce visible scars.
Choosing the Right Jewellery
Recommended Materials
- Best Choices: Surgical steel, titanium, and 14-karat gold.
- Avoid: Nickel alloys or brass, which can cause allergic reactions.
Popular Jewellery Styles
- Curved Barbells: The standard for new piercings due to their shape and comfort.
- Dangle Styles: Ideal for healed piercings, adding decorative flair.
- Non-Dangle Options: Practical for active lifestyles.
Switching Jewellery
- Wait until the piercing is fully healed (6–12 months).
- For the first change, consider returning to your piercer for assistance.
Unique Perspectives and Trends
A 2022 study revealed that navel piercings often boost self-perception and body image. They can act as a form of self-expression and even help individuals combat self-harming thoughts. As the trend resurges in modern fashion, navel piercings are becoming more than just a style choice—they’re a symbol of individuality.
Practical Takeaways and Final Tips
- Choose a reputable piercer with proper sterilization protocols.
- Commit to consistent aftercare for a safe and healthy healing process.
- Avoid swimming, tight clothing, and touching the piercing unnecessarily.
- Watch for signs of infection and seek medical help if needed.
The Bottom Line
Navel piercings offer a timeless and stylish way to express yourself. By following proper aftercare practices and choosing the right piercer, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding experience. Whether you’re diving into the trend for the first time or re-piercing as part of its modern revival, this guide ensures you’re well-prepared for the journey.
