Nipple Maintenance

At the end of the two weeks, you should not have to clean your nipple piercing any more. If it looks dry, moisturize your nipple with a regular moisturizer. Remember not to clean even in the shower.

Barbells should not be placed in your nipple until it is certain that your piercing is healthy and stable. Generally, this means at least six to eight weeks with the ring before the change. When a barbell is chosen, it should be properly fitted: too short will constrict the nipple and swelling will result, and to long will make the barbell catch on clothing and injury to your piercing will result. A typical female nipple requires an 8mm to 10mm straight shaft between the balls. Male nipples will sometimes need a 6mm shaft. The best way to fit a barbell is to measure the length and position of you piercing with an accurate pair of calipers. A fitted barbell for your nipple piercing should be straight, not bent, to prevent stress and stretching of the tissue.

Nipples accommodate upgauging well. If larger rings, pendants or nipple play are being considered, the nipples either should be pierced with a 12 gauge, or upgauged to 12 or 10 gauge.