Can you put an ice pack on a new piercing?

Question

I just got an industrial, and i was wondering if i can put an ice pack on it tonight while i sleep. When cold stuff touches, it like air, it feels better and all.

Answer 1

You can for a little while. It would be best to use a fresh bag of ice each time and maybe a clean paper towel to keep from having it too cold. It can help with the pain and swelling. Problem is, it'll also restrict the blood flow, which means not as many good, healthy blood cells helping to start the healing process. A nice, warm sea salt soak can be very soothing, too. And it is very good for your piercing. I'd lean more towards sea salt soaks, which improve blood flow and draw out impurities and should be part of your aftercare anyway. Not that ice will do damage, per se, but it's not going to further your healing, so don't overdo the icing.

Answer 2

You can apply ice to it, but overnight is too long.  Usually you don't wanna apply ice to anything for more than 30 minutes every few hours.  Ideally you wanna ice something 20-30 minutes every 2-3 hours.