(HealthDay News) -- If you've just gotten a body piercing, you'll need to take proper care of it right away to prevent infection.
The Association of Professional Piercers (APP) recommends cleaning the site with either a sterile saline solution, a non-iodized salt and water mixture, or antimicrobial soap. If cleaning with saline, you should soak the area at least two or three times each day.
If you're cleaning with soap, you should do it once or twice daily. Gently pat the area dry with a clean tissue or paper towel.
Your hands should always be clean before you touch or wash the piercing -- be sure to wash your hands with warm water and antibacterial soap. You should also clean clothing and bedding that may come into contact with the area. Finally, the APP recommends taking showers over baths.
