Can I Swim with a New Piercing?

What You Need to Know Before You Dive In:

We always suggest waiting until your piercing is fully healed before swimming. But let’s be honest—you might be tempted to take a dip sooner. So here’s a guide to the risks and best practices if you absolutely must.

Why Healing Time Matters

Every piercing location and body heals differently. While earlobes might be healed in a few weeks, cartilage often requires a few months, and navel piercings can take up to 9 months to heal completely. Until the piercing has healed internally, water exposure—especially in contaminated environments—can introduce bacteria and irritants.

Risks by Water Type

• Chlorinated Pools

  While chlorine kills many harmful organisms, it’s still harsh on healing skin, often drying and irritating the area. Some bacteria can also survive in pools.

• Natural Bodies (Lakes, Rivers, Ocean)

  These waters can harbor bacteria from runoff, sewage, and wildlife. That makes them especially risky—far worse than even a chlorinated pool.

• Hot Tubs

  Warm, moist, and often poorly maintained, hot tubs are breeding grounds for bacteria and should be avoided entirely during healing.

Protective Measures (If Swimming Is Unavoidable)

• Waterproof Bandages (e.g., Tegaderm)

  On flat areas like navels and nipples, a waterproof bandage can create a seal that protects the piercing from water. We prefer the ones with a pad as it keeps the adhesive from sticking to your jewelry. Note that adhesive irritation is a risk - especially if worn too long - so be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions for use. You may find that removal after few minutes in a hot shower will soften the adhesive and reduce irritation.

• Post-Swim Cleaning

  Whatever you use, clean the area immediately after swimming—liberally apply a wound-care saline spray.

Bottom Line: Is Swimming with a New Piercing Safe?

Not really—but if you’re going to do it:

• Wait as long as possible.

• Cover with waterproof dressing only on flat areas.

• Avoid submersion if bandaging isn’t possible (e.g., ear/face).

• Clean immediately after.

• Be vigilant for signs of irritation or infection.

If you notice irritation or anything that worries you after swimming, please reach out—we’re happy to share guidance from our experience and let you know if it may be time to see a medical professional. You can use the button below to easily book an appointment with us.