History of Ear Gauging in Tribal Civilizations

A study of the history of ear gauging indicates the practice to be as old as recorded human history. For males, this form of ear piercing has been a symbol of status, while for women, in addition to being used as means of bodily decoration, it has also been employed to signify the attainment of womanhood.

Ear gauging, which is also referred to as ear stretching, is the stretching of ear lobe piercings to larger diameters than that of the original piercing. It is a form of body enhancement or beautification that many young western people adopt to look 'different' from the usual crowd. However, this is not a modern form of body piercing, since it has been around for as long as archaeological records exist.

In many cases, ear gauging has been used historically to indicate the standing of members of a specific tribe, and in many respects this is still the situation today. Stretched piercings have been, and still are, a reflection on the individual's sexual capability and also their superiority over other males in the tribe. The larger the stretching, the more important the individual.

Otzi the Iceman is a prime example of mummies known to have stretched ears. This is the earliest known example of ear gauging, Otzi having 7-11 mm ear piercings during 3300 BC. It has been suggested that the stretching of the ears noted in depictions of Siddhartha Gautama, better known as Buddha, may have been caused by the weight of the gold jewelry he wore, but this is mere supposition.

It is supported, however, by the fact that the Masai tribe of Kenya and the Lahu and Karen-Paduang people of Thailand use this 'gravity' technique to stretch their piercings. Let us have a look at the ear gauging practices used today by various cultures.

A. Mursi Tribal Women

The Mursi is an Ethiopian tribe where the women are obliged to wear plates in their gauged ears and on their bottom lip. About a year prior to her marriage, or at about 15 years of age, a Mursi girl's lip will be pierced by her mother and a wooden peg pushed through the incision.

Once healed, the peg is changed for a larger diameter one. Eventually, the peg is replaced by a plate of clay or wood, and this plate is successively changed for larger diameter ones until the required diameter is attained - from around 8 - 22 cm in diameter (3 - 9 inches). Once these plates have been secured, she receives a higher degree of respect than those without them, and is known as a 'Bhansanai'.

These lip and ear plates need not be worn permanently, but are an expected adornment during special occasions such as during weddings and other celebrations, and when they serve food to men. Today, young women can generally make their own decision as to whether or not they follow this tradition.

B. The Masai People of Kenya

The practice of ear gauging has been common among Masai men and women for thousands of years. In recent years, however, most young men have not been following this custom, although you will still find many Masai women wearing ear decorations made from stones, cross-cut elephant tusks, wood and animal bones.

The original piercing is carried out using a thorn, sharpened twig or a sharp knife point. Once healed, ear gauging is then carried out by wearing increasingly heavy jewellery that pulls the lobe down and stretches the piercing. This is the traditional way of gauging ears in the more primitive cultures, although many Masai today will use proper ear gauging techniques, such as their own versions of insertion tapers or taper spikes. Beads are a common form of ornamentation, although plugs made from bone, tusks and wood are also used.

C. The African Fulani Tribe

Fulani women from Nigeria and Central Africa tend to use smaller diameter ear gauges, and decorate them using large gold domes or hoops carrying earrings. A Fulani child will have her ears pierced at around 3 years old, although they may not be stretched until she is older. The gauges used by Fulani women are relatively small compared to the Masai and Mursi, although the jewellery can be larger.

D. Asian Hill Tribes

Of the various hill tribes, the only two known to practice ear gauging are the Lahu from Thailand, and the Karen-Padaung (Longnecks) from Myanmar (Burma) and also the Phrae province in Thailand. That latter tribe are best known for their neck rings, offering the appearance of long necks, but both cultures believe the ear to be sacred and the more jewellery they can wear on the better. By gauging their ears, they are able to wear the maximum amount of jewellery they believe possible.

E. Mexican and Central American Civilizations

In Mayan and Aztec society, ear gauging was regarded as desirable for males. There are many Mayan representations of men with flares and ear plugs (ear spools) in gauged ears, and the material used was indicative of the social standing of the wearer. Jade ear plugs were worn by the higher classes, while the rest would use bone, stone, wood and other materials. In central Mexico, the craftsmanship of the Aztecs is evident in the ear gauging plugs and ornaments of gold and silver, though the lower classes would adorn their stretches earlobes with shells, copper and wood among many other imaginative materials.

Ear gauging has been carried out worldwide, and among other notable areas involved in this practice are Japan, where the Ainu used ear jewellery made from shells, bone and a ball and ring known as Ninkari. There are many other cultures worldwide where ear gauging was a part of their life, and even today many people regard ear stretching as a fashion statement and a way of expressing their own personality and individuality.

For more information on ear stretching please visit my website
Silicone Flesh Tunnels

Original article

Why Are Stretched Earlobes So Popular?

According to archaeological findings, earlobe stretching has been popular for many millennia, so why has it been such an enduring means of ear decoration?

Or have earlobes always been stretched just for decoration, or have there been other more occult reasons for this practice. It certainly appears that in regions of Africa, South America and Asia, earlobe stretching has been a tribal practice, and that stretched earlobes were not always just a sign of affiliation to a specific tribe or religion, but also of power or supremacy.

The practice may also have been associated with quasi-religious beliefs, and a necessity to stretch ones earlobes in order to conform to the social and religious practices of the day. In other words, it was expected of people, whatever the reason, and that might also be a driving force for those seeking ear stretching today.

The Influence of Tattooing

Another reason for the increase in the popularity of stretched earlobes is the way that tattooing has now become ubiquitous among young people today, with most having a tattoo somewhere, and many sporting half or full 'sleeves. Tattooing was something originally done by westerners who traveled the world - in other words, sailors, who were exposed to this form of bodily decoration.

However, it became popular among the aristocracy during the 19th and early 20 the centuries, and then commonplace with young people as a means of bodily adornment until everybody that wanted it was having a tattoo anywhere on their body. It is no longer a visible sign of being different or 'modern', and neither are ordinary piercings, even of the tragus, septum, eyebrow or lips which are also commonplace in the 21st century.

Stretched Earlobes - A Matter of Degree

Today, ear stretching can be used as a fashion statement more than any simple piercing or tattoo, and stretched earlobes are another step onwards from the traditional ear piercing that extended into multiple piercings and then piercings of other parts of the body. One aspect of earlobe stretching is that it can be carried out in degrees.

That means that while one person may have a 4 gauge stretching at around 5 mm, another can have a 00 gauge at just over 10 mm. So it is not just 'I have a pierced earlobe and so have you', but I have stretched ears and 'Mine is larger than yours'.

It is no longer being a 'dedicated follower of fashion' but by how much! Stretched earlobes are popular not only because they display a willingness to adopt this new fashion trend, but that it can be adopted to degrees. In fact, the highest gauge is 20 g at 0.81 mm while the lowest is 00g at 10.4 mm.

As the gauge number reduces, the size of the hole increase. After 00 gauge sizes increase in mm or inches, so theoretically there is no maximum although most gauge charts show up to 1 inch or even 30 mm.

Is It Safe?

Is ear gauging safe? The short answer is yes, if carried out under hygienic conditions and instructions are followed correctly. The safest way is have your stretched earlobes done by a professional, using hygienic tools and practices. However, you can do it yourself if you are aware of the dangers and understand the procedures to follow.

Some of the problems associated with ear stretching are:

There is a point after which the hole in your ear will not return to normal. That varies according to your own physiology and the way the stretching has been carried out.

You can suffer a 'blow-out' when the flesh of your ear will blow out and extend beyond skin level. This can be dangerous and disfiguring.

If you decide at a later date that you no longer want this large hole in your earlobe, maybe for work or some other reason, reconstructive cosmetic surgery is very expensive. Not all employers appreciate these adornments, particularly when dealing with certain sectors of the public. It may be small-minded of them, but that's irrelevant.

What Jewellery Can I Use?

Forget the small-minded people and get some fabulous jewellery for your stretched piercing. Among the jewellery available for stretched earlobes are some beautiful flesh tunnels and plugs that can be adorned with any precious or decorative stones of your choice. There seems to be a lack of genuine precious stones for ear stretchings, and diamond, emerald or ruby jewellery is not easy to find.

However, there are loads of glass, stainless steel and plastic plugs and flesh tunnels, including many decorated with genuine amber and this is one reason why stretched earlobes are so popular Most people tend to tolerate organic or glass ear jewellery in the early days of their stretching, after which they can go on to silver, and even specially made platinum or gold plugs and flesh tunnels.

Stretched earlobes are popular in the 21stcentury because they are a step onwards from normal piercings, and with tattoos so ubiquitous there are few ways for young people to express their individuality. Stretched piercings is one way, and stretched earlobes are currently considered one of the safer forms of gauged piercings.

For more information on expanded piercings and related jewellery please visit our website http://www.fleshtunnel.co.uk/

Original article

How To Know If Your Piercing Is Infected

You decided on a body piercing, found a reputable piercer, and survived your appointment. Now your piercing is doing something unexpected, and you're worried that it might be infected. Are these the normal signs of healing, or are you and your piercing headed for trouble? Read on to find out how to tell if your piercing is infected.

Any time your body is injured - including piercing - you might see the five signs of inflammation: redness, heat, swelling, pain, and loss of function. These are normal and indicate that your immune system is at work, but they can also be signs of infection. The difference is a matter of degree and timing.

Symptoms

Your piercer should tell you what to expect during healing. If you know what is normal, you will be able to detect trouble early. Let's look at the possible symptoms of infection:

Redness - It is normal for a new piercing to be slightly reddened because blood flow to the area is naturally increased. Sure signs of trouble include redness that won't go away, an expanding area of redness, or red streaks that track away from the piercing.

Heat - Heat also occurs because of increased blood flow and indicates a problem if it increases over time, is hot and not just warm, or just will not go away.

Swelling - Swelling is caused by a build up of fluid. Oral piercings are especially prone to it - a tongue piercing can take a week to ten days to settle down. Swelling is problematic if it does not go down as quickly as expected or gets worse. Your jewelry must be long enough to accommodate swelling. Otherwise, it is very hard to clean, and there is a risk that the jewelry could pull through the piercing and be lost under the skin.

Pain - It is normal for a piercing to be tender for a few days, especially if it is subject to movement (e.g. tongue, lip), or aggravated by clothing or bumping. Pain that worsens with time or is extreme indicates a problem.

Loss of function - An eyebrow might not have a lot of work to do, but a tongue will be slowed down by a piercing, and an infection will make this worse. A pierced body part that will not move or is too painful to move is not normal - you may have an infection.

Two more symptoms

Fever/chills/nausea

- Fever, sometimes accompanied by chills and nausea, is a definite sign of trouble. You either have a localized infection at the piercing site or a more serious (potentially fatal) systemic infection. Consult a doctor if you have a high and/or persistent fever, chills, or nausea. These are not normal reactions to piercing and you may need antibiotics.

Pus/discharge - Not every discharge indicates infection. During the early stages of healing, a healthy piercing will discharge lymph, which is just blood plasma without the larger proteins. It is a clear or slightly yellowish fluid that dries to a crust and is easily removed with warm water.

Pus, on the other hand, is definitely a sign of infection. It is largely made up of dead white blood cells and bacteria. It may be whitish, yellow, green, or gray, and may have bloody streaks and an odor. Yellow, green, or foul-smelling pus indicate a serious infection. Seek medical attention.

What to do

If you think you have an infection, contact your body piercer immediately. Piercers are often more knowledgeable than doctors, who can be prejudiced against or unfamiliar with piercings. However, if you think you are in trouble or your condition worsens significantly, you must seek medical attention. If you lose a piercing, you can get it redone - it is not worth risking your life or serious tissue damage.

Mild infections can likely be treated at home. One time-tested remedy is the salt-water soak. Dissolve 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of sea salt in 1 cup (250 ml) of warm (not so hot that you scald yourself) water in a clean cup, ideally a disposable plastic one for each treatment. Soak the piercing or make a compress with a clean washcloth saturated with the salt water. Do this two or three times per day, fifteen minutes per session.

Avoid antibiotic creams or ointments as they trap dirt and debris and do not allow the piercing to breathe. Do not remove the jewelry from an infected piercing. This could allow the piercing to seal, trapping pus and causing an abscess. Pay special attention to infections in facial or oral piercings - their proximity to the brain makes them especially dangerous.

Prevention

The best strategy is prevention; follow the aftercare instructions from your piercer. He or she will recommend a mild cleanser and a cleaning schedule. Never touch a piercing with unclean hands. Never use alcohol, peroxide, iodine-based products or harsh antibacterial soaps. They are much too strong and will dry skin, kill cells, and impede the healing process.

To learn more tips about piercing visit Pete's blog at http://www.traguspiercingblog.com/

Original article

Which Labret Piercing Will Suit You?

A labret piercing (also known as a tongue pillar) is found on an individual's face, below the lower lip but above the chin. There are forms of labret piercings that can be found in various positions, even though they are more commonly found centred on the face. The term "labret" is frequently mispronounced. Contrary to popular belief, the term is not derived from the French language and so, the "t" should be pronounced. Traditionally, the labret piercing was a representation of a person's status within their particular society. In ancient cultures for example, specifically the Aztecs and Mayans, labret piercing could only be worn by the males in that particular society to emphasise the fact that they were from a higher place on the caste system.

Similarly, whenever a mask was made within the society of the American Northwest Coast Indians, a labret form was crafted into the piece if that mask was a representation of someone from a high status. This form of body jewellery is often worn as an expression of one's personality in this country. Whilst a labret piercing can hold a stud or a ring, aesthetically, most people seem to prefer to wear a stud. Another reason for this could be due to the fact that labret studs are a deal more practical and easier to change than rings.

With the variety of studs available nowadays, by choosing to wear a labret stud you will be given more opportunity to be creative and versatile with your body jewellery. Once the piercing has healed, it is arguable that wearing a labret stud is the most comfortable of all piercings. This is down to the fact that labret studs have a flat disc that sits comfortably against your gums, therefore causing you no irritation. This also means that labret studs are suitable for use in many other body piercings. They would be ideal to use in ear piercings for example, as their flat backs means that the studs are less likely to be caught in clothing or hair.

The materials that can be used to make labret studs are titanium, coloured titanium, stainless steel and plastic retainers. Thanks to their almost invisible appearance, plastic studs are ideal for use during situations where you would prefer your piercing to be more discreet, such as during work hours or when you attend a job interview. Depending on the positioning on the face, various types of labret piercing are available. In a vertical labret piercing for instance, a curved barbell protrudes from the top of the lower lip and the centre of the upper chin. A snake bite piercing is where two studs are used to resemble snake fangs, thanks to their position on the face.

Similarly, spider bite piercings are so named because of how they are represented on a person's face; they consist of two labret studs that are placed next to each other on the same side of the face. The final type of labret piercing, a lowbret, is located as low as possible on a person's face. With the wide range of labret studs available and the ability to now design your own piece of body jewellery, you can really be creative. With Valentine's Day coming up, you could wear a heart stud to show off your sensitive side. Or maybe you could choose to incorporate your favourite gem stone into your labret stud.

Body Matters Gold sell unique jewellery and are able to offer you the finest and most stylish labret studs around. By using top quality materials to custom make jewellery, their team will welcome any ideas you have to create your own piece of unique jewellery. If you want to create your own labret stud, contact them today to discuss your unique jewellery ideas.

For more information about Labret Body Jewellery, visit: http://www.bodymattersgold.com/

Original article

Is Your Piercing Infected?

Piercing is all the rage. People will pierce just about any part of their body and won't think twice about it. There is a danger of infection from getting body parts pierced though. One of the dangers is infection. Infection can cause scarring and even more dangerous illnesses if not taken care of immediately.

How to tell if a Piercing is Infected

Redness

You will obviously have some redness after you get a piercing done. If the redness does not go away or gets much darker, there is a possibility that it could be infected. Use an antibiotic cream to try to reverse the effects of the infection. Antibiotics are the only thing that will get rid of infections. If you catch it while it is still only in the redness stages, you won't end up with scarring from it.

Swelling

If the area around the piercing is unusually swelled for an extended period of time, there is a good chance it is infected. Follow the above advice about using antibiotics. Do not let the swelling continue for too long. Contact your doctor if it persists. Your doctor can give you a prescription strength antibiotic to help.

Puss

If you begin to see puss around the pierced area, you definitely have an infection. This must be taken care of immediately. Contact your doctor right away. This is when it can lead to scarring of the skin. If you let it go too long, you could end up in the hospital. Infections are nothing to mess with and there is only one way to get rid of it.

To avoid getting an infection to begin with, take care of the piercing after you get it done. Keep the area around the piercing clean by using alcohol. Avoid getting dirt anywhere near the piercing for a while after you have gotten the piercing done. The piercing might be attractive to you when it is the way it is supposed to be. When it gets infected, it becomes extremely ugly and it is dangerous. Take care of your body and it will take care of you.

Think hard before you get a piercing done. A piercing isn't quite as permanent as a tattoo because all you have to do is take the jewelry out and let it grow back in. If your piercing gets infected, it can become a permanent scar that will never look right again. Make sure you keep it clean.

If you want to learn more tips about piercing visit Pete's blog at http://www.traguspiercingblog.com/

Original article

Dangle Belly Button Rings Enhance Your Sexy Appeal

The wearing of dangle belly button rings is now becoming a custom of many modern women. It is an extraordinary way of beautifying your body in a fashionable manner. The use of body jewelry enhances the sexy appeal of your abs, making them more attractive. These dangling navel rings are available in wide assortment of designs from different jewelry stores. Adapting the practice of adorning your navel with dangle belly button rings will surely improve the charm of your sexy body.

Belly button rings are the most stylish way to highlight your abs. They can be purchased in different shapes and sizes that help you come out in a unique style that you prefer. You can enjoy having a mix and match with those pieces of body jewelry to complement with your overall attire. At times, many opt to use dangling belly rings which are lengthy and create an impressive impact as it sways when you move around.

If you plan to buy this type of jewelry, the following tips are helpful to come up with the desired design. Think about what you look for in a belly ring. Consider the materials, the length and the decoration that you best like. Common materials are gold, silver, crystals, titanium, surgical steel and plastic. Having set with your plan, you can now be ready to shop without being confused with so many choices that are available in the stores. Online shopping can often get you the best deals and allow you to compare styles and prices.

Another suggestion in order to make your jewelry unique is to add decorations to it. Attaching pendant could make these dangling artistically distinctive which at times become personalized style. You can choose from a birthstone, a significant symbol and other designs with significant meaning to you. You can wear these various styles of navel rings depending on the occasion that fits them. Selecting the most preferred dangle belly button rings will be an added appeal to your look and style.

Patronizing the use of dangle belly button rings reveals the personality of an individual. With the sense of responsibility associated with having naval piercing reflects a positive character of a person. Always consider the materials of the product when shopping to refrain from hassles later on. You can also customize the designs such as your name, initials, flowers etc. Identifying perfect ones suited for your skin type and desired style will absolutely create a sophisticated charm to your look.

Original article

Belly Rings Can Lead To Infection If You're Not Careful

As summer quickly approaches and you are looking for ways to show off your beach ready body, a new piercing may be just the ticket. Belly rings are great accessories for bikinis. They come in all shapes, sizes and colors, so they are fun to shop for and collect. You can get very simple studs to fashion forward dangling jewels, depending on your tastes and activities. Of course, if you don't already have your navel pierced, you may be wondering if it's the right decision for you.

If you are thinking about taking the plunge in order to sport some belly rings this summer, you should be aware of all the risks and complications associated with it. If you aren't careful, your new piercing could turn into a painful infection. If you do a lot of swimming, you will want to get your piercing done ahead of the season to give it several weeks to heal before heading out to the pool or beach. Germs and bacteria can get into the piercing hole very easily in these situations and cause a lot of problems.

Signs of infection include swelling, redness, hotness and drainage. If this happens to you, you will want to consider having a doctor take a look at it before it gets any worse. They should be able to suggest a treatment that will get you back to normal within a week. If you think your infection has gotten out of control, your doctor may suggest removing any belly rings to give the wounded area a chance to heal. This can all be preventable if you take good care of a fresh piercing by cleaning it out with rubbing alcohol twice a day. Make sure to use higher quality jewelry to ensure your body doesn't have a bad reaction.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Belly Button Rings Can Be Easily Hidden From View

If you are pondering getting a piercing, there is lot to consider that could ultimately affect your decision. Not only should you be aware of all the complications and infections that can occur, but you should also consider the implications in other areas of your life. Before you move forward, be sure to find out whether or not your employer or school has a policy against it. It will often depend on whether or not you are in a position that deals with clients. You could also consider getting a piercing that is easily hidden from sight. Belly button rings are an example of this and should enable you to move forward without anyone having to know about it.

If you do decide to wear belly button rings to work, make sure that your shirt is not too tight. Sometimes just being able to see the outline of the jewelry under your shirt is enough to upset your employer or their customers. There are also options such as clear retainers that allow you to wear your piecing to work without it being seen. This type of thing probably works best for a tongue piercing, though you should still be careful that your speech remains unaffected while in the workplace.

As with belly button rings or any other piercing, you must be extremely careful to take excellent care of it. A fresh piercing needs plenty of attention, including regular cleanings. Try to clean out the area and jewelry at least twice a day with rubbing alcohol. This should help you avoid a painful infection. Signs of an infection include redness, swelling and drainage. If you find yourself with a worsening infection, be sure to get it checked out with a doctor. They should be able to help you heal the area within a few days to a week.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Treatment of the Belly Button Piercing

Navel perforation is usually done above the navel, although sometimes it is also done under it. It is important to know that you can not have two perforations done simultaneously, because body tissues shrink during the healing process and channels interfere with each other to form freely. However, it is possible to have a perforation done above and under the belly button at the same time.

Treatment of the belly button piercing

The Navel is a place, where the body dirt amasses, which may cause a variety of infections. If the belly button has not dried completely, it can be subjected to generation of bacteria. So, as soon as you detect infections, inflammation and redness or feel itching or some other strange symptoms, you should take immediate steps to treat them.

Belly button piercing is located in one of the most flexible parts of the body. Constant movement of the waist can injure fresh perforations and the clothes you wear constantly rub and touch the wound. With the proper treatment the wound in the belly button heals completely in 3-4 months but in some cases the healing process may even last up to 12 months.

The duration of the healing depends upon various factors such as the state of your health, your weight, whether you keep to a diet, the clothes you wear, your occupation and, what is the most important, how carefully you take care of it. If you worry about possible difficulties with healing, it is better to insert a banana-shaped barbell than a ring first to make sure it will not rotate.

During the first 4-5 days after perforation your belly button usually look fine, and then you can detect some redness at the place where the jewelry enters the body. Some crust can begin to form around the piercing but you don't have to worry because these are just dead white blood cells. There is going to be a small amount of liquid at the place of perforation that is a sign that your body fights the foreign matter. If it comes to profuse discharge and the liquid turns to yellowish or you feel pain and observe excessive redness, it could be a sign of a possible infection.

In 6-8 weeks the liquid discharge will have to diminish and there should be only some redness left around the piercing. The wound is not completely healed until the redness disappears at all. If you stop treating the wound before it heals, you can catch an infection.

Jewelry for belly button piercing

For a standard initial piercing of the belly button bananas and rings of the size 1.6mm x 10mm/12mm are used. Jewelry like rings with pendants or with large irregular edges (in form of a flower, for example) can not be applied for the initial piercing. During pregnancy it is recommended to change the navel adornment to a barbell of the size 1.6mm x 16mm/18mm made of flexible teflon. The change of the adornment should be done only after complete healing of the wounds. If the perforation is done under the navel, the banana-like barbell (standard jewelry for the belly button piercing in form of a curved pin with a gem or without it) may also be inserted turned back to front.

Wearing piercing during pregnancy

You can wear your navel piercing up to 6 months of pregnancy. Though, everything depends upon the state of the woman's health. Then you have either to remove your piercing jewelry at all or to replace it with a big ring made of bioplastic.

Body Jewelry Shop qpiercing.com sell retail and wholesale top quality body jewelry at good prices. At qpiercing.com you can find labret studs, vibrating tongue rings, navel rings, belly button rings, eyebrow rings, ear rings, nipple rings, captive bead rings, nose studs, barbells, pinchers, retainers, tapers and many more

Original article

Belly Button Rings: Perfect for the Newly Single Woman

Enduring a divorce is likely one of the most difficult things a woman can go through in her life. Many experts equate it to the death of a spouse, and the truth isn't that far off. Mostly, getting a divorce is a loss of dreams, hopes and plans for the future. When you suddenly find yourself single, every facet of your life changes, especially if you have children. Becoming the primary caregiver can be exhausting, especially if you are a stay at home mom.

Despite the difficulties, most women come to a point where they're ready to start moving forward with their lives. This could involve a great variety of activities and actions, the least of which is a little self-reflection. When it comes to increasing your self-esteem, you can have short-term goals and long-term goals. Some of your long-term goals might include buying a home, finding a new job or losing weight. However, it's a good idea to work on some short-term goals as well. They can be motivating and give you something to get excited about while you work toward the future. Some examples might include getting a haircut, buying some new clothes or even getting a piercing or a tattoo.

You might have to be more of the adventurous type to actually consider getting a piercing, but a surprising number of single women do opt for belly button rings or tongue piercings. Tattoos are always a good option, but are quite a bit more permanent than say, belly button rings, so that's a consideration that you'll have to tackle on your own.

The best advice for newly separated or divorced women is to go outside of your norm. If you continue to do the same things, look the same way and fail to realize your goals, you're not going to find happiness. While considering belly button rings might sound like a silly suggestion, it's something easy that provides instant gratification. Plus, you can always change your mind without any lasting recourse.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Cartilage Piercing: Some Factors to Consider When Having Your Cartilage Pierced

In the process of cartilage piercing, a person's cartilaginous tissue is penetrated for the purpose of inserting accessories like rings. In this procedure, the parts of the body penetrated are middle of the nose and the upper ears.

Cartilage piercing has become quite a fad these days especially to younger people as a means to make a fashionable statement or to proclaim their being part of a particular social group. This procedure is not anything new however, as it has been around for a long time now. Body piercing is a cultural tradition in so many parts of the world.

If you are planning to undergo cartilage piercing, you must understand that there may be some risks involved in the procedure. Here are some of the things you need to take into consideration:

- Healing time - the time it takes for cartilaginous tissue is longer than regular body tissue. In fact, cartilage piercing heals two to six times longer than skin piercing. In this case, you should be prepared to experience some bleeding for a period of time, pain that can last for months and other complications.
- Infection - this is not uncommon especially if the cartilage piercing was not done properly with the right tools and in the proper environment. People who have gone to piercing shops located in malls complain about complications. Usually, the problem is due to contamination at the shop where hygienic measures are not properly observed. Cartilaginous tissue treatment is more complicated than treating a wound and can require higher amounts of antibiotics. When infection occurs, serious pain is often involved.

To be sure that you go through cartilage piercing safely, here are some helpful tips:

1. Go to an accredited piercing clinic to get the job done.
2. Ensure that all tools to be used are properly sterilized which is highly likely if you choose to go to an authorized clinic. Go for a piercing needle instead of a gun. A piercing gun can cause damage to the tissue which will lead to longer healing time.
3. Always be on the look-out for symptoms of an infection. Common signs include pain, bleeding or pus. When you think the cartilage piercing is infected, consult a doctor immediately - prolonging this can cause bigger problems. While waiting for the cartilaginous tissue to heal, avoid changing rings yet to avoid complications.
4. Wear only hypoallergenic rings. Some metals used in cartilage piercing can cause infection so to be safe, be to use only hypoallergenic ones.

At the first mention of cartilage piercing, perhaps the first word to course through the mind is ouch. It is also called a helix piercing when performed on the helix or upper part of the ear cartilage. Either way, it involves the region of the outer ear which doesn't have much flesh. Perhaps it's not as painful as there may be less neural sensation in the area.

Original article

The Nose Piercing Procedure

Do you like to get a little nasty? Do you like body art and piercings? Well, more and more people are taking the drastic step of getting their nose pierced. It is becoming almost mainstream in the US, although it has been a religious rite in Africa for centuries.

Don't think getting your nose pierced is similar to getting other body piercings. First of all, it can lead to terrible infections and it can be painful. Plus, it may cause others to see you in a negative light. You can forget about wearing one in a professional work atmosphere. But if you're intent on getting one you should take special precautions so it will heal correctly. Read on.

Your first stop should be at the doctor's. Your doctor will tell you if a nose piercing is right for you health-wise. You don't want to get sick and if you're not in good health, a piercing can lead to severe complications. Get your doctor's advice before proceeding.

Don't take cleanliness for granted. Be sure to clean your nose and jewelry at least twice a day. Apply antiseptic frequently throughout the day to keep germs away.

When you're cleaning your nose piercing be sure to use warm salt water and cotton balls. You won't want to use hydrogen peroxide because it's abrasive.

Once you get your piercing don't fiddle with it. It looks gross when people have their fingers in their nose. Give us a break. Playing with your nose and jewelry can also prevent it from healing.

Keep your hands off your nose ring unless you're cleaning it. Touching it too often can lead to awful infections that are painful and ugly to see. If you pull on your jewelry you can also cause it to tear the skin and cause bleeding. This is not something you want to happen.

So, don't be surprised if your piercing begins to swell. It's normal. Ask your doctor's advice and don't worry unless it becomes exceedingly painful.

It would be best to read the health insurance comparison first before deciding and the home health care should be planned very well.

Original article

Do Belly Button Rings Really Change A Person?

 Belly button rings only change what a person looks like, and not even by that much. They do not change who a person is deep down.

Belly button rings, in reality, don't change a person's appearance all that much. It is only a minor change in one little location, and being in a navel means that you do not have to look at it. So if you think that if your son or daughter has it done, this is something that will stare you in the face day after day, and that absolutely everyone and their brother will see, think again. For inappropriate occasions, such as funerals or sometimes school, it can easily be covered up. Actually, it can be covered up every day awhile he or she is lounging around the house so that you don't have to see it. But then why get it, right? Because it will make him or her feel better about themselves.

When kids sport belly button rings, they are trying to say something about who they are as a person. And at this tender, self-exploratory age, that means the world to them. Think back how ever many years, back to when you were a teenager. Now think how vital this horrid age is. Think about who you are or were, and then think about how your view may have been changed by one rather dumb comment about the style you were into back then. Admit it or not, that hurt you somewhere, and if it didn't hurt, it ticked you off something fierce. Am I right? And when a teen gets mad, they rebel. That rebellion is usually what leads to doing dangerous things. And I doubt that is something you want your child to go through.

Now that you have taken a second to think about all of this, don't you think that it's better to be supportive of them? Belly button rings are quickly becoming one of the safest piercings to get, aside from getting your ears pierced that is, so that isn't something that should make or break your decision. Just take it from me, be supportive and, if it makes you feel better, let your teen know how you feel, but assure them that you are supportive of their needs and wants. This will make a world of a difference for your teen.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Health Tips for Using Belly Button Rings for Pregnant Women

The use of belly button rings for pregnant women is becoming a fashion lately. Many women refuse to get rid of their belly button rings even during their pregnancy. These pieces of jewelries serve as decorative accessories making the navel area look impressive. However, when this is practiced during pregnancy, several cautions and proper maintenance should be carefully observed. Here are some ways on how to properly deal with your rings during prenatal stage; whether you choose to keep it affixed on your belly, remove it, or pick another style.

Most health professionals recommend the removal of belly button jewelry or ring during pregnancy. Based from the reports of some women wherein their rings itch and pull as the belly stretches on the fifth or sixth month. You will be at risk of infection if the ring causes your skin abrasions. The best thing to do in this case is to remove it. On the event that the hole closes, just have your belly re-pierce when you're ready after giving birth. Considering this scenario would help you take the necessary actions to keep you in good condition while pregnant.

Another option to bear in mind is to use non-metal jewelry. If you want to keep a ring hanging on your belly this type would be suited for pregnant women. It is flexible and is two inches in length which is adaptable to your growing abdomen. Expectant mothers acknowledge that this item enables their bellies pierced without pain unlike other piercing. Preferring to put this on would be the best alternative to stay trendy even pregnant.

Once you have decided to keep your ring in place, be vigilant on the possible discomforts that it might bring. Take notice on the skin surrounding the ring if it turns red or there is pus that's developing. If it itch and makes you feel uneasy better just remove it. If the infections persist consult your physician for treatment.

Upholding to the use of belly button rings for pregnant women is a matter of choice. Seek advice from a piercing artist for the best product suited to your condition. Ask your doctor for guidelines having that belly button ring on when you give birth. You can also buy a non-piercing type which you only need to clip on. Planning to stay pretty with belly button rings for pregnant women is possible when you know how to maintain it safely.

Discover complete buying guide tips for belly button rings for pregnant women at http://bellybuttonringsforpregnantwomen.com/

Original article

Belly Button Rings Do Not Change Who A Person Really Is

Belly button rings only change someone's appearance, not who they are deep down inside.

Belly button rings show no signs of slowing down, in fact, they seem to be gaining momentum when it comes to popularity. That being said, more and more people are learning to accept these piercings (heck, even my Grandmother thinks they look neat). Are you one of the acceptors, or are you one who still frowns upon these pieces of body jewelry?

If you said you hate them with every fiber of your being, know this, what you think, regardless of who wants to admit it or not, has an impact. And this is a very, very bad impact. That's right; it can downright ruin a person's life.

Without a doubt, all teenagers are looking to be accepted by society, regardless if they want to admit that or not. And when they hear that someone thinks differently of them just because they enjoy sporting belly button rings, can really make them think differently of themselves. This can actually lead to acting out and depression. If you don't already know how detrimental depression can be, look it up. This is something that you need to know! To keep it short, without going into exact details, if a bout of depression is not caught and treated in time, it could lead to suicide in some cases. Now let me ask you this, is expressing your closed-minded views on belly button rings really worth risking someone's life over? I seriously doubt it.

Just because your niece or nephew has their navel pierced, doesn't mean that they are any different on the inside. The only thing that has changed is now they have a body piercing. Their personality is the same; and after all, isn't that how a person should be viewed, by their personality? So think twice about how you want to view him or her, because his will also affect how they see and what they think of you.

If after hearing all of this you still hate them, be considerate to those that don't and keep it to yourself. Otherwise, you never know who may be listening, and your thoughts could ruin someone's life.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Body Jewelry Draws Attention Above The Neck

Body jewelry above the neckline encompasses so much more than just earrings. With the piercing options available today, you can draw attention to your face in a variety of attractive ways.

Piercing has been around for centuries. Today's procedures, when done by a professional, are safe and relatively painless which may be the reason people are exploring this for so many areas of the body especially the face.

The most accepted location for piercing continues to be the ears. No one even thinks twice about having this done and it is popular with women, men and children (even babies) alike. Some people take it beyond one hole and move all the way up the ear lobe and around or even to the tragus (the flap at the opening of the ear). Additionally, stretching the lobe is becoming more in vogue. Because of its prevalence, you have the widest selection of body jewelry to choose from for your ears.

After the ears, the nose and eyebrows have become increasingly popular choices. The nose, of course, requires diligent aftercare because of all the bacteria found there. A nose ring or post is usually located on the side but you will also see these in the septum area (between the two nostrils). Eyebrow jewelry is very fashionable and can be placed anywhere along the brow although you will usually see it near the outer edges. Don't go without jewelry for more than 48 hours as this is one spot that can close up quickly.

The mouth area offers a multitude of places to pierce. There is the labret (above chin, below lip), monroe (off center of the upper lip, named after Marilyn Monroe), angel or snake bites (opposite sides of the upper lip), smiley (upper frenulum above two front teeth) and frowny (like the smiley but located near the bottom teeth). Some people are also piercing their cheeks and places inside the mouth such as the tongue.

Body jewelry available for these piercings include rings, posts, barbells and studs. Some places lend themselves to dangling body jewelry such as the eyebrow or ear. Others like the nose and mouth area are more suited to posts or studs.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Belly Button Rings Need To Be Accepted By Society

Belly button rings are more than just a passing fad. Since they show no sign of leaving anytime soon, society needs to learn to accept them.

Belly button rings have become an everyday occurrence in the lives of the younger generations, and because of the, the older generations are accepting them more and more each day. And right now, believe it or not, acceptance is everything.

Whether people want to admit it or not, being accepted by society is important. It can even be vital to a younger person trying to figure out who they are. Being seen as an outcast and being looked down upon can be detrimental to a teenager, regardless if they want to admit that or not. That is why it is so important for society to accept body jewelry as more than just a passing fad for the social misfits. Now let's be honest here, it can be seen more on the "popular" crowd of younger generations more than on anyone else.

To prove this, just watch how many teenagers walk into piercing parlors with their parents and get a body piercing, and then think about how the teenager carries him or herself. You just might be shocked to see how many bright and popular kids want in on the growing sensation. If their parents are willing to accept their teenager's choice, then so should you. You might want to look at how many of their Mothers start browsing the belly button rings as their child gets pierced too; I bet that sight will shock you more than anything else will.

You see, body jewelry, belly button rings in particular, are more than just a passing fad. They need to be accepted by everyone, regardless of your age. Even if you wouldn't be caught dead with one, you need to accept it on those who would. Belly button rings will be around for many more generations, so to be blunt, learn to accept them. Remember, if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Navel Piercing Care

In order for the navel piercing to last as long as possible you should keep the following rules:

· You should not bend for the first couple days.

· A specialist will put over a bandage, which should be removed in 4-5 hours after a puncture.

· For washing you should use only the antibacterial soap, which should contain Triklozan.

· In order to make the healing process faster you should apply salty solution on the wound from time to time. You can pour this solution into a glass and turning it over hold it on your navel or soak a towel with it. Every procedure lasts about 15 minutes. As often you would do this as faster your wound would heal.

· It is necessary to remove all the incrustations appeared, because that would be a place where all bacteria would develop and it would prevent the wound from healing over.

· Use cleaning solutions

· Lavender butter with BP labeling reduces perceptibility and stimulates a healing process. Bash the wound with butter by a wad stick and remove all wastes by a napkin. It is recommended to wear antiseptic compress all the time within the first two weeks. This would help to prevent the wound damage and would protect from an infection.

· Do not wear tight or small cloth and also cloth that would prevent air to pass through it.

· It is mandatory to wipe a puncture spot in case if you sweat, since the sweat prevents the wound healing.

· It is not allowed but rather recommended to get a tan. This would dry your wound a little bit and also will help the organism to produce the vitamin D, which stimulates the healing process.

The main problem of the wound infection is a "playing" with a body jewelry and dirty hands. Do not touch a body jewelry. In order to look at it do not move it but rather use a mirror.

Do not use spirit for a wound treatment since it may injure the wound. Hydrogen peroxide is not good either, since it kills the generated cells. Do not use butters and ointments, which prevent the wound from drying up.

It is forbidden to remove a decoration during the healing period. This way you would get a risk to lose a puncture spot or to damage it when inserting a decoration back.

Bars would be the best decoration until the end of the healing period. The period of healing would stretch if to use navel rings.

Visit the Body Jewelry Shop at qpiercing.com. We sell high quality body jewelry at good prices. At qpiercing.com you can find tongue rings, lip rings, belly rings, ear plugs and ear tunnels, nose rings, piercing retainers, piercings kits and many more.

Original article

Belly Rings Are Quickly Becoming The Most Common Of The Piercings

Belly rings are one of the newest piercings to be found and yet they are swiftly becoming the most common of them all.

Belly rings came onto the piercing scene in the mid 1990s and started a revolution. Prior to them, piercings were seen as something the Punk crowd did to garner attention. Once several super models were seen baring their midriff and showing off their belly rings, piercings became more mainstream.

Today a large percentage of the population has at least one piercing if not multiple. It is more common than not to see earrings on a girl and at least one facial piercing at any event with teenagers. From being taboo, piercings are now commonly accepted in most areas of society for most age groups. And this is all thanks to belly rings.

The majority of belly rings are found on females ages fifteen through thirty. Used primarily as a fashion statement, they can be simple silver studs or elaborate jeweled pieces that cover the entire navel area. That is one of the best things about them. No matter what your taste and style is, you can find one that suits your mood, wardrobe or general personality.

Even more than just changing the way piercings are viewed on a whole, navel rings are helping to change the stereotypes that piercings of that nature are for females only. While the majority of them are still found in female navels, more and more male navels are showing up pierced and bejeweled.

The lines between Punk and Prep, and male and female are slowly being blurred and a lot of this is thanks to belly rings. Simple piercings done in a "safe" body part they are showing the world that you don't need to be trying to make a statement or stand out to want to have your body pierced. Today they are just as common as pierced ears on a girl.

Belly rings can be called many things, but they are very simply the forefathers of taking piercings mainstream. A trend started by a supermodel, they are poised to be around for several more decades, so get used to them and start seeing the beauty in them.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

What Would You Give Up For A Belly Ring?

Getting your navel pierced not only hurts some when it is done, there may be some things you have to forgo during the healing process. Make sure you consider the full cost of getting to wear a belly ring.

No doubt about it belly rings are attractive but are they worth it? Many people must think so because everyone from stars like Amanda Bynes, Beyonce and Britney Spears to average teen-agers, college kids and even moms are getting their navel pierced.

Of course, there is the initial cost (and possible pain) of a navel piercing. Then there is the effort required to take care of it. This area of your body is more sensitive than most places piercings are done so you have to follow directions closely to keep the area clean and free of infection. Beyond this you may find it requires giving up a few activities you enjoy while it heals.

In order to keep it clean, you may have to be careful about using perfume, scented moisturizers and other fragranced products on the area. This is especially true if you are sensitive to fragrances of any kind or prone to allergic reactions.

If you like to swim, you may have to stay out of the pool, hot tub, spa or other public water spaces for at least the initial months of healing. Exposing your belly button to these places can be risky even if you are sure they are being kept very clean.

There may be some sports activities you need to avoid. Most people don't use hula hoops for sports but it is a good example of what to avoid. You don't want a hoop going across the area. You need to ask yourself if there are any other fitness routines or sports that you do regularly which could disturb your mid-section. Or even if your shirt will be rubbing the area as you perform sports or activities, you might need to forgo those at least in the beginning of the healing process.

It is a great idea to ask other people you know about their experience with piercing and wearing belly rings so you can decide if it is for you or not.

An organization fanatic, Julie loves finding creative ways to set her home (and yours!) to rights with practical products and efficient problem-solving. Tackle your closet with closet organizers and visit Space Savers for other great products sure to help with your clutter problem.

Original article

Do Babies And Belly Button Rings Mix?

When it comes to belly button rings, like it or not, you are going to have some issues both before and after your pregnancy. Yes it's possible but is it good?

Browse the internet regarding pregnancy and navel piercings and you will find plenty of both positive and negative comments including things like:

* I had no problems. I put a pregnancy post in and made it through just fine.

* I took my belly button ring out during pregnancy. The piercing closed up and I had to have it redone.

* I have a mess on my hands. Stretch marks, scars and now I need plastic surgery to fix everything.

Everyone has a different experience but you have to consider that sometimes it's not just getting through the pregnancy, there is an afterwards to deal with also. It can't hurt to ask yourself these questions before you sign up for a navel piercing:

1. Do I plan or hope to have more than one child? It could be more difficult to keep that belly button ring intact through multiple pregnancies.

2. Do I plan to nurse my babies? If yes, consider that you're going to be holding that child front and center for many months. Babies have a way of pulling on things and finding things you don't want them to.

3. Am I going to have time and energy to take care of my navel post-baby? You are going to have your hands full of diapers and milk and slobber and sometimes a shower is the only thing you will get accomplished in a day. Do you really want one more thing to worry about?

4. Am I okay with the fact that my belly may not look the same after baby!? You may never want to show off your body in that way again. But then again wanting to show off your belly button ring may be just the incentive you need to get back in shape.

Think about it. Babies and belly button rings may not mix by nature but only you can answer the question if that is okay with you.

An organization fanatic, Julie loves finding creative ways to set her home (and yours!) to rights with practical products and efficient problem-solving. Tackle your closet with closet organizers and visit Space Savers for other great products sure to help with your clutter problem.

Original article

Tongue Rings Are The Third Most Popular Piercing In the Western World

Tongue rings only came on the scene in the 1980s and yet are the third most popular of all piercing behind ears and nostrils.

Tongue rings quickly became popular with people after they first came onto the scene in the 1980s. This is probably for several different reasons. The biggest one being that they are actually quite easily concealed when necessary. "No-see-um beads," which are flat flesh colored barbells, combined with careful speaking make them nearly invisible in day-to-day life.

Tongue rings are one of the gender-neutral piercings available today. They are not considered male or female piercings, and both sexes enjoy the look of having one. With the huge variety of barbells to choose from, people can use this piercing to accessorize their outfit quickly and easily.

Of course, the term "tongue rings" is very misleading since rarely is a tongue piercing adorned with a ring. The most common piece of jewelry for the tongue is a barbell. Today the barbells come in varying lengths and diameters to fit every tongue. Unlike many piercings where "wiggle room" is desired if not needed, a tongue piercing once healed should have a snug fitting barbell in place.

Correctly fitting tongue rings help with several areas of this piercing. First, because they fit snug to the tongue there is less of a chance that the metal barbell will damage the teeth. In fact, less than 5% of people with this piercing have reported dental damage caused by their tongue rings. Snugly fitting jewelry also prevents migration of the piercing in the tongue.

With the huge variety of tongue rings available today, one cannot only find the perfect size for their tongue, but they can also find the perfect look for their outfit or personality. If they are a simple person, then perhaps a basic stainless steel barbell would suit them best. If they are a bit more daring, they can move into the colored section of barbells. And for those who are really daring, the sky is the limit. Barbells for the tongue are available in everything from black to skulls to roses and everything in between.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Does Body Jewelry Make You Take Extra Risks?

Body jewelry is usually associated with body piercing. There are lots of styles available ranging from cute and sexy to exotic and tribal. The places that can be pierced and the type of jewelry worn are virtually endless. It seems that when a person moves beyond a traditional or conservative earlobe piercing that other people tend to think that this non-traditional self expression is a sign of rebellion. However, is the presence of body jewelry an indication that the person is willing to take extra risks?

That is a question that parents of teens battle with as their kids approach them for permission to get a piercing. They fear that a piercing such as a belly piercing, nose piercing or tongue piercing may be an indication that their teen is rebelling against their own parental values.

This is true in some cases; however, many teens simply say that the desire to wear different types of body jewelry is merely a form of personal preference and expression. Not a rebellion against their parents, just a sign that they want to have their own look even if they will keep their parents value system.

What risks youth may encounter in their quest to wear body jewelry is trying to do the piercing by themselves with a needle and a prayer. This is often not the best road to travel. The risks for infection are far greater than the risks of not gaining permission from your parents. Many teens see self piercing as the only alternative when their parents "just don't get it."

Does this mean that parents should open the gates and permit their kids to wear any type of body jewelry that they desire? Will this lead their kids to continue that push into getting permission for other behavior such as under-age drinking, smoking, or drugs? In other words, is body piercing the "gateway drug" for a rebel youth?

Probably not. But that is what many parent fear when their teens ask them about body jewelry. Youth often believe that nothing bad can happen to them. They are young, resilient and can handle anything including the risks of a self-piercing. As a parent you have the ability to lessen some of the risks that youth will consider. Most experts would agree that by educating yourself about body piercing and by understanding your child's motives and desires for this trend, a solution can be formed that will keep harmony in the house and enhance the relationship with your teen.

An organization fanatic, Julie loves finding creative ways to set her home (and yours!) to rights with practical products and efficient problem-solving. Tackle your closet with closet organizers and visit Space Savers for other great products sure to help with your clutter problem.

Original article

Tongue Rings Have Come A Long Way In The Past Two Decades

Tongue rings are now not only the third most popular of all piercings, but they have also become much safer to have done.

Tongue rings were once only rarely seen and people heard more often the horror stories about people who get it done. That has changed a lot over the past couple of decades. Tongue piercings have become much more common due mainly to safer standards in the piercing industry.

Where once people would actually get their tongues pierced at home by friends they now realize the importance of going to a professional who has done tongue rings before. Unlike other parts of the body that are commonly pierced, the tongue has two major veins running through it. If either of these veins is even nicked by the needle, it can cause severe blood loss.

Even when done correctly tongue rings still take two to six weeks to heal. It can take up to six months for the piercing to be fully healed. During this healing time, it is not uncommon for the tongue to swell. This is easily treated with cold drinks, sucking on ice and taking anti-inflammatory to bring the swelling down.

Also during the healing time, it is highly recommended that the pierced person refrain from alcohol, smoking, and making tongue contact with other people. Spicy food is also something to be avoided. And after doing any of the above, it is strongly suggested that they rinse their mouths with alcohol free mouthwash. Being such a warm moist environment, people who get tongue rings need to take extra care to avoid infection. They must also tighten the barbell daily to avoid it coming lose and them swallowing it.

It is commonly believed the tongue rings first got started at the Gauntlet. The Gauntlet was the first professional body piercing shop in the United States. Founder of the Gauntlet and body-piercing pioneer, Elayne Angel, is often given credit with popularizing the tongue rings.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Body Jewelry Is More Reversible Than Tattoos

One way many people express themselves is through tattoos and body jewelry. If you are interested in either of these forms of self-modification, you will have to do research to understand the procedures as well as the risks involved. While tattoos are less reversible than piercings, each should be considered permanent. As with anything permanent, you should not rush into the decision without giving plenty of time to think it over. Often times what can simply be a fad among friends can turn into a regret not long after. Try to avoid this scenario by being absolutely certain of your decision.

Next, you should be prepared for the pain of each procedure. Tattoos can be incredibly painful, depending upon the location on your body and the size of tattoo you end up going for. It's important to talk it over with the tattoo artist before you decide to go through with the procedure. They should be able to provide you with a realistic idea of the time involved as well as the pain you can expect. They also will give you directions on how to take care of the area after the procedure. You should be completely decided on your design choice when you arrive for your appointment to ensure you won't have any regrets. If you think you might change your mind, perhaps body jewelry is a better way to go.

Unlike tattoos, body jewelry is generally pretty reversible. If you end up deciding it's not for you, it can be fairly simple to take the piercing out and let the hole close up. Some areas of the body close faster than others. Tongue piercings can close in a matter of hours during the first year, so it's very easy to reverse should you change your mind. Like with tattoos, make sure you have the procedure done by a professional in a clean and sterile environment.

An organization fanatic, Julie loves finding creative ways to set her home (and yours!) to rights with practical products and efficient problem-solving. Tackle your closet with closet organizers and visit Space Savers for other great products sure to help with your clutter problem.

Original article

My Problem With Belly Button Rings

While I'm likely in the minority, some of you can probably relate. I'm a grown woman with children, yet my own mother has "gotten her groove back;" otherwise known as a mid-life crisis. This past year she's sold her sedate 4-door car for a sporty model. She's let her hair grow longer and raiding my closet during visits ostensibly to see the grandkids! Most horrifying of all - she's made subtle inquiries about belly button rings!

As children, we grow up making assumptions about our parents. We probably put them in neat little boxes with labels because they were always there, being our Cheerleader or Teacher, Chauffeur or Maid. Our parents were not seen as unique individuals with their own dreams and interests, or we discounted them in favor of our own interests. We didn't act out of meanness, we just didn't think of them as social animals.

Now my mom is in her late 50's and seems to have found her second wind. I'm proud that she's enjoying life and taking time for herself. But I'm just not sure I can handle the thought of her wearing belly button rings. My father may be gone, but she's still my mother and should act like it.

Not wanting to squelch her spirit, I decided to have a talk with her to find out why belly button rings were on her radar. In turns out her motivation is more toward showing off her diet and exercise accomplishments than any sort of statement. For the first time in her adult life, she felt comfortable in her own skin; she felt attractive and desirable. She thought belly button rings might be a way to demonstrate the freedom she was now feeling.

Thankfully, we arrived at a comfortable compromise. She's going to get highlights in her hair instead!

An organization fanatic, Julie loves finding creative ways to set her home (and yours!) to rights with practical products and efficient problem-solving. Tackle your closet with closet organizers and visit Space Savers for other great products sure to help with your clutter problem.

Original article

Belly Button Rings Are Here To Stay

Many people thought belly button rings were just a passing fad, but boy were they wrong.

Belly button rings are rather popular pieces of body jewelry to adorn. However, when they first came out, most people thought they were just another passing fad that would soon go away. Boy were they wrong!

Having body jewelry somewhere has become a unique fashion statement that people around the world and of all ages seem to be getting more and more. Piercings, namely belly button rings, are extremely popular with the younger generations. Most of us who are 20-something have at some point had more than just our ears pierced, with navel rings being more one of the more popular body piercings. But these piercings are not isolated to just us, not by a long shot. Younger generations are seeing body piercings as an acceptable practice that many are getting on board with, and even a few older generations can be seen sporting some kind of body jewelry.

Although seen on more girls than guys, navel rings are quickly becoming one of the more accepted piercings. That being said, creative minds have gotten to work on pumping out unique piece after unique piece to keep the masses happy with the unique statement that belly button rings can still make. So this about this, just because your entire block may have their navels pierced, doesn't mean that you will all have the same piece of jewelry dangling from your navel.

People young and old alike, well older than some anyway, are seeing the beauty of belly button rings. And they show no signs of going anywhere anytime soon. That means that this fashion statement once worn by society's rebels is now seen on everyone from your teenage daughter to your preschooler's teacher to the guy in the piercing parlor. They have crossed barriers that no other piercing has ever been able to do, aside from the ear of course. So have some fun and go get your own set of belly button rings today!

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Belly Button Rings Can Create a Painful Infection

If you are not careful, it's easy for a painful infection to develop in your belly piercing. You will want to do what you can to take care of the area and keep it clean.

Belly button rings can be a cute way to express yourself and show off your body. If you are thinking about taking the plunge or perhaps just had the procedure done, you should understand how to take care of your new piercing. The more vigilant you are in the beginning, the less chance you have to develop a painful infection. Because movement is common in the area and clothing brushes up against it, belly piercings can often take longer to heal. If you are involved in sports, you have to be especially careful. Tight sports uniforms and sweat can spell disaster for a healing piercing.

If you find that the piercing area is swollen, red, especially hot, or giving off a discharge, chances are it is infected. Try to keep the area as clean as possible and apply ice. If this persists for 72 hours, you should go to your doctor to have it checked out. Most of the time infections are completely preventable, but they can still occur even if you think you have done the right thing. Removing belly button rings from the infection area might make it improve. Sometimes your body could have a bad reaction to the jewelry itself, so it's never a bad idea to remove it. You should purchase a hypo-allergic metal before you try again.

If everything seems to be going fine, be careful with it. Try not to touch or play with your belly button rings when they are in. Clean out the wound with rubbing alcohol, which acts as a disinfectant and should help prevent an infection. You should notice things healing up within a month. If you are still feeling any pain or discomfort after that, consult your doctor or piercing professional. They should be able to take a look at you and tell you if it looks normal.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Belly Button Rings Are The Sexiest Of All The Piercings

Navel rings are truly the sexiest piercing due to where they are placed and what they hint at. Belly button rings seem innocent enough, but when you consider what the belly symbolizes, you just might change your mind.

The stomach has long been considered an erogenous zone due to the inherent differences between male and female stomachs. Female navels are softer and longer then male navels. They invite touches and glances.For centuries, women kept their bellies covered and out of sight. However, once it became acceptable to show off your stomach, women began flaunting it. And then they began decorating it.

Belly button rings weren't the first piece of jewelry for the female stomach, but they are probably the most well known in today's society. They are actually downright common now. Sixty years ago, women were just beginning to wear bikinis on the beach. Today you not only see hundreds of bikinis on the beach, you will also see hundreds of belly button rings on that same beach. They are now a fashion statement geared to draw attention to the female stomach.

Most people don't realize that while being a fashion statement, belly button rings are also designed to make people think of the woman as being more attractive. They are a subtle flirt built into jewelry form. The rings draw attention to the female navel. This in turn draws the subconscious to the not so nice thoughts. Without a doubt, they are geared to make the wearer look sexier. While a young woman may not realize this, that is what she is doing. And that is okay, because it's simply human nature. The female stomach is designed to attract people, and belly button rings make them all look even better than when they are just nakedly displayed in a short shirt. So embrace what they are and enjoy your cute navel.

An organization fanatic, Julie loves finding creative ways to set her home (and yours!) to rights with practical products and efficient problem-solving. Tackle your closet with closet organizers and visit Space Savers for other great products sure to help with your clutter problem.

Original article

Belly Button Piercing

Belly button piercing has become one of the most trendy directions in the body art. It is less traumatic than the rest of the perforations on the body and face - like nose, lips, breast and genitals perforations. Navel piercing came into fashion due to atop model Christy Turlington, who for the first time ever appeared on the podium with the pierced navel during one of the Fashion Weeks in London in the late eighties. The example of Christie turned out to be catchy and was followed by Naomi Campbell, who wanted to keep up with her rival and came onto the podium with a similar adornment in her navel the next day.

Belly Button piercing jewelry

Belly button piercing jewelry is usually made of such materials as surgical steel, titanium, silver and bioplastics. It can be made indifferent shapes like rings, micro barbells and so on. It is strongly recommended to wear a barbell right after a fresh perforation, which accelerates the healing process. With a barbell it goes much faster than with a belly button ring. And then you can insert into the pierced hole any other jewelry including belly button rings.

In the most cases for the navel piercing a special type of barbells is applied - the banana barbell, called so for its curved shape. There are also some other varieties of jewelry for the belly button piercing such as simple curved barbells, rings with ball-shaped locks, barbells with pendants and many others.

Experts do not recommend to use jewelry made of surgical steel right after perforation. Statistics shows that only fifteen percent of the perforations with these adornments heal without problems. The ideal option of jewelry for belly button piercing in the fresh perforations is jewelry made of gold and silver, but it is certainly much more expensive than the affordable models made of bioplastics and surgical steel. You may also purchase several various adornments made of different materials and change them to match your clothes or the way you feel at the moment. It is as easy as changing your earrings.

Belly Button piercing: types and aspects of treatment.

There are two basic types of belly button piercing - standard and multiple. In the standard type there is only one perforation of the navel, which is done strictly vertical. The pin is inserted into the hole so that to keep the upper ball slightly raised above the skin for about half a millimeter. Otherwise, the adornment will put pressure on the belly button and may cause a feeling of discomfort.

The multiple belly button piercing consists of a number of perforations. They shouldn't in any case be done simultaneously because the wounds healing may interfere with each other. Besides that, running to such extremes is fraught with all kinds of complications.

Healing of the perforations for the belly button piercing may last very long, because the waist is one of the most flexible parts of the body. Constant movement of the waist can injure fresh perforations. In addition, the navel is a place, where the body dirt amasses, which may cause a variety of infections.

Until the wounds heal, they should be daily washed with antibacterial soap, which contains triclosan. You don't have to pull your adornments out of the navel during this procedure. It is enough to move them up and down to let the solution penetrate into the wound. Afterwards the perforations are rinsed with clean water the same way. Rinsing the navel with salt water accelerates the healing process as well. The appropriate solution is prepared by dissolving of one teaspoon of salt in a quarter glass of warm boiled water. Lavender oil may also be used for this purpose.

Visit the Body Jewelry Shop qpiercing.com. We sell retail and wholesale high quality body piercing jewelry at good prices. At qpiercing.com you can find lip rings, tongue rings, belly button rings, ear plugs and ear tunnels, ear rings, piercing tools & piercing supplies and many more

Original article

Belly Button Rings Cross The Age And Gender Lines

Belly button rings once drew piercings out into the common sight of the world. They are now crossing new lines. Those are the lines of age and gender.

When first brought into the mainstream in the 1990's, belly button rings were seen mainly on women in their early twenties to thirties. Occasionally you would see one on a teenager, but more likely than not she just looked young.

Today belly button rings are not only for the young women. With today's population getting in and staying in better shape longer, more and more older women are having the confidence to bare their tummies.

And they don't just want to bare their stomachs; they want people to notice them. This is where belly button rings come into play. After months of hard work getting a gorgeously toned stomach, most women want to set it off with the perfect jewel. And after all, they deserve the attention after all that pain and work.

Now let's not forget about the men. With lines blurring between what is a "male" thing and what is a "female" thing, it isn't surprising that belly button rings have crossed over.

While still not seen every day, it is becoming more common to see men with their navels pierced. And just like the piercings began with young women, it seems to be mainly young men who are jumping on this wagon.

Take a walk on the beach in the summer and I am sure you will see several young men flaunting belly button rings. While their rings may be subtler than the average woman's, they are no less attractive. Nor are they there for any other reason. Just like women want to flaunt their toned stomachs and show off their hard work, men want to do the same.

As the lines continue to blur, belly button rings have become the next in a long line of things that are now common for either sex. They are in good company with nail polish, and mascara.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Are Belly Button Rings Part of Your Pregnancy Plan?

Pregnancy can bring some interesting changes to your body. Not only will you need to decide how to handle belly button rings and piercings, but you may also get the chance to create some unusual food menus. Get ready to laugh, even if it's at yourself, during this exciting time of your life.

Soon to be moms can do some pretty unusual things as they go through the stages of pregnancy. While getting a piercing and choosing belly button rings with rattles is not high on the list of suggestions, there are some other quite funny, acceptable, and even safe things to do and eat while you are pregnant.

Although a bit unusual, you may just have to laugh at the woman who painted a large red circle with a line running through it with the words "birth control" written in the center. This is to indicate that she and her partner followed the "no birth control" rule. However, it is uncertain if that was planned or the result of maybe one too many drinks. With a sense of humor like that it's hard to tell!

For those moms that already have a belly piercing there are belly button rings to wear that will accommodate a growing belly. When you get to a point where your normal belly bling is starting to pinch and feel uncomfortable, it's time to move to prenatal belly button rings or consider removing the jewelry completely until after you deliver. Getting a piercing while you are pregnant is not recommended.

Food cravings are often driven by changes in your hormones. While you may never think about eating crushed ice sprinkled with dust on a regular day, that baby growing inside of you may crave it. Or perhaps you will go to the deli and order a banana, onion and mayo sandwich. A quick run through the fast food window could reward you with French fries dipped in a chocolate maltshake.

From special belly button rings to special foods it is a good idea to keep a good sense of humor as you go through your pregnancy. Ask any parent and they will tell you that you will also need to keep that good sense of humor as your child grows up. After all, we all know that kids can eat some pretty unusual stuff too!

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

If Infection Develops, Remove Belly Button Rings

If you find yourself with a painful infection, it's often a good idea to remove your belly button rings to give your body a chance to heal. If things don't heal up, you may need to consult a doctor.

Belly button rings have become a popular piercing among young women. If you are interested in getting one, you should learn about the process as well as the after care. It is incredibly important to take care of your piercing. If the area gets dirty or comes in contact with bacteria, you can get a painful infection. Signs of an infection include swelling, redness, hotness as well as a release of pus. If you find yourself with an infection, you can use rubbing alcohol to try to keep the area clean. You may need to remove the piercing. If it doesn't improve, you will need to contact a doctor to get antibiotics. Once you have antibiotics, things should clear up in a few days.

If you are an athlete, belly button rings can often get in the way. You will want to avoid wearing any dangling jewelry from your naval that could get caught in some way. In addition, you need to be careful while the piercing is still healing. Excessive movement can cause an infection. Sweat can hurt the wound. A tight athletic uniform can make it difficult for the wound to heal. Often it is best to get the piercing in the off-season of your sport to ensure that it heals properly and help you reduce your chances of getting an infection.

While you should notice things healing up within the month, it may take one to two years before things are completely finished healing. You should be careful to not have your belly button rings out too long as the piercing hole can close up within a matter of hours. During this time it is especially crucial to keep the area clean. You should also monitor your skin for reactions to the jewelry. Everyone is different, and you never know how your body will respond.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Body Jewelry Online

In a moment, we will discuss body jewelry online. First, let's look at its history. Jewelry has a long and interesting history in the development of civilizations and human development, in general. In ancient times, the use of jewelry was used to symbolize the power of the social and religious citizens that wore them. It was also used to store a family's wealth, and so was transferred from parent to child as familial souvenirs. Some cultures used it as dowry or a convenient method for transfer of wealth.

In some cultures and tribes, jewelry was used to modify the body. As an example, in some African tribes, neck rings were added, over time, around a woman's neck. Over time, the neck would stretch to accommodate the pressure of the ever growing number of rings, thus giving the lady what her culture considered beautiful: a long neck. Unfortunately, this type of body alteration is permanent, as the woman will never be able to support her own head again without the rings. This is done in the name of beauty.

Although the use and history of jewelry seem varied and diverse, the most common denominator in all these activities is that the jewelry has been used for the expression of certain messages. Whether for beauty, power or status, jewelry was (and is) the easiest way to convey it. In these modern times, jewelry and its use evolved together over time, to find creative expression in today's body jewelry. Which leads us to finding quality body jewelry online.

Body jewelry is no longer confined to traditional jewelry items, per the usual earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets. In fact, the words, body jewelry, can be described as anything of certain intrinsic beauty that can be affixed to the human body in some fashion. But finding exactly what type of body adornment you want, in your local geographical area, can be an impossible treasure hunt. That's where body jewelry online comes in. There are a few great places out there, where you can find body jewelry online.

Just be aware of what you are looking at (in terms of quality jewelry) and where you surf to find jewelry online (legitimate informational sites that will lead to reputable jewelers who have just what you're looking for.

Jewelry can be made of plastic and other metals, but some are even just imitations of precious stones, which can be individually glued to preferred body parts in the direction and pattern of choice. There are, for example, kits available with select jewelry designs to copy when gluing them to your body. This, of course, is a temporary display and will either fall off eventually, or let go when washed.

Then there are the types of jewelry that involve a little more pain to wear, initially at first, anyway. Body piercing jewelry, such as the tongue stud or nose ring, is quite popular these days. In fact, it has become so much more commonplace, now, that few hardly notice and fewer still feel the need to comment.

Original article

How To Keep Your Belly Button Rings Clean And Sterile

An infection at the point of your navel piercing can be very painful and messy. One way to avoid this happening is to always clean and sterilize your belly button rings before each use.

If you have your navel pierced, you know how important it is to protect it from infection. An infection can be painful and messy and very hard to heal. It is worth the effort to keep the area clean and protected and part of doing that is making sure the jewelry you place there (i.e. rings, posts) is sterile before you put it in.

First, gather your supplies. You will need rubbing alcohol, water (a saline solution is even better, if you have it) and a small cup such as a medicine dosage cup but size doesn't really matter. Make sure the cup is clean.

Next, you need to sterilize yourself by washing your hands with an anti-bacterial soap. If you have sterile gloves, go ahead and use them but that is probably overkill for the home environment. Put a little rubbing alcohol in the bottom of the cup. Put the post or belly button ring in the cup and swish it around. Sometimes I will let it soak and come back in a few minutes but that is not required. Drain the cup of the alcohol and rinse with warm water or saline. Dry or dab with a clean paper towel. It is best not to dry with a used terry towel as they can retain germs and ruin your efforts thus far.

Now you are ready to use the sterile belly button ring. It doesn't hurt to wash your hands again and then remove your current jewelry and place to the side. Take a moment to clean the area. The best time to change your belly jewelry is after a shower because you know the area will be thoroughly clean. Put the newly sterilized belly button ring in place and you are done.

With other type of jewelry, I normally clean them all at once but it is best to sterilize your belly button rings individually right before use.

An organization fanatic, Julie loves finding creative ways to set her home (and yours!) to rights with practical products and efficient problem-solving. Tackle your closet with closet organizers and visit Space Savers for other great products sure to help with your clutter problem.

Original article

Belly Button Rings - What's In Your Collection?

Belly button rings don't have to be boring anymore. In fact, nowadays, you can have more fun with them than most earrings.

Navel rings can be found in the majority of jewelry boxes of younger women. However, with the growing number of styles, sizes, colors and designs, not all collections are complete.

If you have your belly button pierced, then you know how many choices you have for belly button rings. The more popular ones to choose from are curved barbells and loops, or captive bead rings (CBRs). But what makes them unique are the wide array of colors and designs available. You are no longer forced to have only two options: a silver-colored CBR or a silver-colored barbell.

Nowadays, you can have your navel rings match each one of your outfits, if that's your thing of course. And aside from the color variations, there are even ones that have dangling pendants hanging from them, much like dangling earrings. These fit nicely in your belly button and dangle down, creating a masterpiece of a person's abdomen.

If that weren't enough, there are belly button rings that come in a variety of designs. The more common, but still unique, pieces are the color and design variations of barbells. The post is still a silver-colored piece of metal, but the balls come in so many different colors and designs it's mind boggling! You can have anything from tie-dyed balls, to smiley faces, to more intricate pictures, all of which can be seen on the ends of these little barbells. And the best part is, you can mix and match them. You can have a blue and white swirled ball on the bottom and a rainbow swirl on top. The choice is yours.

So you see, belly button rings have come a long way in terms of colors and designs, that is one of the reasons this piercing has become so popular so quickly. So be sure to check your collection of belly button rings today to see what else you can add to this growing sensation.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article

Best Body Jewelry to Express Who You Are

Not sure what type of body jewelry to wear? Then maybe you should look to the stars. Astrology can guide you through life and guide your fashion choices. Understand your personality and match it with the best body bling for you.

Tongue rings, belly button rings, earrings, toe rings, and the list goes on. The choice of body jewelry is virtually endless. But how do you know which type of body jewelry is best for you. Maybe you need to look to the stars to discover what your astrology chart says about you.

Aries: March 22-April 20

You want to be the boss so nobody can limit you when it comes to your body jewelry choice. You may prefer a stud necklace or a stud tongue ring. It's your decision.

Taurus: April 21-May 20

You love sentiment. The jewelry that you choose will reflect a special memory which could be a place or a moment.

Gemini: May 21-June 20

You're independent and know a little bit about a lot of things. Your jewelry will reflect this. If you have an interest in tribal cultures, you will opt for tribal jewelry; if you have an interest in botanical gardens, you may get a rose belly ring or tattoo.

Cancer: June 21-July 22

You are tough on the outside but all sentiment on the inside. You may go for a skull and bones design ring but we wouldn't be surprised to find a tattoo of tweety bird on your hip.

Leo: July 23-August 22

You are comfortable in your world and love to be in the spotlight. A dangling diamond or crystal body jewelry would compliment your being.

Virgo: August 23-September 22

You are calm and collected on the surface but raging with passion just beneath your skin. The body jewelry you wear will be just as hot.

Libra: September 23-October 22

You are a romantic at heart but you may seem a little cynical on the outside. Various ear piercings or a nose piercing are an easy choice for you.

Scorpio: October 23-November 22

You are strong, aggressive and very forward. Show off your strengths with the body jewelry that you choose.

Sagittarius: November 23-December 21

You are independent and capable so any type of jewelry that you find attractive will fit you perfectly. Try a toe ring or an unusual precious stone in your pierced jewelry.

Capricorn: December 22-January 19

You love the comforts of home. The metal that you choose for your body jewelry will reflect the warmth of home.

Aquarius: January 20-February 21

You love freedom and enjoy the company of a variety of people. Your body jewelry will be of many styles since you will change it to match the mood that you are feeling on any given day.

Pisces: February 22-March 20

You are mysterious and attractive. Your body jewelry will be chosen by what moves you. You may go for an unusual design or material but you will wear it well.

Julie enjoys sharing health and beauty tips. A great resource for flat irons, curling irons and hair styling tools of all kinds is My Hair Styling Tools.

Original article