Eyebrow piercings are a popular form of body modification, but developing a bump near the jewelry is a common issue. These small, localized swellings are the body’s natural response to the trauma of the piercing process or subsequent irritation. Understanding the nature of the bump is the first step toward effective treatment and successful healing. Most piercing bumps can be resolved with consistent, gentle care.
Identifying the Different Types of Bumps
The appearance of a bump offers clues about its cause, helping determine the best course of action. The most frequent type is the irritation bump, or piercing pustule, which appears quickly and is often small and fluid-filled. These bumps are typically red or pink and tender, signaling a localized reaction to minor trauma or friction. They are an inflammatory response that may contain clear or whitish fluid.
A more persistent type is hypertrophic scarring, an overproduction of collagen confined to the original piercing site boundary. This tissue is firm, raised, and can be flesh-colored or reddish, usually developing weeks or months after the initial piercing. This differs from a keloid, a rare, severe form of scarring that grows aggressively beyond the wound boundary and requires medical intervention.
A severe complication is an infection, presenting with symptoms beyond a simple bump. An infected site is characterized by increased pain, significant swelling, and warmth. The discharge is often thick, yellow, or green, sometimes accompanied by a foul odor. Systemic symptoms, such as fever or chills, indicate a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Common Causes and Prevention
Bumps commonly form when the piercing site is subjected to physical trauma, triggering an inflammatory response. Accidentally snagging the jewelry on clothing, towels, or while sleeping is a frequent cause of irritation. Even subtle pressure, like sleeping on the piercing or repeatedly touching it, can introduce bacteria and create friction.
The material and fit of the jewelry also play a significant role. Low-quality metals, particularly those containing nickel, can cause an allergic reaction, resulting in contact dermatitis and subsequent bump formation. Using implant-grade materials like titanium or surgical steel helps reduce the risk of adverse reactions. Jewelry that is too tight or too loose can constantly rub against the fistula, causing chronic irritation.
Preventative aftercare focuses on minimizing trauma and maintaining a clean environment without being overly aggressive. Cleaning should be done gently, avoiding harsh products like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or strong ointments that can damage healing tissue. Securing hair away from the piercing and being mindful of makeup application prevents the introduction of irritants and debris.
Step-by-Step At-Home Remedies
For treating irritation bumps and hypertrophic scarring, consistent application of sterile saline solution is the recommended first-line treatment. Prepare a saline soak by dissolving 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in one cup of warm distilled water. The warmth increases blood flow, while the saline gently cleanses the area and draws out excess fluid.
To apply the soak, saturate a clean gauze or paper towel with the solution and hold it against the bump for five to ten minutes, one to two times daily. After soaking, the piercing should be gently patted dry with a clean, disposable paper product, as cotton towels can harbor bacteria or snag the jewelry. Consistency is more effective than aggressive cleaning, and over-cleaning can actually exacerbate the irritation.
Warm compresses, without added salt, can also be used to reduce swelling and increase circulation. Applying a warm compress for a few minutes daily aids in fluid drainage and tissue reduction. For persistent hypertrophic scars, a highly diluted tea tree oil mixture may be considered as a secondary treatment, but caution is necessary. This powerful oil must be diluted with a carrier oil (such as jojoba or coconut oil) using a conservative ratio of one part tea tree oil to four parts carrier oil, applied directly to the bump once a day.
Finally, assess the jewelry itself to ensure it is not the source of the problem. If the initial swelling has subsided but the jewelry is still too long, the excess movement can cause continuous irritation and bump reformation. Consulting with a professional piercer to have the jewelry appropriately downsized can remove the persistent source of friction and allow the bump to resolve.
Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While most bumps are manageable at home, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. The most urgent red flags relate to infection, which can spread quickly in the facial area. These signs include a fever, chills, or red streaks radiating outward from the piercing site.
Extreme or rapidly increasing pain that does not subside, coupled with thick, discolored discharge, indicates an infection needing intervention. If the bump is growing rapidly, is hot to the touch, or persists for several weeks despite diligent at-home care, consult a medical professional. A physician may prescribe oral antibiotics to clear a bacterial infection.
If an infection is present, the jewelry should generally be left in place unless explicitly instructed otherwise by a doctor. Removing the jewelry prematurely can cause the surface holes to close, trapping the infection inside the tissue and potentially leading to an abscess. In the rare case of a true keloid, a dermatologist will need to provide treatment, often involving corticosteroid injections or other specialized procedures.