What is a Belly Button Piercing? Healing, Materials, and Aftercare
What is a navel piercing?
A navel piercing is a piercing through the upper part of the navel — the fold of skin above the belly button — from which jewelry is worn. Navel piercings are one of the most popular body piercings in the world and are worn as a fashion accessory, personal statement, or cultural symbol. They are available in a variety of styles: from simple barbells to intricate designs with gemstones or charms. Check out our piercings collection for navel piercings in titanium and surgical steel.
History of the navel piercing
Navel piercings have a long history in various cultures. In ancient Egypt, the navel was considered a sacred body part — only pharaohs and members of the royal family were allowed to have their navel pierced. In India, navel piercings have been part of traditional jewelry and dance for centuries. In the Western world, navel piercings became popular in the 1990s, partly due to the rise of midriff fashion and celebrities like Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington wearing them on the catwalk.
Materials for navel piercings
Titanium — the safest choice. 100% nickel-free, lightweight, and extremely strong. Ideal for new piercings and people with a nickel allergy. 316L surgical steel — durable and low-nickel. Safe for 90% of people with a nickel allergy. The most common choice for navel piercings. 925 sterling silver — nickel-free and suitable for healed piercings. Not recommended for new piercings due to its softness. Bioplast — flexible plastic, ideal during pregnancy as the belly grows. Read more on our nickel allergy explanation page.
Healing time and aftercare
A navel piercing heals slower than ear piercings due to its location and movement. The average healing time is 6 to 12 months, sometimes longer. Aftercare tips: clean twice daily with sterile saline solution (0.9% NaCl); avoid twisting or pulling the piercing; wear loose clothing that doesn't rub against the piercing; avoid swimming pools, jacuzzis, and the sea during healing; be patient — a navel piercing may seem quickly healed, but the inside needs more time.
Frequently asked questions about navel piercings
- How much does a navel piercing hurt?
- The pain is described as a short, sharp sting followed by a slight throbbing sensation. Navel piercings are generally considered less painful than cartilage piercings. The pain is short-lived and well-tolerated.
- How long does a navel piercing take to heal?
- The average healing time is 6 to 12 months. During this time, a good aftercare routine is essential. Only change the jewelry after complete healing.
- What material is best for a new navel piercing?
- Titanium or 316L surgical steel are the safest choices for a new navel piercing. Both are hypoallergenic and minimize the risk of infection and allergic reactions.
- Can I wear a navel piercing during pregnancy?
- Yes, but switch to a flexible bioplast navel piercing in time as your belly grows. Bioplast is flexible and adapts to the growing belly without putting pressure on the piercing.
- Can I swim with a navel piercing?
- Avoid swimming pools, jacuzzis, and the sea during healing — chlorine and bacteria can cause infections. After complete healing, you can swim normally. Rinse with clean water afterward.