If you have a navel piercing, you’ll eventually need to take out your belly button ring for cleaning, changing jewelry, or letting a piercing close. While it may seem daunting the first time, removing a navel ring is simple with some basic tools and proper technique.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview of how to remove a belly button ring: Wash your hands thoroughly, grasp the ring with your fingers, rotate it back and forth while pulling gently to unscrew the ball. Then slide the ring out carefully through the piercing.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll review the supplies needed, how to locate the ball closure, step-by-step instructions for unscrewing the ball and removing the ring, aftercare once the ring is out, and what to do if you encounter any problems getting the belly ring out.
Gather the Necessary Removal Supplies
Before attempting to remove a belly button ring, it is important to gather all the necessary supplies. This will ensure that the process goes smoothly and minimizes any potential complications. Here are the essential items you will need:
Clean paper towels
Having clean paper towels nearby is important for maintaining hygiene during the removal process. They can be used to clean the area around the belly button before and after removing the ring.
Mild soap
Using a mild soap is crucial for cleaning both the belly button and the jewelry itself. It is important to avoid harsh soaps or cleansers as they can irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction.
Q-tips
Q-tips are perfect for cleaning hard-to-reach areas around the belly button. They can be used to apply soap or saline solution and gently clean the piercing site.
Gloves (optional)
While not necessary, wearing gloves during the removal process can provide an added layer of cleanliness. Gloves can help prevent the spread of bacteria and minimize the risk of infection.
Remember, it is important to keep these supplies clean and within reach before starting the removal process. This will ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Find the Removable Ball Closure
When taking out a belly button ring, the first step is to locate the removable ball closure. This is the part of the ring that can be unscrewed or popped out to remove the jewelry. To find the ball closure, follow these steps:
Look for a ball or gem
Most belly button rings have a ball or gem on one end that acts as a closure. This ball is usually larger than the rest of the ring and can be easily seen. It may also have a flat top or a small indentation for gripping. Look closely at your belly button ring to identify the ball or gem.
Identify internal or external threads
Belly button rings can have either internal or external threads on the ball closure. Internal threads mean that the threads are on the inside of the ball, while external threads mean that the threads are on the outside of the ball.
To identify the type of threading your belly button ring has, gently twist the ball in both directions. If it feels loose and starts to unscrew, it has external threads. If it feels tight and doesn’t unscrew easily, it has internal threads.
It’s important to note that not all belly button rings have removable ball closures. Some may have other types of closures, such as hinged or clip-on mechanisms. If you’re unsure about how to remove your specific belly button ring, it’s best to consult a professional piercer for assistance.
For more information on belly button rings and body piercing, you can visit the Association of Professional Piercers website. They provide valuable resources and guidelines for safe body piercing practices.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Take Out the Ring
Wash hands thoroughly
Before attempting to remove your belly button ring, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly. This will help prevent any bacteria or dirt from getting into the piercing and causing an infection. Use warm water and soap to clean your hands, making sure to scrub for at least 20 seconds.
Rinse well and dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel.
Grasp ball end
Once your hands are clean, locate the ball end of your belly button ring. This is the end that is visible on the outside of your navel. Gently grasp the ball between your thumb and forefinger, making sure to get a firm grip without squeezing too tightly.
If your ring has a threaded ball, you can use a pair of clean latex gloves or a tissue to get a better grip.
Gently twist and pull ball end
With a firm grip on the ball end, gently twist it counterclockwise to loosen it. This may take a bit of effort, especially if the ball has been tightened securely. Once the ball is loose, continue to twist it until it comes off completely.
Be careful not to apply too much pressure or force, as this can cause pain or discomfort.
Slowly slide ring out
After removing the ball end, you can now slide the ring out of your belly button. Hold onto the top part of the ring with your fingers and slowly and gently pull it downwards. If you encounter any resistance or pain, stop and consult a professional piercer for assistance.
It is important to take your time and be gentle to avoid any injury or damage to the piercing.
Remember, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with removing your belly button ring, it is always best to seek the help of a professional piercer. They have the expertise and knowledge to safely remove the ring without causing any harm to your piercing.
Caring for Your Navel Piercing Once Ring is Out
After removing your belly button ring, it’s important to continue caring for your navel piercing to ensure proper healing and prevent any complications. Here are some steps you can follow:
Clean piercing site
Even without the ring, it’s crucial to keep the piercing site clean to avoid infections. Gently clean the area with a mild saline solution or sea salt soak twice a day. Avoid using harsh soaps or alcohol-based products, as they can irritate the skin.
Pat the area dry with a clean towel or let it air dry.
Let piercing breathe
Removing the belly button ring allows the piercing to breathe and promotes better healing. Make sure to keep the area free from tight clothing or anything that may put pressure on it. Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or any body of water that may contain bacteria until the piercing is fully healed.
Consider replacing jewelry
If you plan on reinserting a belly button ring in the future, it’s important to wait until the piercing is fully healed before doing so. This generally takes about 6-9 months. In the meantime, you can consider wearing a non-metallic placeholder, such as a bioplast or PTFE bar, to keep the piercing open and prevent it from closing up.
Remember, everyone’s healing process is different, so it’s essential to listen to your body and consult with a professional piercer or healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.
Tips for Dealing with a Stuck Belly Ring
Removing a belly button ring can sometimes be a tricky process, especially if it has become stuck. Here are some helpful tips to assist you in safely and effectively taking out your stubborn belly ring.
Try latex gloves for grip
If your belly button ring is stuck, one simple solution is to try wearing a pair of latex gloves. The gloves will provide you with a better grip on the ring, making it easier to twist and remove. The added friction from the gloves can help loosen the ring, allowing you to take it out without causing any discomfort.
Soak in warm water
Another method to loosen a stuck belly ring is by soaking your belly button in warm water. Fill a clean basin or a shallow dish with warm water and immerse your belly button in it. The warmth will help relax the skin and tissues around the ring, making it easier to slide out.
You can also add a few drops of mild soap to the water for extra lubrication.
Use pliers carefully
If the above methods don’t work, you can try using a pair of pliers to remove the belly ring. However, it is crucial to exercise caution while doing this to avoid causing injury or damaging the jewelry.
Wrap the jaws of the pliers with a soft cloth or use a pair of specialized jewelry pliers with smooth, non-serrated tips. Gently grip the ring with the pliers and twist it counterclockwise to loosen it. If you experience any resistance or pain, stop immediately and seek professional assistance.
Visit your piercer
If all else fails and you are still unable to remove the belly ring, it is advisable to visit your piercer. They have the experience and tools necessary to safely remove the jewelry without causing any harm.
A professional piercer can also inspect the area for any signs of infection or other complications and provide appropriate guidance for further care.
Remember, patience and gentleness are key when dealing with a stuck belly ring. Rushing or using excessive force can lead to injury or damage. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with removing the ring yourself, always consult a professional for assistance.
Conclusion
With some gentle care and patience, anyone can easily remove their navel piercing jewelry. Make sure your hands are clean, locate the ball closure, grip it firmly, and twist while pulling out. follow our step-by-step guide for seamless removal and aftercare.
Taking out your belly ring occasionally is key to keeping your piercing healthy and happy.
