Caring for Organic Jewelry

One of the biggest sellers Wicked Body Jewelz has is our large collection of Organic Body Jewelry.  They are beautiful, unique, and we have them for some of the best prices around.  However, they stand out from metal and acrylic in more than just looks, they are a lot healthier for healed piercings.  They are more porous than metal which allows the piercing to breath, and with the rougher texture it toughens up the piercing and keeps the smell to a minimum.  As with most things, lots of pro's usually come with a few con's.  While they look and feel great, they do require a little upkeep to make sure they last.

Here are some tips to keep your organic plugs in tip top shape:

1. Clean them - Not just a quick rinse off in the shower, actually take them out and wash them.  Make sure to use non-scented, non-chemical, antibacterial soap (the regular gold Dial hand soap is perfect) and warm water.  
2. Oil does wonders - Tea tree oil, emu, vitamin e, jojoba, or mineral oils can come in handy with organic jewelry.  Use a small amount (you want the oil to be absorbed, not drip off) once a week to keep your jewelry looking and feeling fresh.
3. Keep them smooth - Wood jewelry is very porous and therefor absorbs a lot of water when showering or bathing. When the jewelry absorbs the water it will expand then contract once it's dry, as this happens it tends to rough up the edges a bit. As this happens, simply take a high grit sandpaper (ask anyone at a hardware store for a 300 grit or higher and it should do the trick) and lightly sand the rough areas until you can run your fingernail across it without it catching. After that, wash it with soap and water, dry it, then oil it.
   
4. As for handling them, treat them like a child - you wouldn't drop a child, leave a child in a car in the heat, etc. Make sure to avoid those things with your organic jewelry. Sudden changes in temperature can lead to warping or cracking of the jewelry so don't take them in the sauna, don't leave them in the car in the sun, and try to avoid using your stone plugs as little reusable ice cubes for mixed drinks. And since your organic plugs are more fragile than metal and acrylic, try not to drop them.
   
5. Chemicals are not fun - Again, organic jewelry is much more porous than other jewelry, so it tends to absorb whatever you put on it. This isn't too bad with water, but when it comes to chemicals; hair bleach, coloring shampoos, hairspray, etc., you don't want those being absorbed. Not only will it damage or discolor the jewelry, but over time it will seep out of the jewelry and into your piercing. Not exactly what you want entering your body.
   

That being said, just take care of your jewelry and it will be great to you. 

Until next time
Miles...