Belly rings are a popular form of body jewelry, but they can be tricky to remove, especially if you’re not used to doing it. If you’re planning on taking your belly ring out, it’s important to know how to do it safely and correctly. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to unscrew a belly ring, as well as some tips on how to make the process easier.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather a few supplies. You’ll need a pair of pliers, a cotton ball, and some rubbing alcohol. Once you have your supplies, you can begin the process of unscrewing your belly ring. First, use the pliers to grasp the bottom ball of the belly ring. Then, gently twist the ball counterclockwise until it comes loose. Once the bottom ball is loose, you can use your fingers to unscrew the top ball. Be careful not to overtighten the balls, as this can damage the jewelry.
Once the belly ring is unscrewed, you can remove it from your body. To do this, simply pull the ring straight out of your piercing. If the ring is stuck, you can use a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol to help loosen it up. Once the ring is removed, you can clean it with rubbing alcohol and store it in a safe place.
Identifying the Type of Belly Ring
To safely and effectively unscrew your belly ring, the first step is to identify its type. Different types of belly rings have distinct designs and mechanisms for opening and closing. Determining the correct method for your specific ring will help prevent damage or injury.
Barbell with Screw-On Balls
The most common type of belly ring consists of a curved barbell with screw-on balls at both ends. These balls are typically secured by external or internal threading.
External Threading: The threads are visible on the outside of the ball and screw onto the barbell from the outside. This type of ring is easy to remove, as you simply unscrew the balls by hand.
Internal Threading: The threads are located inside the ball, with the barbell passing through the center. To unscrew internal threaded balls, you will need the assistance of a special piercing tool or a pair of pliers.
| Thread Type | Description |
|---|---|
| External | Threads visible on outside of ball, unscrew by hand |
| Internal | Threads inside ball, unscrew with piercing tool or pliers |
Gathering the Necessary Tools
Before you begin the process of unscrewing your belly ring, it’s important to ensure you have all the necessary tools to complete the task safely and effectively. These may include:
1. A Pair of Small Pliers
A pair of small, needle-nose pliers is essential for effectively gripping and unscrewing the ball or other attachment at the end of the belly ring. The pliers should be small enough to fit comfortably around the ball without damaging it.
2. A Clean Cotton Swab or Gauze
A clean cotton swab or gauze pad is recommended for wiping away any dirt or lubricant from the belly ring before unscrewing it. This helps to prevent any debris from getting into the piercing hole and potentially causing irritation or infection.
3. Saline Solution or Antibacterial Soap
After unscrewing the belly ring, it’s crucial to clean it thoroughly to prevent infection. A saline solution or mild antibacterial soap can effectively remove any bacteria or debris that may have accumulated on the jewelry.
4. Optional: Jewelry Cleaner
If desired, you can use a jewelry cleaner specifically designed for body jewelry to remove any tarnishing or discoloration on the belly ring. However, this step is not necessary.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Small Pliers | Grip and unscrew the ball or attachment |
| Cotton Swab or Gauze | Clean the belly ring and piercing hole |
| Saline Solution or Soap | Disinfect the belly ring |
| Jewelry Cleaner (Optional) | Remove tarnish or discoloration |
Adjusting the Tension of the Closure
If the closure is too tight, it can be uncomfortable and put pressure on the piercing. If it is too loose, the jewelry could fall out. The ideal tension is one that is snug enough to keep the jewelry in place, but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
Tightening the Closure
To tighten the closure, simply twist the top and bottom pieces in opposite directions. You should feel resistance as you twist, but it should not be so tight that you cannot move the pieces.
Loosening the Closure
To loosen the closure, simply twist the top and bottom pieces in the same direction. Again, you should feel resistance as you twist, but it should not be so tight that you cannot move the pieces.
Finding the Right Tension
The best way to find the right tension for your closure is to experiment. Start by tightening the closure until it is snug against your skin. If it is too tight, loosen it slightly. If it is too loose, tighten it slightly.
Once you have found the right tension, you can lock the closure in place by twisting the top piece until it clicks. This will prevent the closure from loosening on its own.
Here is a table that summarizes the steps for adjusting the tension of the closure:
| To tighten the closure | To loosen the closure |
|---|---|
| Twist the top and bottom pieces in opposite directions | Twist the top and bottom pieces in the same direction |
Using Pliers for Stubborn Rings
If you’re struggling to unscrew a belly ring with your fingers, pliers can be a helpful tool. However, it’s important to use them carefully to avoid damaging the ring or your skin.
- Stabilize the Ring: Hold the top ball of the ring firmly with one hand and use your other hand to grip the bottom ball with the pliers.
- Protect the Ring: Place a cloth or rubber band between the pliers and the ring to prevent scratching or damage.
- Apply Pressure: Use the pliers to apply gentle pressure to the bottom ball of the ring, and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew it.
- Avoid Over-Tightening: Don’t apply excessive force, as this can strip the threads on the ring or damage the pliers.
- Multiple Grips: If you can’t unscrew the ring with a single grip, try holding the pliers at different points along the bottom ball. This can sometimes provide more leverage to break the ring loose.
- Alternative Method: If the pliers aren’t working, you can try using a pair of tweezers to grip the bottom ball of the ring and unscrew it. This method may be less effective, but it can be useful if you don’t have pliers available.
- After Unscrewing: Once you’ve successfully unscrewed the belly ring, be sure to clean it thoroughly before reinserting it.
Handling Skin Sensitivity
If you experience skin sensitivity after piercing your belly button, it is important to take proper care to avoid infection and discomfort. Here are some tips for handling skin sensitivity around your belly ring:
- Clean the piercing regularly: Use a gentle antibacterial soap and water solution to clean the piercing twice a day. Avoid using harsh chemicals or rubbing the area excessively.
- Apply a compress: Soak a clean washcloth in warm water and apply it to the piercing for a few minutes at a time. This can help soothe and reduce inflammation.
- Use a saline solution: Mix 1/4 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water to create a saline solution. Soak a cotton ball in the solution and hold it against the piercing for 5-10 minutes twice a day.
- Avoid using topical antibiotics: Over-the-counter topical antibiotics can kill the good bacteria that help protect the piercing. Use them only if prescribed by a doctor.
- Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing can irritate the piercing and make it more difficult to heal. Wear loose, breathable fabrics to minimize friction and promote air circulation.
- Consider hypoallergenic jewelry: If you are experiencing a reaction to your belly ring, it may be made of a material that your skin is allergic to. Consider switching to a hypoallergenic option such as titanium or surgical steel.
- Moisturize the area: Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to the skin around the piercing to keep it hydrated and reduce dryness.
- Avoid swimming: Chlorine and other chemicals in swimming pools can irritate the piercing. Avoid swimming until it is fully healed.
If your skin sensitivity persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional. They can assess the piercing, rule out any underlying medical conditions, and provide appropriate treatment.
Disinfecting the Ring and Piercing
Before removing your belly ring, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean the piercing site and the jewelry to prevent any infection. Here’s a step-by-step guide to disinfecting both:
Cleaning the Piercing Site
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water.
2. Gather sterile saline solution, a cotton ball, and a clean towel.
3. Moisten the cotton ball with saline solution and gently wipe the piercing site and surrounding area.
4. Use a clean towel to pat the area dry.
Disinfecting the Belly Ring
1. Soak the belly ring in a solution of warm water and antiseptic for at least 10 minutes.
2. Use a clean toothbrush or cotton swab to gently scrub the surface of the ring, removing any dirt or debris.
3. Rinse the ring thoroughly with sterile saline solution.
Additional Precautions
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
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Inserting a New Belly Ring
Inserting a new belly ring can be done with a few simple steps. First, clean the area around your belly button with soap and water. Next, take the new belly ring and insert the small end of the barbell into the hole in your belly button. Then, take the larger end of the barbell and screw it onto the small end. Be sure to tighten it securely, but not too tight. Finally, clean the area around your belly button again with soap and water.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Clean the area around your belly button with soap and water.
3. Take the new belly ring and insert the small end of the barbell into the hole in your belly button.
4. Take the larger end of the barbell and screw it onto the small end.
5. Be sure to tighten it securely, but not too tight.
6. Clean the area around your belly button again with soap and water.
Tips
* If you have difficulty inserting the belly ring, try using a lubricant, such as petroleum jelly.
* Be careful not to overtighten the belly ring, as this can cause pain and irritation.
* If you experience any pain or irritation, remove the belly ring and consult a doctor.
How to Take Out a Belly Ring
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Clean the area around your belly button with soap and water.
3. Hold the belly ring firmly with one hand and unscrew the larger end of the barbell.
4. Once the larger end is unscrewed, gently pull the belly ring out of your belly button.
5. Clean the area around your belly button again with soap and water.
Aftercare Instructions
Once your belly ring is removed, it’s important to follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent infection. Here are some tips:
- Clean the piercing site gently with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh soaps or antibacterial washes.
- Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or a saline solution to the piercing site twice a day.
- Keep the piercing site dry and clean. Avoid wearing clothing that rubs against the piercing and avoid swimming or soaking in water.
- Avoid touching or playing with the piercing while it’s healing.
- If you experience any pain, swelling, or redness around the piercing, consult with your healthcare professional promptly.
9. Healing Time
The healing time for a belly button piercing can vary depending on individual factors. However, it typically takes anywhere from 6 to 12 months for the piercing to fully heal. During this time, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions carefully and avoid any activities that may irritate the piercing.
| Healing Phase | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Initial Piercing | 4-6 weeks |
| Healing | 6-12 months |
| Full Healing | 12-18 months |
Tips for Easy Unscrewing
First, wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water to avoid introducing any bacteria into the piercing.
2. Use the Correct Tool
A 16-gauge ball closure ring is the most common type of belly ring, and it can be opened and closed by hand. However, if you have a smaller gauge ring or a captive bead ring, you will need to use a pair of pliers.
3. Grip the Bead Firmly
Use your thumb and forefinger to grip the bead on the bottom of the ring. Be careful not to grip the ring itself, as this could damage it.
4. Twist the Bead Counterclockwise
Slowly twist the bead counterclockwise until it comes off the ring. Do not force the bead, as this could break it.
5. Remove the Ring
Once the bead is removed, the ring should come out easily. If it does not, gently wiggle the ring back and forth until it comes out.
6. Clean the Piercing
After you have removed the ring, clean the piercing with a sterile saline solution. This will help to prevent infection.
7. Insert the New Ring
If you are changing the ring, insert the new ring into the piercing. Make sure that the ring is the correct size and gauge.
8. Screw on the Bead
Screw the bead onto the ring until it is tight. Do not overtighten the bead, as this could damage the ring.
9. Check for Tightness
Gently tug on the ring to make sure that it is secure. The ring should not move around or come out easily.
10. Aftercare
Keep the piercing clean and dry. Wash the piercing with a sterile saline solution twice a day. Avoid touching or playing with the piercing. Do not use harsh soaps or chemicals on the piercing. If you experience any redness, swelling, or pain, see a doctor immediately.
How To Unscrew Belly Ring
To unscrew a belly ring, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position.
- Locate the two small balls on the bottom of the belly ring.
- Hold the bottom ball of the ring with one hand and the top ball with the other hand.
- Turn the top ball counterclockwise to unscrew it.
- Once the top ball is unscrewed, remove the belly ring from your piercing.
If you are having difficulty unscrewing the belly ring, you can try using a pair of pliers. However, be careful not to squeeze the pliers too tightly, as this could damage the ring.
People Also Ask About How To Unscrew Belly Ring
How often should I clean my belly ring?
You should clean your belly ring at least once a day with soap and water. You can also use a commercial piercing cleaner.
Can I change my belly ring after it has been pierced?
Yes, you can change your belly ring after it has been pierced. However, you should wait at least 6 weeks after the piercing before you change it. This will give the piercing time to heal properly.
What if my belly ring gets infected?
If your belly ring gets infected, you should see a doctor. The doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection.
