Irritation bump and keloid during piercing

Have you got a bump on your piercing and are wondering if it is an irritation bump or a keloid? It's a common question. Here we go over the differences, why they occur and how to treat them properly.

What is an irritant bump?

An irritant bump is a common reaction to piercing and occurs when the area becomes irritated. It can be caused by pressure, friction, the wrong jewelry or lack of aftercare. The bump is often small, red or skin-colored and may be sore.

On the positive side, an irritation bump is usually temporary and will disappear with proper care.

What is a keloid?

A keloid is a form of scarring where the body produces too much scar tissue. It can grow outside the piercing itself and often becomes firm and prominent.

Keloids are rare but permanent and may require medical treatment.

The difference between an irritant bump and a keloid

Irritation bump: Temporary, minor, caused by irritation
Keloid: Permanent, larger, grows over time
Irritation bump: Usually disappears with proper aftercare
Keloid: Rarely disappears without treatment

Why do you get a bump when piercing?

Wrong size or material of the jewelry
Pressure (e.g. sleeping on the piercing)
Touching or twisting the jewelry
Poor or incorrect aftercare
External irritation (headphones, clothes, etc.)

How to get rid of an irritation bump?

Clean with saline solution 1-2 times a day
Avoid touching or twisting the jewelry
Reduce pressure and friction
Check that the jewelry fits correctly
Visit a professional piercer if needed

When to seek help?

If the lump is growing rapidly
If it is very painful
If it does not go away despite proper care
If it looks like a hard, growing scar

Get help from piercing professionals

We help customers with irritation bumps and piercing problems daily in our studios in Helsingborg (Väla) and Malmö (Triangeln). With the right advice and jewelry, we can often improve healing quickly.

Visit us for a check-up or advice.