I got a great question from a colleague I know from the annual conferences for the Association of Professional Piercers:

Hey Elayne

Piercing question - Betadine leaves a brown mess, what do you clean it off with so people don't leave with a big yellow/brown patch on their face? Alcohol wipes?
 
Peace, C.

Hi C.,

No! Not alcohol--that could sting if it gets too close to the new piercing and is far too harsh for a fresh piercing. And removing the unattractive coloration isn't just an aesthetic issue. All iodine should be removed from the area after the piercing is done to prevent skin irritation.

I use these awesome sterile saline pads that come individually wrapped in foil packets. It is the BEST part of a piercing, because when you put it on, it cools the area and is very effective to help relieve any stinging or heat sensations. The pads are so cool it is almost as though they have been refrigerated, but that's just how they feel when they come out of the packet.

So, they serve double duty: soothing the piercing, and for clean up! I've used PDI brand and can't say enough good things about them. It is wonderful to have something effective to use when someone is experiencing discomfort in the aftermath of a piercing. Clients frequently emit an audible sigh or exclamation of relief. They are especially wonderful for ear cartilage, nipple, and genital piercings. (I don't have a studio any longer, as I imagine you know....though I do guest pierce around the US and I like to use them for all of my piercings.)

Let me know if you have any other questions. I'll be happy to help.

Sincerely,
Elayne

P.S. I also found these other saline pads, which I think are the same and they are at a really great price.