20% Of Body Piercings May Become Infected

According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, researchers have found that the wildly popular fashion statement, body piercing, is relatively safe, although about 20% of piercings become infected. Patients with piercings in a variety of areas, including the ear, nose, mouth, nipple, navel and genital area of both men and women, were examined. Researchers found that infections, although treatable, were the most common complication. Allergies and scarring were also observed.