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Navel rings were more than just jewelry, they were a sign of rebellion.
Photos: Getty Images
Ive loved my piercing ever since, even getting my own little globe belly ring at one point.
Also: The new silhouettes made it harder to heal without irritation.
And theyre not the only ones.
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How is the new take on belly button piercings different?
Floating navel piercing with ornate jewelry
Floating navel piercing with hanging chain
Floating navel piercing
More of a maximalist?
Stacking multiple navel piercings for a more decorated finish is also an option.
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Some clients pierce both the top and bottom flap, then align the jewelry vertically, says Tash.
you might even pierce the top or bottom flap diagonally for a different effect.
Though less familiar, lower-navel piercings are also an option, if that suits your aesthetic.
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Ellis also looks at how the tissue adjusts in different positions.
Multiple closed-hoop rings in a single piercing is a look thats also trending, according to Rahim.
Navel piercings can take several months to heal, says Milan.
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To avoid complications, proper care is essential, including regular cleaning and avoiding certain activities until healed.
Things like rigorousexercise, swimming, or tight clothing can irritate the piercing.
Does getting a belly button piercing hurt?
Floating navel piercing with ornate jewelry
What should I expect?
The piercing is very quick and feels like a pinch, says Tash.
I think getting pierced is easier than gettingwaxed!
Floating navel piercing with hanging chain
(I agreemine wasfarless painful than a bikini wax, but slightly more painful than a bee sting.)
Well do a gentle cleaning [of the area], then make a precise marking, says Ellis.
Youll inhale, exhale, and just like that, you have a belly button piercing!
Floating navel piercing
Avoid cleaning the area with cotton balls, as the fibers can cause complications.
Myhealing processwasnt too difficult.
During my dailyshowers, Id give the area a gentle cleaning with unscented soap.
Floating navel piercing
How long does it take for a navel piercing to heal?
Everyone is different, so dont be alarmed if the process takes longer for you than anticipated.
It is important to remember that piercings go through phases while healing, says Ellis.
Stacked navel piercing with two gold hoops
Initially, you may have somerednessand tenderness; a bit of bleeding and bruising can be normal as well.
Throughout the healing process, your body may produce some fluids and crusties.
Months passed as I debated whether to leave my navel bare or find a new piece of jewelry.
Stacked navel piercing with three gold hoops and dangling gold jewelry
The hole marking my navel piercing remained, and so did my urge to replace it.
I wasnt willing to give up the piercing that meant so much to me in my formative years.
Trends change, but damn it, my belly button ring is forever.
Navel piercing with pink gems
Read more about the latest trends:
Now, watch Rachel Zegler’s 10-minute beauty routine.
Navel piercing with blue gems
