Does nose piercing hurt ? The answer is YES Clean the Piercing • Clean daily: Use a saline solution (saltwater) or a piercing-specific cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as they can dry out the piercing and delay healing. • How to clean: Moisten a cotton ball or gauze with saline and gently clean the area around the piercing, being careful not to move the jewelry too much.