Expert: XR - 12/2/2011

Question
I think this counts as a "gear" issue.  My husband and I have been slowly entering the world of BDSM and having a blast.  Last night I asked him to spank me with a wire hanger.  I'd zinged myself a few times to try it out and liked it; I thought it would be fun to add to our play.  

Well he spanked and I had fun.  A few times it hurt like hell, but that's kinda the point, right?  So we play, we cum, we kiss, we sleep.  This morning I notice a few red welts but nothing too bad.  However all day long I can feel it, more and more as the day goes.  Early in the day it was a sweet little reminder of a fun evening, but hours later it's just OUCH!  

So, here's the question.  What sort of aftercare might lessen the long term effects of spankings like this?   Because I don't want to stop enjoying the play, but I can't spend all day achy and sore.  And I guess along those lines, what spanking gear is best for novices who want to learn more but don't want to go hardcore (at least not yet)?

Thanks

Answer
You're basically treating bruising and lacerations here, and you shouldn't treat them any differently. It might help to ice after spanking. I'm not about to go endorse any bruise relief cream, but essentially you're treating the same thing.
 As for your tool of choice. You're basically having your ass whipped with a thin metal rod. It might be cutting a little deeper than you'd like. I'd suggest something like a soft flogger if you're looking for something dramatic, but less damaging. You know what you might try, a paint stirrer. It's a thin strip of light-weight wood. It's not going to do deep damage, or lacerate you too bad. As BDSM toys go, it's practically free.
 Good luck.