How To Care For Your Piercing

A new ear piercing is the same as a small wound. As with all wounds, there is always a risk of infection during the healing period. Therefore, it is important to take care of the new piercing correctly.

With any piercing, a small crust can form similar to a scab. The crust can become moist and bacteria will thrive there. It is important to wash away this crust. The piercing aftercare swabs contain sodium chloride and enable the mechanical cleansing between the earring and ear, where bacteria and dirt typically accumulate. Use these twice daily until finished, then continue cleansing twice daily with antimicrobial soap and water. Except for cleaning, contact/touching of the piercing should be avoided on new piercings. For the first six weeks, focus on hygiene and aftercare.

If the earring of a new piercing happens to fall out, clean the ear and earring and replace it as soon as possible. If there is any difficulty with re-insertion, you can wet the earring with water to help it ease back into place.

You can change out earrings after six full weeks. It is recommended to continue wearing medical grade plastic or medical grade titanium earrings, though 14K gold and stainless steel are good alternatives. Allergic contact dermatitis, particularly to nickel, is the most common skin complication of piercings. Regardless of what type of earring you choose, make sure the backing isn't on too tight as the piercing still needs to "breathe" in order to continue healing.

Try to avoid swimming for several weeks, particularly in the lake or ocean. Baths and showers are fine. Be sure ears are clean and dry following any contact with water.

Keep earrings in full-time for one year.