Best Practices for Removing Ear Piercings: A Guide for Safe Jewelry Care

Ear piercings often require special care and attention to ensure they heal properly. While many piercings become more resilient after six weeks, it is still important to avoid removing the jewelry for extended periods. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the best practices for safely removing your ear piercings, especially if the jewelry is removed for more than six hours after an initial period of healing.

Understanding the Healing Process

After an initial period of healing, many ear piercings can remain resilient and less prone to closing. However, it is generally recommended to keep the jewelry in place for at least six weeks. Cartilage piercings typically take even longer, often up to 12 weeks, to fully heal. During this time, the body’s natural healing process causes the hole to close if the jewelry is not maintained.

Minimizing Risks of Removal

While it is recommended to keep the jewelry in place, there may be instances where this is necessary. Here are some steps to minimize the risks associated with removing your ear piercings:

Keep the Jewelry in

If possible, try to leave the jewelry in as much as you can, especially if you're unsure about the healing progress. This not only helps prevent the hole from closing but also keeps the ear canal clean and free of irritation.

Use Retainers

If you need to remove the earrings, consider using a flexible retainer like a plastic or silicone earring. These retainers help keep the hole open and minimize the risk of closure. They are especially useful if the piercing is new or has only recently been removed.

Monitor for Changes

If you do remove the earrings, pay close attention to any signs of irritation or closure. If the hole starts to close, be prepared to put the earrings back in promptly. This can be a particularly sensitive process, especially for cartilage piercings, which can be more prone to closing.

Specific Concerns and Professional Advice

If you have specific concerns or if the piercing is showing signs of infection or irritation, it is a good idea to consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and treatment that may be necessary.

Experience and Personal Advice

Based on personal experience, I would advise keeping the original earrings in for at least a year. This duration allows your ear to fully acclimate to the piercing and ensures that it stays open and ready for wear. Changing earrings too soon can often lead to pain and difficulty in reinserting new jewelry.

For instance, I attempted to change my 15-week-old upper lobe piercings. The process of taking the stud out was easy, but reinserting new earrings became extremely painful. Everyone's experience with piercings is different; some may heal faster, while others may take years. It is generally recommended to wait a minimum of a year before considering the removal of your ear piercings. Your ears need time to get used to the presence of a foreign object, whether a stud or a hoop.

If you are not comfortable with your original ear jewelry, it is best to return to your piercer or seek advice from a professional piercer. They can help you choose more comfortable jewelry that will be easier to maintain and enjoy over the long term. As an example, I changed my diamond starter studs to delicate little gold hoops. I have no plans to change them, as they are incredibly comfortable and stylish.

In conclusion, while the initial period of healing is crucial, it is also important to consider the long-term maintenance of your piercings. Following these guidelines can help ensure that your piercings remain open and that you can enjoy them for years to come.