Can My Ear Piercings Close if I Take Earrings Out for 6 Weeks?

Ear piercings, after being worn for 6 weeks, are generally still in the healing stage. This period increases the risk of the piercing holes closing if earrings are removed for extended periods, such as during school hours. Understanding how to minimize this risk can help preserve the aesthetics of your piercings.

Minimizing the Risk of Holes Closing

If you need to take out your earrings for school, consider the following tips to minimize the risk of your piercing holes closing:

Keep Them in as Long as Possible

If you can, wear your earrings as long as possible during the day, removing them only for short periods. This helps to keep the holes open and promotes healing.

Use Retainers

You can use hypoallergenic retainers or clear plastic earrings to keep the holes open while you're not wearing your regular jewelry. These options are less noticeable and can be more comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Reinsert Quickly

If you must take out your earrings, try to reinsert them as soon as possible to help prevent the holes from closing. The sooner you put them back, the better the chances of keeping the holes open.

Observe for Signs of Healing

During the school day, be vigilant about any signs of irritation or infection. If you notice any discomfort or changes in the appearance of your piercing, consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider.

Personal Experiences and Tips

While the healing process can vary from person to person, here are a few personal experiences that might give you an idea of what to expect:

Experience 1

When my first piercing was a few weeks old, the earrings fell out overnight while I was sleeping. However, the holes were still there when I woke up, demonstrating that the piercing may remain open for a short period even without earrings.

Experience 2

My best friend had a lobe piercing that was over a month old. When she was playing a sport, the earrings fell out, and when she found out an hour later, the holes were almost completely closed. However, she managed to open them again with some effort. This situation illustrates the importance of reinserting earrings as soon as possible.

You may also consider covering your piercings with your hair or wearing invisible studs to avoid the hassle of reinserting them repeatedly. Some shops, like Etsy, offer a range of discreet stud earrings that might be suitable for you.

Experience 3

Your school might have a policy against visible piercings. In such cases, it's better to cover your piercings to comply with school rules. Wearing a hair bun or a style that keeps your earrings out of sight can be a good compromise.

While some piercings might stay open for a few hours without earrings, especially in the first few months, it's generally safer to keep the earrings in place. Each person's healing process can vary, so it's best to play it safe and keep the jewelry in during school hours.

Conclusion

Piercings need to heal for at least a year before you can safely remove the jewelry. If you have longer-term plans to remove your earrings, it's crucial to understand the potential risks of the holes closing. By following the tips provided and being mindful of your piercings' health, you can minimize the chances of encountering unsightly closed piercings.

Disclaimer

While these tips can help, individual experiences may vary. Always consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider if you have concerns about your piercings.