Ear piercings are very common, but problems can arise if proper care is not taken with them. The American Academy of Dermatology has guidance on how to care for pierced ears, with instructions including:
Always wash your hands before touching newly pierced ears.
Leave the earrings in your ears for six weeks or more, even at night. Removing the starter earrings too early may cause the piercings to close.
Regularly wash your ears with soap and water. Carefully do this at least once a day to avoid infection.
Twist the earrings a few times daily. This will help keep the pierced holes open.
Put rubbing alcohol on your ears. Using a cotton ball or pad dipped in rubbing alcohol, gently clean the skin around the piercings twice a day to keep away germs and prevent scabbing. You may also apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly around the opening.
It is also very important to go to a reputable piercer.
For those in the greater Phoenix area, we suggest HTC Studios. Locations can be found here, or you can call them at 602-942-8810.
If piercings become sore, red, puffy, and/or the holes ooze yellowish liquid, they may be infected. If this happens, please call us and make an appointment.