Getting an ear pierced is a classic style statement or sometimes even a spontaneous decision made. It is equally exciting, whether it's your first piercing or fourth. But one thing that never changes after getting a piercing done is the right aftercare.
If you’ve recently had your ears pierced or are planning to get one done, it’s important to understand the difference aftercare can bring. Piercing brands sell specific ear piercing lotion or ear piercing gel, ensuring your skin heals safely and beautifully.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the importance and requirements of ear piercing aftercare, as well as how to select the best lotions and gels for yourself.
Why Is Ear Piercing Aftercare Important?
We get the excitement you have when you’ve finally gotten your ears pierced and you want to flaunt your new bling. But don’t skip aftercare, as that can quickly turn excitement into irritation, literally. The old-time remedies that include traditional hot compresses or DIY solutions can be helpful to provide some relief, but specific ear piercing gel are designed to do more than that.
The skin around a fresh ear piercing is fragile and can catch an infection sooner than you think. This is important in cases when the piercing is done using a professional ear piercing instrument or manually, because in either case, we are still piercing the skin.
The right ear piercing gel or aftercare product helps to:
- Soothe irritation
- Reducing the risk of infection
- Promote faster healing
- Prevent bumps
Choosing the Right Ear Piercing Lotion or Gel
We’ve all seen a variety of ear piercing studs available in the market, but what most people don’t know is that the market also has different ear piercing gels and lotions available to treat infected ear piercing. So, what should you look for in an ear piercing lotion or gel?
- Antibacterial ingredients that fight off germs
- Soothing agents like aloe vera or chamomile that calm the skin
- No harsh chemicals or alcohol, which can irritate the area
Types of ear piercing gels/lotions you can use:
- Piercing Aftercare & Cleanser: This is used to protect newly pierced ears from infection. The Studex Advanced 2-in-1 Piercing Aftercare & Cleanser works as an excellent piercing healing product that maintains skin hygiene and keeps you safe from unwanted allergies and infections.
- Ear Piercing Gel: An ear piercing aftercare gel is lightweight with a quick, fast-absorbing formula for instant pain relief. The Studex Ear Piercing After Care Gel works best for newly pierced ears, providing instant pain relief with its smooth texture. It doesn’t contain alcohol or ingredients like peroxide, making it perfect for even those with a sensitive skin type. Use this in case you need a piercing gel that soothes inflammation, redness, itching, or if you have an oily skin type, for which ear piercing lotions can feel too heavy.
- Ear Piercing Lotion: You might feel a bit sore a day or two after the piercing is done, and a gentle lotion can help reduce the discomfort. An ear piercing lotion has a thick consistency, containing antiseptics and moisturising ingredients that will soothe the infected area. It creates a protective layer on the skin that smoothens the healing process. Use this in cases when the skin feels dry, itchy, or turns red, which usually happens in the early stages of healing.
Smart Aftercare Tips to Keep Your Ear Piercing Infection-Free
Even if you do everything right, there is a chance that your new piercing can cause an infection. It’s important to act on time if you notice signs. Here are some steps that mention how the right aftercare can help defend the ear piercing much more easily:
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Start with a trusted cleanser: Clean the area gently with an aftercare cleanser that is dermatologist-tested. For immediate aftercare, begin the aftercare treatment from day one with a cleanser like the STUDEX Advanced Piercing Aftercare & Cleanser that is absolutely safe for all skin types.
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Soothe the skin with a piercing gel: Help your skin recover with an ear piercing gel or lotion to treat infected ear piercing in just a few weeks.
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Don’t remove your piercing jewellery early: Continue to wear the piercing jewellery for 2-4 months. Changing it before the suggested time frame can trap infection.
- Know what’s normal and what’s not: Symptoms like mild redness or swelling are part of the healing process. But if you experience serious symptoms like fever, redness, or increasing pain, seek medical advice.
It All Starts with the Right Ear Piercing Instrument
The way a piercing is done has a huge effect on how quickly it can heal. The piercing tool that you use for the procedure truly matters. Use a proper ear piercing instrument that is sterile and ensures a cleaner, safer process. A professional ear piercing tool can help avoid common mistakes and reduce the chances of infections or allergies.
Why Use a Professional Ear Piercing Tool?
- Minimizes trauma to the skin
- Ensures even, accurate placement
- Designed for sterile, single-use application
Do’s and Don’ts of Ear Piercing Aftercare
Treating an ear piercing right after getting it pierced is important to avoid visible bumps, pus, swelling, or pain. The earlier you respond, the better your chances are of avoiding complications or prolonged healing. Getting serious about your aftercare is not optional; it’s necessary. With the right aftercare routine, you can treat an ear piercing easily. Here is a set of do’s and don’ts that should be kept in mind:
Do’s:
- Clean the area twice daily with a safe aftercare cleanser like STUDEX Advanced Piercing Aftercare & Cleanser. This step helps rinse away bacteria without irritating the skin. Avoid rigorous rubbing and be gentle, as that can cause redness and swelling.
- Apply a good amount of ear piercing gel or lotion after cleaning. Look for options that are antibacterial and work well with healing the infected area. Make sure to slightly air-dry the piercing before application, and use a fresh cotton swab for each use to prevent cross-contamination.
- Wash your hands every time before touching your piercing or the area around it. Remember, every time you touch your piercing with unwashed hands, the risk of introducing new bacteria to the wound can increase.
- Rotate the stud slightly, only if recommended by your piercer. Some piercers advise gently rotating the earring clockwise during aftercare to prevent it from sticking to the skin. Never force if there’s resistance or pain.
Don’ts:
- Don’t remove the studs during the piercing healing time, as this can cause infection and higher chances of redness or allergy.
- Don’t use ear piercing gel or lotions that have alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
These can be harsh for your skin, causing excessive dryness, cracking, and irritation. Stick to gentle cleansers specifically made for piercing aftercare that control infection.
- Don’t poke or squeeze any bumps around the piercing, as this can lead to more severe infections or even permanent scarring. Let bumps heal naturally. If the bump grows, consult a piercer or healthcare provider.
- Don’t push the back post/butterfly/clasp tight against the earlobe, as that can block airflow and trap moisture around the piercing and increase the chances of infection or redness.
- Don’t try any home remedies, as these common “quick fixes” can be reactive and cause reactions for sensitive skin and delay recovery.
Conclusion
An ear piercing might look like a tiny dot on your body, but it also demands utmost care. Following the right aftercare steps and using appropriate ear piercing gel or lotion can ensure your ear piercing will heal smoothly with minimal pain. Moreover, using the correct ear piercing instrument can also make a huge difference. So if you’re dealing with redness, allergy, irritation, or bumps around your pierced ear, or just want to prevent problems even before they start, investing in proper ear piercing aftercare is really important.
