Getting an ear piercing is always so exciting and they are a great way to express your own unique style, but proper aftercare is really important to ensure they heal smoothly. Whether you’ve just had a lobe piercing or a cartilage piercing, understanding the healing process and best aftercare practices is key.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- How long ear piercings take to heal
- Signs that your piercing has fully healed
- When you can change your ear piercing jewellery
- Essential do’s and don’ts after getting pierced
How Long Do Ear Piercings Take to Heal?
Healing times vary depending on the location of your piercing and how well you care for it. Here’s a general guide:
- Lobe Piercing: 6 to 8 weeks
- Helix (Cartilage) Piercing: 6 to 12 months
- Tragus, Daith & Other Cartilage Piercings: 6 to 12 months
Cartilage piercings take significantly longer to heal than lobe piercings due to reduced blood flow in the cartilage. It’s super important to follow the correct aftercare routine to avoid complications.
How Do I Know If My Ear Piercing Is Healed?
A fully healed piercing should:
- No longer feel tender or sore
- Have no swelling, redness, or discharge
- Move freely without discomfort
If you’re unsure, it’s best to continue your aftercare routine and wait a little longer before changing your jewellery.
How Long Until You Can Change Your Ear Piercing Jewellery?
Changing your ear piercing jewellery too soon can cause irritation or prolong healing. Follow these timeframes:
- Lobe Piercing: After 6 to 8 weeks
- Cartilage Piercing: After at least 6 months, but ideally 12 months
If your piercing is still sensitive, wait longer before switching jewellery. When you do change it, choose high-quality, hypoallergenic materials like 9k and 14k solid gold to minimise irritation. Explore our cartilage piercing jewellery collection for stunning, high-quality options.
Do’s and Don’ts After an Ear Piercing
Do’s:
🗸 Clean your piercing twice daily with a gentle, isotonic saline solution like NeilMed Piercing Aftercare. This soothing mist supports healing without causing irritation. Simply spray your piercing twice a day for best results.
🗸 Avoid touching or twisting your jewellery unnecessarily.
🗸 Keep your pillowcases clean and avoid sleeping on the side of a fresh piercing.
🗸 Stick to high-quality piercing jewellery to reduce the risk of reactions.
Don’ts:
✗ Don’t remove or change your jewellery too soon—it can cause irritation or lead to closure.
✗ Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or open water while your piercing is healing.
✗ Don’t use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to clean your piercing, as these can dry out and damage the skin.
✗ Avoid excessive earphone or helmet use that puts pressure on the piercing.
Shop High-Quality Ear Piercing Jewellery
We believe in high-quality, beautifully designed jewellery that stands the test of time. If you’re looking for stylish, safe, and comfortable options, discover our range of cartilage piercing jewellery.
