Ear piercing is a very common type of body adornment and many people have it done at a very young age -- some parents even have their infants' ears pierced. Done on men and women, old and young, ear piercing is often used as a means to express oneself through the styles and designs of earrings. Although ear piercings are not as risky as piercings in other parts of the body, there is still a risk of infection and complications if the piercings are not properly cared for, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 1
Wash your hands with soap and warm water before touching newly pierced ears or surrounding areas in order to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Step 2
Apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab and clean the pierced area of the lobe with the swab. This helps remove crust from the area and the earring. While swabbing, clean the lobe around the piercing as well. Some piercing centers give you a cleaning solution when you get your piercings done. If you have that solution, use it instead of rubbing alcohol.
Step 3
Apply antibiotic ointment to a cotton swab and place it near the piercing hole.
Step 4
Turn the earring several rotations to the right, then to the left.
Step 5
Repeat steps 1 through 4 at least twice a day.
Step 6
Change your pillowcases at least every three days while your piercing is healing.
Step 7
Wipe the ear piece of your home phone or cell phone with a disinfectant, as recommended by the University of Pittsburgh Student Health Service.
Tips and Warnings
- Ear piercings should be worn for four to six months before changing or removing.
- If redness, swelling or infection develop, see your physician. Do not remove the earrings first. Avoid letting hairspray, perfume and shampoos get near the newly-pierced site.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Water
- Cotton swabs
- Rubbing alcohol
- Antibiotic ointment
- Disinfectant
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