Whether your piercing studs are located in your ears or in another area of your body, they will require replacement with regular studs or rings after healing is complete. Removing and replacing your piercing studs is not just a matter of appearance; piercing studs are more likely to become snagged on clothing and linens because they are typically longer than regular studs to account for swelling during the recovery period. Knowing how to remove them properly will prevent pain and irritation and reduce your risk of tissue damage and infection.
Step 1
Wash your hands, the piercing site and the stud with antibacterial soap and warm water. If there is any crust on the studs or on the piercing site, wet a cotton ball with saline and hold it against the crusted area for five to 10 minutes. The saline should soften the crust, enabling you to wipe it away.
Step 2
Rotate the studs in your holes to make certain they are not attached to your skin. If the stud does not move freely, the Association of Professional Piercers warns against forcing it.
Step 3
Grip the front and back of your piercing studs firmly. Remove ball studs by unscrewing the ball from the front of your piercing stud, and then gently and slowly pulling the stud through your hole.
Step 4
Remove classic studs by squeezing the winglike clasp on the back of your stud, and then turn the back until it releases from the stud.
Step 5
Stop immediately if you experience pain or bleeding, either of which may indicate an infection or incomplete healing. Place your piercing studs into a bag or container to prevent losing them.
Step 6
Wipe any discharge from the piercing site, and then immediately put in a new piece of jewelry. Even healed holes can close within minutes, according to the Association of Professional Piercers.
Tips and Warnings
- Wait until your piercing has healed and all swelling is gone before taking the stud out. Removing your piercing studs before your skin heals can cause pain, increase the risk of infection and make reinsertion difficult.
Things You'll Need
- Antibacterial soap
- Cotton balls
- Saline solution
