Painless Ear Piercing

Choose the right metals

For the piercing earrings, pick ones made of hypoallergenic materials such as sterling silver or 14- or 18- or 24-karat gold. These types of metals are not likely to cause an allergic reaction. Note that nickel frequently causes allergic reactions so steer clear of nickel during the piercing process (ask the piercer if you are unsure).

Stay on top of your new piercings

Ask the piercer what to expect after the piercings and how to care for the area. The skin around the piercings might be swollen, sensitive, or red immediately afterward. To facilitate proper healing and avoid infection, follow these recommendations:

Avoid touching the new piercings except when cleaning them.

Always wash your hands with soap and warm water before touching your ears or earrings.

Clean the entire area surrounding the piercings (front and back) with alcohol on a cotton swab two to three times a day. During each of these cleanings, make sure the earring backing is secure and then gently rotate the earrings.

Be careful not to pull or push on your piercings when brushing your hair, talking on the phone, or wearing headphones. This will prevent a tear.

If you can, avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, lakes, and oceans while your piercings are healing because this could increase the risk of infection.

Keep your earrings in for at least six weeks