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We’re calling it, the curated ear movement is one of the biggest piercing trends. EVER. An art form that consists of multiple, all-over ear piercings in different formations, it allows you to create and curate a look that’s unique to you and your style.

Getting your ears pierced is exciting and once you’ve done it, the journey with your new earrings is only just beginning. Your new piercings are fragile and it’s important to remember that aftercare is KEY.

The experts at H. Samuel share their top tips on how to care your freshly pierced ears.

The first few days and up to six weeks after you’ve had your ears pierced are when the healing process takes place. During this time, it’s important to keep your piercings clean and healthy.

Top tips to do that include:

  • Clean your hands
  • Keep the piercing clean
  • Rotate your earrings
  • Go easy on cosmetics
  • Avoid bumps and knocks
  • Avoid swimming
  • Keep your earrings in
  • Look out for infection

Keep Your Hands Clean

Your hands are dirty (even if the dirt is not visible). Neglect to wash them before touching your newly pierced ears and you risk introducing bacteria to the site of the piercing.

Before touching your piercing make sure you wash your hands thoroughly. Soap and water will do the job then use a clean towel to dry them properly.

Keep the Piercing Clean

To keep it clean, the experts at H. Samuel recommend the saline ear care solution that you get at its Perfect Piercing studio at the time of your piercing appointment. Dip a cotton swab or pad and lightly clean the area around the front and back of the piercing.

Cleaning the actual piercing should be done at least three times a day. Top tip: Fit it into your daily routine, like after you’ve cleaned your teeth or after each meal.

Rotate Your Earrings

Newly pierced ears heal better if you rotate the earrings on a regular basis. A good time to do this is when you’re cleaning your piercing with the saline solution, as your skin is moistened and supple. Never rotate or touch your piercings with hands that haven’t been washed thoroughly.

Avoid The Pool with Newly Pierced Ears

Not only can bodies of water be carriers of bacteria, but chlorine is an irritant that you won’t want anywhere near your newly pierced ears. With that in mind, the experts recommend waiting until your piercings have fully healed (which is around six to eight weeks) before taking the plunge in a swimming pool, the sea or a hot tub.

Look Out for Infection

What you certainly don’t want is an infection. Sometimes, despite all best intentions, you may have a reaction to your piercing. Keep a close eye on it for a few weeks, so you can nip any issues in the bud as soon as possible.

If you notice any redness, burning sensation, pain, tender or swollen skin, discharge with an unpleasant odour, or ongoing itching around the piercing, seek medical advice from your GP straight away.

What Earrings Should You Wear After Your Piercing?

Your ears will be pierced with special piercing earrings, which should be kept in for a minimum of six weeks (or in the case of a cartilage piercing up to 12 weeks). Whilst it may be tempting to change them to the big hoops or sparkly chandeliers you’ve been desperate to wear, it’s not advisable.

In fact, the experts at H. Samuel recommend that after the initial six weeks are up you should swap to some light stud earrings for around six to twelve months. Keep those statement drop earrings out for a little bit longer if you can.