BEST METALS FOR SENSITIVE EARS – ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT EAR PIERCING

There are a plethora of options for ear piercings, so it’s critical to do your homework before getting one so you know precisely what you want, where you want it, how much it will cost, and most importantly, how much it will hurt.

However, we’ve got all the information you need to be permanently pierced before you go to the salon—or, as they’re now called, “earring bar.” To begin with, these are the best metals for sensitive ears and all you gotta know about ear piercings.

BEST METAL FOR SENSITIVE EARS

The distinction between pure metal and metal alloy lies in the fact that the latter is a blend of various metals. It’s important to keep an eye out for nickel and cobalt. They are often utilized because they lighten the tone and strengthen weaker metals. Creating elaborate patterns is hampered by the natural softness of superior metals like gold and silver. Regretfully, the majority of products available in the market are made of metal alloys, which can range in price from higher to cheaper. We think it’s not worth it, particularly if there are other solutions available.

GOLD

Gold is, of course, the most expensive of them all. It’s crucial to remember that the quality of Gold varies and that this affects how severe your allergic reactions are. Always be careful to look up the karat weight to determine the exact amount of gold present in a certain setting. The unit of measurement for gold purity is karat. Choose 14k Gold or above, since it is purer in form and less likely to trigger an allergic reaction, to prevent any potential allergies for extremely sensitive skin. 

ARUTE INFINITY HOOP EARRING

Aurate specializes in affordable, long-lasting gold jewelry that is obtained ethically; according to the business, over 99% of the jewelry in its line is recycled gold. You may choose from a variety of designs in 14k or 18k pure gold, or 14k gold vermeil, which is a sterling silver base plated in thick 14k gold. Just decide what suits your budget and ears the best. 

QUINCE 14K GOLD BALL STUDS

Though, likely, that you’ll only wear them on your ears, expect these dazzling studs to remain a staple in your jewelry box. Made by hand from 14-karat solid gold, they are unaffected by oxidation or color change. Furthermore, the spheres are the perfect size for daily wear—not too little or garish.

SILVER

Sterling silver is another pricey material that, in high purity, won’t trigger an allergic reaction. They also need some kind of metal alloy, such as copper and nickel, because they are rather soft in their native state. This makes it difficult to distinguish between them and select the ideal pair of silver earrings while attempting to manage your allergy. 

MEJURI DOME HUGGIES

One of our favorite inexpensive jewelry brands is Mejuri for striking pieces that you can wear every day, like this plump shape that has Bottega vibes. This stackable pair dipped in 18-karat gold vermeil, is resistant to oxidation and discoloration.

FLAIRE & CO. ALL SMILES HUGGIES

These cheerful face earrings are a quick mood booster and give your everyday ear accessory a quirky, upbeat flair. Not only does the design make us happy, though; Flaire & Co. sells hypoallergenic jewelry that, with the right maintenance, won’t turn your skin green for less than $15.

TITANIUM

Not only is it a great option due to its hypoallergenic qualities, but it is also a sturdy and lightweight material. Titanium jewelry is the least reactive jewelry according to users; it is robust, pleasant, and exquisitely light on the ear. It is advised to choose earrings that are medical quality, implant grade, and commercially pure. 

MAISON MIRU COSMIC CARTILAGE HOOP

It might be difficult to choose the correct earrings for your cartilage, even though they are among the most common piercings outside of your lobe. You won’t be switching out this earring very frequently because of its placement, especially if it’s brand-new, so we think it’s especially crucial to pick one with safe materials and a style that works for many occasions—two things Maison Miru successfully satisfies. 

TINI LUX TWILIGHT STUD

These shimmering studs are suitable for every occasion, whether you’ve assigned yourself the architect of creating an “earscape” or simply need an unusual everyday earring that doesn’t draw attention to itself. The emerald-cut earrings, with their somber hue and four-post rectangular silver or gold backing, hint at a classic look without really embracing it.

NIOBIUM

Niobium is a naturally occurring inert metal that doesn’t react with human tissue. Although niobium is naturally blue-green, it may be anodized to turn it gold. An electrical current is used in conjunction with a certain soap and water solution to anodize niobium jewelry. Anodized Niobium is 100% pure Niobium, which implies that it is still 100% non-allergenic and non-reactive, unlike ordinary fashion jewelry, which has plating, coatings, or dyes. Nickel is never present in it since it is a pure metal rather than an alloy.

GENUINE AMAZONITE NIOBIUM FRENCH HOOK EARRING

Remain composed, joyful, and prepared to have faith in yourself. Selecting earrings with a semiprecious Amazonite stone and a hypoallergenic metal like niobium can help you find inner calm and stimulate your creativity.

FOR REBEL SKIN DAINTY GOLD BRANCH EARRING

Tiny earrings made of gold branches. Gorgeous dangling earrings with a natural theme. Pure ear wires made of niobium. Niobium has no tarnish and is completely hypoallergenic. For those who are allergic to metals, this metal is safe to use. Niobium, like titanium, is very biocompatible.

 

STAINLESS STEEL

It might be challenging to discern between reactive and high-quality metal alloys. But, in terms of cost and piercings, it’s a great substitute for both gold and silver. A mixture of metals that are resistant to corrosion is referred to as surgical stainless steel or SSS for short. If you’re looking for jewelry that’s elegant, affordable, and non-reactive, stainless steel earrings are a great choice. 

OANVIDER SURGICAL STAINLESS STEEL SMALL HOOP EARRING

Unable to choose a hoop size? Try these chic, hypoallergenic earrings from Oanvider to change things up. Three tiny surgical stainless steel hoops that resemble regular silver earrings are included in Amazon’s Choice selection. You may wear them all day without experiencing any irritation by switching up the size to meet different ensembles and events.

UHIBROS HYPOALLERGENIC ROUND BALL EARRING

Though sparkling studs and bejeweled hoops are irresistible, sometimes a simple, fuss-free earring may do the trick. Since every set of these round ball earrings comes in diameters ranging from four to eight millimeters, the dealer will choose which piercing each should be placed in. (To increase your options, you may choose from five different hues.) However, because they’re so inexpensive, you don’t have to be picky; if you want to mix and match your metals, you may possess many sets without going over budget. 

HOW TO CLEAN EAR PIERCINGS

  • When you practice other routine hygiene practices, clean your piercing. To gently remind yourself to clean it every day, do it after you take a shower or brush your teeth.
  • Wash your hands. To prevent the spread of bacteria, wash your piercing with warm water and a mild soap before touching it.
  • Use a fresh cotton pad or swab soaked in a salt solution to clean. To prepare this solution, whisk one teaspoon of salt into one cup of heated water. To get rid of any germs, use this many times a day around the piercing region.
  • Steer clear of fragrant soaps. Wash the area surrounding the piercing with water and a mild antiseptic soap.
  • Every time you remove a piercing, clean the region that was pierced. This also applies to the process of reinstalling it. When jewelry is left out in the open or rests on a surface like a counter or table, bacteria may grow on it very fast.
  • Keep your piercing clean outside of the restroom. That particularly applies to public ones. High bacterial concentrations are typically seen in even the cleanest residential bathrooms.
  • Avoid using any body or hair products around the piercing. Use caution while using shampoo, soap, gel, pomade, hairspray, or any other substance that may come into contact with the piercing and cause tissue irritation.
  • Keep an eye out for discharge that seems strange or discolored. If you observe any odd discharge, get in touch with your piercer or doctor immediately, since this might indicate an infection.

FAQ

WHAT METAL IS 100% HYPOALLERGENIC?

A maximum of 24 karats is used to assess the purity of gold, hence 24K gold is considered pure gold. Because 24K gold is made entirely of pure gold, it is nickel-free and hypoallergenic.

HOW DO I STOP MY EARRINGS FROM IRRITATING MY EARS?

Just treat the earrings in question with a couple of applications of vaseline or petroleum jelly before wearing them. Either chemical is a proactive way to cope with a response in addition to being an effective barrier.

WHAT METAL SHOULD BE AVOIDED IN JEWELRY?

Among the metals that may cause allergic reactions or discomfort are: One of the most frequent triggers for metal allergies is nickel. It can result in contact dermatitis and is frequently found in inexpensive jewelry. Pure copper has the potential to irritate the skin when it reacts with it.

DO EAR PIERCING HURT?

Lobe piercings should just cause a pinch as the needle goes through your ear; however, cartilage piercings are known to cause a little harsher sensation, with a sudden shock followed by a duller, throbbing ache. but brief and uneventful.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Make sure to learn how to take care of your piercing before scheduling an appointment for a new accessory. The key to keeping your piercing looking nice rather than diseased is proper upkeep. Avoid twisting, turning, rotating, or sleeping on any of your piercings as this might prolong the healing process and raise your risk of discomfort or infection. Aim to avoid sleeping on them and give them a saline wash once or twice a day. In general, you should avoid being around water for six to eight weeks following your piercing (baths, pools, hot tubs, etc.). 

HOW TO TREAT AN INFECTED PIERCING

Piercing, a popular form of body modification, adds a unique touch to personal style. While the piercing process is typically a routine beauty treatment, the subsequent healing period is crucial. Ear piercings, especially those located below the earlobe, often experience a faster healing process, involving the intricate cartilage structure. Despite the commonality of piercings, infections can occasionally occur, prompting questions about their causes, identification of symptoms, and proper treatment methods. In this comprehensive exploration of ear piercing infections, we will address the causative factors, identify potential warning signs, and offer detailed guidance on effective treatment methods.

WHAT IS AN INFECTED EAR PIERCING?

An ear piercing involves creating an opening in either your earlobe or the cartilage in your middle or upper ear. Infections related to ear piercings may manifest as redness, swelling, soreness, warmth, itchiness, or tenderness. Occasionally, piercings may discharge blood, or exhibit white, yellow, or green pus.

Since a fresh piercing is essentially an open wound, the complete healing process typically takes several weeks. Throughout this period, any introduction of bacteria into the wound can potentially result in an infection.

TYPES OF EAR PIERCING INFECTIONS

There are primarily two types of ear piercings: those through the earlobes and those through the cartilage of the ear.

Earlobes, being fleshy and fatty, boast robust blood circulation, leading to quick healing and minimizing the likelihood of an infected earlobe piercing.

Conversely, the upper ear consists of cartilage, a dense and rigid tissue with comparatively lower blood flow. Piercings in this region are more susceptible to infections, and infections in the upper ear can occasionally pose more serious concerns.

HOW COMMON ARE EAR INFECTIONS FROM PIERCINGS?

Every year, millions of individuals opt to have their ears pierced, with the majority experiencing no significant complications. Yet, it’s not uncommon for new piercings to exhibit mild irritation and infections. Fortunately, in the majority of cases, these infections are not serious and tend to resolve swiftly.

According to a study, up to 35% of individuals with pierced ears encountered one or more of the following complications:

Minor infection: 77%

Allergic reaction: 43%

Formation of scar tissue (keloid): 2.5%

Traumatic tearing: 2.5%

HOW TO HEAL AN INFECTED PIERCING

CLEAN THE INFECTED SKIN AREA

The first step involves identifying the infection’s signs, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. If you suspect an infection, it is crucial to refrain from removing the jewelry, as doing so may trap the infection and hinder drainage. Instead, clean the area with a saline solution or mild, non-alcoholic antiseptic solution recommended by a professional piercer.

CLEAN YOUR PILLER HOLE

Thoroughly cleaning an infected ear piercing with sterile saline is a meticulous process that promotes optimal healing and helps prevent further complications. Sterile saline solution is a mild and gentle antiseptic that can effectively cleanse the affected area without causing irritation.

To initiate the cleaning procedure, start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water to ensure a hygienic environment. Next, prepare a saline solution by either purchasing pre-packaged sterile saline solution from a pharmacy or mixing your own by dissolving a teaspoon of non-iodized salt in a cup of warm, distilled water. Ensure the mixture is well-dissolved and free of any impurities.

Dip a sterile cotton ball or swab into the saline solution, allowing it to become saturated. Gently clean around the infected ear piercing, taking care not to rotate or excessively move the earring, as this could exacerbate the irritation. Gently dab the saline-soaked cotton ball on the front and back of the piercing site, removing any crusted discharge or debris.

If your piercing involves a stud or earring with a back, make sure to clean both the front and back of the jewelry thoroughly. Additionally, be cautious not to introduce any additional contaminants during the cleaning process.

SOAK IN WARM SALT WATER

Incorporating warm salt water into your care routine can provide a therapeutic and nurturing environment for an infected piercing. This practice involves the careful preparation of a warm saline solution, which can contribute significantly to the soothing and healing process.

To begin, ensure that you have impeccably clean hands before handling the infected piercing. Create the saline solution by dissolving a quarter to a half teaspoon of sea salt into a cup of comfortably warm, distilled water. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the salt is completely dissolved, preventing any abrasive particles from causing irritation during the soak.

Once the solution is properly mixed, immerse the affected piercing in the warm saline bath for approximately 5-10 minutes. This gentle soaking serves a dual purpose: it helps alleviate inflammation and discomfort while also stimulating blood circulation around the piercing site. Improved blood flow is essential for delivering nutrients and immune cells to the area, promoting the body’s natural healing processes.

During the soak, take care to keep the infected piercing submerged and allow the warm saline solution to penetrate the affected area. You may use a clean cup or soak the pierced area directly in the solution, depending on the location of the piercing. While soaking, you can gently move the jewelry back and forth to ensure the solution reaches all parts of the pierced area.

USING ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENT 

Utilizing antibiotics for infected piercing involves a meticulous process to care for and treat the affected area. Specifically designed for various skin conditions, including wounds, cuts, or infections, this approach utilizes a topical ointment containing antibiotics. These antibiotics play a crucial role in preventing bacterial growth, facilitating healing, and minimizing the risk of complications.

To initiate this procedure, begin by ensuring that your hands are thoroughly clean to prevent introducing additional contaminants to the affected area. Carefully clean the infected area with a mild soap and water, patting it dry gently with a clean, lint-free cloth.

Once the area is dry, take a small amount of the prescribed or over-the-counter antibiotic ointment on a clean cotton swab or sterile applicator. Ensure that you follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or included with the ointment.

If the affected area is covered by a bandage or dressing, reapply a fresh dressing after applying the antibiotic ointment to maintain a sterile environment. Follow the recommended frequency and duration of application, as directed by your healthcare provider or as specified on the product packaging.

ORAL ANTIBIOTICS

In cases where an infected piercing has progressed to a more severe stage, oral antibiotics may be prescribed as a crucial component of the treatment plan. Oral antibiotics work systemically, entering the bloodstream and targeting the infection from within the body. This method is particularly effective when the infection has spread beyond the localized area of the piercing or when topical treatments prove insufficient.

Before prescribing antibiotics, a healthcare provider will typically assess the severity of the infection and may take a sample for culture and sensitivity testing. This allows them to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine the most appropriate antibiotic for effective treatment.

It’s essential for individuals taking oral antibiotics to strictly adhere to the prescribed dosage and duration. Failure to complete the full course of antibiotics can lead to incomplete eradication of the infection, increasing the risk of recurrence and potential antibiotic resistance. Patients should not self-prescribe or share antibiotics, as this can have adverse effects and contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria.

BALANCED DIET

Maintaining a balanced diet plays a crucial role in supporting the overall health of the body, and this extends to the healing process of an infected piercing. A diet rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins, can contribute to a robust immune system and facilitate the body’s natural ability to combat infections. Nutrients like vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants aid in tissue repair and collagen synthesis, essential for the regeneration of damaged skin around the piercing. Additionally, consuming an adequate amount of protein is vital for the production of antibodies and immune cells that help fight infection. Staying well-hydrated is equally important, as proper hydration promotes optimal blood circulation, ensuring that essential nutrients reach the affected area. 

While a balanced diet is not a direct treatment for an infected piercing, it can certainly complement other care measures, fostering a healthy internal environment that supports the body’s ability to heal efficiently. 

HOW TO PREVENT INFECTED PIERCING

To minimize the risk of infection, it is advisable to have your ears pierced by a professional rather than attempting it at home. When choosing a piercer, inquire about their infection prevention protocols and the sterility of their tools. Ensure that the earrings used are extracted from new, sterile packages.

Following the piercing, maintain a hygiene routine by cleaning your ears twice a day, either with the provided rinse or sterile saline solution. It is important not to twist or turn your jewelry, as this can traumatize the skin and increase the likelihood of infection. Cleaning around the piercing without removing the earring is a suitable practice.

Resist the urge to excessively handle or play with the jewelry, as such actions are common culprits for initiating infections. While the process may be slightly uncomfortable, the brief moment of pain during the piercing procedure is a small price to pay for the opportunity to adorn your earlobes and have some fun. In the event of an infection, prompt treatment is essential for expedited healing and a reduced risk of complications.

WHEN YOU SHOULD SEE A DOCTOR

In most cases, a mild infection from an ear piercing can be effectively managed at home. However, remember to seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms arise:

  • The earring becomes immobile.
  • The earring clasp becomes embedded in the skin.
  • The infection shows no improvement with home treatments within a two-day period.
  • A fever develops.
  • The infection, or the associated redness and inflammation, extends beyond the initial piercing site.

FAQ

1. Should I leave my piercing in if it’s infected?

Keep your jewelry in place unless directed by a medical professional to remove it.

2. How quickly can an infected piercing heal?

Mild infections in pierced ears can be addressed at home, and with appropriate care, the majority of them typically resolve within 1 to 2 weeks.

3. Should I put ice on my infected ear piercing?

Yes. Ice is effective in reducing both swelling and pain. Employ an ice pack or place crushed ice in a plastic bag for this purpose.

CONCLUSION

With the right knowledge, care, and a proactive approach, individuals can transform these challenges into opportunities for a healthier and beautifully adorned body. May this guide serve as a valuable resource in fostering a safe, hygienic, and ultimately gratifying piercing experience.