10 New Ear Piercing Mistakes to Avoid During Healing

Aftercare & care

Getting pierced is the first step. The real journey is the healing that follows, and sometimes the biggest challenges come from small, avoidable habits. Here’s a straightforward list of common pitfalls, so you can support your piercing’s healing with confidence and ease.

10 Mistakes to Avoid

Touching Your Piercing

New jewelry is tempting, but every touch introduces bacteria. Your hands carry germs, even when they look clean.

What to do instead:

If you must adjust it, wash your hands thoroughly first. Afterwards, give the area a gentle spray with your saline solution.
Skipping or Second-Guessing Aftercare

The instructions we provide are your simple roadmap to healing. Consistency matters more than complexity.

What to do instead:

Keep your aftercare guide handy. If any step is unclear, message us. We’re here to provide clarity, not judgement.
Changing Jewelry Too Soon

Switching jewelry before the tissue has stabilized inside can interrupt healing and cause irritation.

A general timeline:
Lobes: Wait at least 6-8 weeks.
Cartilage: Wait 6-12 months.

What to do instead:

Visit us for your complimentary downsize and first jewelry changes. We’ll handle it safely.
Using Harsh Cleaning Products

Alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, and ointments are too aggressive. They strip moisture and can harm delicate new skin cells.

What to do instead:

Your NeilMed Aftercare Spray is perfectly formulated—gentle, sterile, and effective. A simple spray twice a day is all you need.
Sleeping Directly on the Piercing

Constant pressure from side-sleeping can cause irritation bumps and discomfort.

What to do instead:

Use a travel pillow or a piercing pillow designed with a center hole. It makes a significant difference in comfort.
Trying Unverified DIY "Cures"

Internet remedies like tea tree oil or aspirin paste can severely irritate your piercing. They’re not designed for healing tissue.

What to do instead:

Stick to the saline spray routine. If something seems wrong, contact us for proven, gentle solutions.
Missing Your Checkup Appointments

Our free checkups are an opportunity to catch small issues before they become complicated.

What to do instead:

Come in for your downsizing, and any time you feel unsure reach out for a checkup. A quick professional look provides peace of mind.
Over-Cleaning

More is not better. Cleaning more than 2-3 times a day can dry out and irritate the piercing.

What to do instead:

Think “gentle and consistent.” Twice-daily saline sprays are the perfect balance.
Stressing Over Every Small Change

Healing doesn't happen in a straight line. Some days your piercing will look perfect, other days it might be slightly puffy. Constant worry can actually slow down the process.

What to do instead:

Do a calm, quick check during your daily cleaning, then let it be. Trust the process and your body’s ability to heal.
Not Asking for Help When Needed

You are not bothering us. We’ve seen and heard it all. That “silly” question is almost certainly one we answer regularly.

What to do instead:

Reach out. Send a photo via WhatsApp, DM us on Instagram (@labret.co), or walk in. Early guidance is the simplest path back to comfortable healing.

The Simple Truth

Healing a piercing well is less about perfection and more about consistent, gentle care and knowing when to ask for support. By avoiding these common mistakes, you give your piercing the calm, stable environment it needs to heal beautifully.

Remember, we’re your partner in this process from start to finish. If you have any questions at all, we’re here to help. Reach out to the team via Whatsapp or Instagram and we will be back to you ASAP

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