6 Steps to Safely Remove and Heal Your Tragus Piercing

6 Steps to Safely Remove and Heal Your Tragus Piercing

A person with a tragus piercing

Taking off a tragus piercing is not as simple as removing an earring from a lobe piercing. Tragus piercings are located in the thick cartilage of the outer ear, and the jewelry is typically held in place by a tight-fitting ball or bead. If the jewelry is not removed correctly, it can cause pain, bleeding, and even infection.

Before you attempt to take off a tragus piercing, it is important to gather the necessary tools. You will need a pair of sterile piercing forceps, a sterile cotton ball, and a mild antiseptic solution. Once you have gathered your tools, follow these steps to remove the jewelry:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Sterilize the piercing forceps by dipping them in antiseptic solution.
3. Position the forceps around the ball or bead at the end of the jewelry.
4. Gently squeeze the forceps to loosen the ball or bead.
5. Once the ball or bead is loose, carefully remove the jewelry from the piercing.
6. Clean the piercing with a sterile cotton ball soaked in antiseptic solution.
7. Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the piercing to help keep it moist.

Loosen the Top Ball

Once you’ve disinfected your hands and pierced area, firmly grip the top ball of your tragus piercing. Using your other hand, grasp the barbell or labret securely close to the piercing. Slowly twist the top ball counterclockwise to loosen it. Do not pull or yank the ball, as this could damage or tear your piercing.

4. Remove the Barbell or Labret

Once the top ball is completely loose, carefully remove it. You may need to gently pry it off using a clean pair of tweezers if it’s stuck. Next, hold the barbell or labret securely and slowly slide it out of the piercing hole. Be patient and avoid jerking or tugging, as this could cause discomfort or further injury.

If you’re removing a curved barbell, pay attention to the direction of the bend. The barbell should be removed so that the bend curves away from your tragus. This will help prevent any snags or tears.

For a labret stud, simply unscrew the top ball and then carefully remove the post from the piercing hole.

Piercing Type Removal Method
Curved Barbell Slide the barbell out so that the bend curves away from the tragus
Labret Stud Unscrew the top ball and remove the post

Apply Antiseptic Solution

Once you have gathered your supplies and prepared your workspace, it’s time to apply an antiseptic solution to the piercing and the surrounding area. This will help to prevent infection and make the piercing easier to remove.

There are a few different antiseptic solutions that you can use, such as rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or a commercial piercing cleaner. The best solution for you will depend on your individual skin type and the type of piercing you have.

To apply the antiseptic solution, simply soak a cotton ball or gauze pad in the solution and gently wipe it around the piercing and the surrounding area. Be sure to avoid getting the solution in your eye.

Once you have applied the antiseptic solution, wait a few minutes for it to dry before proceeding to the next step.

How to Choose the Right Antiseptic Solution for Your Piercing

The best antiseptic solution for your piercing will depend on your individual skin type and the type of piercing you have. Here is a general guide to help you choose the right solution:

Skin Type Type of Piercing Best Antiseptic Solution
Sensitive skin New piercing Commercial piercing cleaner
Normal skin Healed piercing Rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide

How to Take Off a Tragus Piercing

Removing a tragus piercing can be done at home with care and the right tools. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Gather your tools: You will need a mirror, a pair of sterile gloves, and a pair of piercing pliers.
  2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a clean towel.
  3. Put on the sterile gloves.
  4. Hold the piercing pliers in one hand and the tragus piercing in the other hand.
  5. Gently squeeze the pliers around the piercing and twist it clockwise until it comes out.
  6. Remove the piercing from the pliers and dispose of it properly.
  7. Clean the piercing site with a sterile saline solution.

People Also Ask About How to Take Off a Tragus Piercing

Does removing a tragus piercing hurt?

The level of pain experienced when removing a tragus piercing can vary from person to person. Some people report feeling mild pain or discomfort, while others may feel a sharp pain. It is important to note that the piercing may be more sensitive when it is first removed.

Can I remove my tragus piercing myself?

Yes, it is possible to remove a tragus piercing yourself at home. However, it is important to follow the steps outlined above carefully to avoid any complications.

How long does it take for a tragus piercing to close?

The time it takes for a tragus piercing to close can vary depending on the individual’s healing process. In general, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for the piercing to fully close.