Getting pierced is exciting, but the task of putting in the earring for the first time can be daunting and a bit frightening. Especially when the piercing is in your ear, the thought of fumbling around and accidentally poking the wrong spot or getting bacteria in the wound is enough to make anyone nervous. To make it easier, here are the comprehensive steps on how to put in an earring for the first time without any pain or hassle. Follow each step carefully, and you’ll be able to put your new earrings in no time! Make sure to have a pair of clean hands, a mirror, and your new earrings ready before you begin.
First, before you even think about putting in your new earrings, you’ll need to gather your supplies. You’ll need a pair of clean hands, a mirror, and your new earrings. Once you have your supplies, it’s time to start preparing the earring and your ear. Clean your hands with soap and water. Then, use an alcohol wipe to clean the earring posts. If you have a new piercing, you’ll also need to clean the piercing with an alcohol wipe. Now, position yourself in front of a mirror so you can see what you’re doing. Grip the earring post with your thumb and forefinger, and line up the post with the piercing hole. Gently push the post through the hole, and then secure the earring back in place. You may feel a slight pinch as the earring goes through the hole, but it shouldn’t be painful.
Finally, after you’ve put in your new earrings, it’s important to keep the piercing clean. This will help to prevent infection and speed up the healing process. Clean the piercing twice a day with an alcohol wipe, and be sure to wash your hands before and after touching the piercing. If you experience any pain, redness, or swelling, remove the earring and consult a doctor. Taking care of a new piercing is essential to ensure that it heals properly. By following these simple steps, you can put in your new earrings with confidence and keep your piercing healthy.
Selecting the Right Earrings
Choosing the ideal earrings is crucial for a comfortable and stylish piercing experience. Here are some essential considerations to keep in mind when selecting your earrings:
Material: The material of your earrings can impact your skin’s reaction and the durability of the jewelry.
– Hypoallergenic metals, such as surgical stainless steel, titanium, and niobium, are suitable for sensitive ears and are less likely to cause irritation.
– Gold and silver are popular options due to their durability and classic appeal, but they can be more expensive.
– Plastic or acrylic earrings are lightweight and inexpensive, but they may not be as long-lasting as other materials.
Size and Shape: The size and shape of your earrings should complement your facial features and the occasion.
– Small studs are a versatile choice that suit most face shapes and can be worn for everyday wear.
– Dangling earrings add a touch of elegance and movement, but they may not be suitable for certain activities or face shapes.
– Hoops are a classic and stylish option, available in various sizes and thicknesses.
Clasp Type: The clasp type ensures that your earrings stay securely in place.
– Push backs are easy to use and suitable for studs or small earrings.
– Screw backs provide a more secure fit for larger or heavy earrings.
– Hook backs are comfortable and suitable for dangling earrings.
– Lever backs offer a secure and easy-to-open mechanism.
| Clasp Type |
Description |
Suitable for |
| Push Backs |
Small, easy-to-use clasps that slide onto the earring post. |
Studs, small earrings |
| Screw Backs |
Secure clasps that screw onto the earring post. |
Larger earrings, heavy earrings |
| Hook Backs |
Curved clasps that hook over the back of the ear. |
Dangling earrings |
| Lever Backs |
Secure clasps that open and close with a lever mechanism. |
Dangling earrings, earrings with larger stones |
Proper Piercing Location
Finding the Right Spot
Selecting the ideal location for your ear piercing is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you determine the most flattering spot for your specific ear anatomy:
**1. Lobe:**
The lobe is the most common piercing location. It’s a fleshy, low-pain area that allows for a variety of earring styles. For a classic look, pierce it horizontally through the center, or experiment with multiple piercings for a chic, edgy effect.
**2. Helix:**
The helix refers to the upper cartilage rim of the ear. There are several options within the helix, including the following:
- **Upper Helix:** Pierced near the top of the helix, this spot is slightly higher and more visible than the standard helix piercing.
- **Standard Helix:** Located in the middle of the helix, this piercing offers a more versatile placement, allowing for larger hoops and studs.
- **Forward Helix:** Pierced on the inner edge of the helix, facing forward, this type provides a unique and edgy touch.
- **Lower Helix:** Pierced near the bottom of the helix, it offers a more subtle option that’s perfect for smaller jewelry.
**3. Tragus:**
The tragus is the small, fleshy bump that partially covers the ear canal. It’s a low-pain area and can accommodate smaller studs or rings.
**4. Other:**
Depending on your preference and ear anatomy, there are additional piercing locations to consider, such as the rook, conch, or industrial. It’s recommended to consult with a professional piercer for the most suitable option for you.
Sterilizing Your Equipment
Before you begin the piercing process, it is important to sterilize all of your equipment. This will help to prevent infection.
To sterilize your equipment, you will need:
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
- Cotton balls or gauze
- Sterile gloves
- Earring gun and earrings
Follow these steps to sterilize your equipment:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Put on sterile gloves.
- Open the isopropyl alcohol container and pour some of the alcohol onto a cotton ball or gauze pad.
- Wipe down the piercing gun and earrings with the cotton ball or gauze pad.
- Let the equipment air dry.
Sterilizing Your Earring Gun
Earring guns can be difficult to sterilize because of their intricate parts. To ensure that your earring gun is properly sterilized, it is important to:
- Disassemble the piercing gun according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Soak the parts of the piercing gun in isopropyl alcohol for at least 10 minutes.
- Rinse the parts of the piercing gun with distilled water.
- Air dry the parts of the piercing gun.
- Reassemble the piercing gun.
By following these steps, you can help to prevent infection and ensure that your ear piercing is a safe and successful experience.
Positioning the Earring
Once you have your earring and the piercing hole lined up, it’s time to insert the earring. Before you do that, make sure your hands are clean and you’re in a well-lit area. This will help you see what you’re doing and avoid any accidents.
To position the earring, gently hold the back of the earring against the back of your earlobe, and the front of the earring against the front of your earlobe. Make sure that the post of the earring is going through the piercing hole.
Once the earring is in place, tighten the back of the earring. You don’t want it to be too tight, but you want it to be snug enough that the earring won’t fall out.
Types of Earring Backs
| Type |
Description |
Pros |
Cons |
| Push Backs |
A metal post with a small plastic or rubber disc that pushes onto the back of the earring. |
Inexpensive, easy to use, and secure. |
Can be uncomfortable if not fitted properly. |
| Screw Backs |
A metal post with a threaded end that screws onto the back of the earring. |
Very secure, less likely to fall out. |
Can be difficult to screw on, especially if your fingers are shaky. |
| Butterfly Backs |
A flat metal piece that folds over the back of the earring post. |
Easy to use, comfortable, and inexpensive. |
Can be less secure than other types of earring backs. |
| Hoop Backs |
A small hoop that closes by twisting the ends together. |
Stylish and secure, easy to put on and take off. |
Can be difficult to find in the right size. |
Inserting the Backing
Once the earring is through the piercing, it’s time to insert the backing. This can be a bit tricky, but with a little patience, you can get it done. Here are the steps:
- Hold the backing in one hand and the earring post in the other.
- Align the backing with the post.
- Gently push the post into the backing until it clicks into place.
- Make sure the backing is on securely.
If you’re having trouble getting the backing on, you can try using a pair of pliers to gently squeeze it onto the post. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, or you could damage the earring.
Here are some tips for inserting the backing:
- If the backing is too loose, it could fall off and you could lose your earring.
- If the backing is too tight, it could be difficult to remove and could cause pain.
- If you have any difficulty inserting the backing, you can ask a friend or family member for help.
| Backing Type |
How to Insert |
| Push-on backing |
Simply push the backing onto the earring post until it clicks into place. |
| Screw-on backing |
Screw the backing onto the earring post until it is tight. |
| Lock-in backing |
Push the earring post into the backing until it locks into place. |
Aftercare Instructions
Once you have successfully pierced your ear, proper aftercare is crucial to ensure a healthy and speedy healing process. Follow these steps diligently for optimal results:
-
Clean the piercing site twice a day
Use a sterile saline solution or a pre-made piercing aftercare solution. Apply it to the piercing site with a cotton ball or gauze pad.
-
Avoid touching or rotating the earring
This can irritate the piercing and delay healing.
-
Keep the piercing site dry
Avoid getting the piercing wet for at least 24 hours after it is done. After that, pat it dry gently with a clean towel.
-
Use non-scented, hypoallergenic products
Harsh chemicals or fragrances can irritate the piercing.
-
Avoid sleeping on the pierced ear
This can put pressure on the piercing and cause pain.
-
Eat a healthy diet
A healthy diet will help your body heal faster.
-
Contact your piercer if you experience any problems
If you experience any pain, swelling, redness, or discharge, contact your piercer immediately.
Handling Pain and Discomfort
Inserting an earring can cause mild pain and discomfort. Here are some tips to minimize this:
8. Apply a Cold Compress or Ice
Applying a cold compress or ice to the piercing area can help reduce swelling and pain. You can use a frozen washcloth, an ice pack, or a bag of frozen peas. Wrap the cold compress in a towel to avoid direct contact with the piercing.
Duration: Apply the cold compress for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Frequency: Repeat as needed for the first 24-48 hours after piercing.
Caution: Avoid applying ice directly to the piercing, as this can damage the skin.
| Tip |
Description |
| Use a numbing cream |
Apply a small amount of over-the-counter numbing cream to the piercing area 15-30 minutes before inserting the earring. |
| Lubricate the earring |
Dip the tip of the earring in petroleum jelly or a piercing lubricant to make it easier to insert. |
| Take deep breaths |
Focus on taking deep breaths to relax and reduce pain. |
| Apply tea tree oil |
Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to the piercing area. |
Troubleshooting Tips
9. Can’t Get the Earring Through the Hole
If you can’t seem to get the earring through the hole, try these tips:
- Lubricate the Ear Lobe: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or olive oil to the ear lobe and the earring post.
- Use a Piercing Needle: If the hole has closed up slightly, carefully insert a piercing needle through the hole. Then remove the needle and try inserting the earring.
- Sterilize the Earlobe: Clean the earlobe and earring with rubbing alcohol to remove any bacteria or debris that may be causing irritation.
- Re-Pierce the Hole: If all else fails, you may need to re-pierce the hole. This should only be done by a professional piercer.
-
Pain or Swelling: If you experience severe pain or swelling after getting your ears pierced, remove the earrings and consult a doctor. This could be a sign of infection.
-
Skin Irritation: If the skin around the piercing becomes red, itchy, or dry, it may be irritated. Clean the piercing with rubbing alcohol and avoid touching it with your hands.
-
Nickel Allergy: If you have a nickel allergy, avoid earrings that contain nickel. Look for earrings made from hypoallergenic metals such as surgical steel, titanium, or gold.
-
Infection: If the piercing becomes infected, it may be red, swollen, and painful. You may also have a fever or chills. See a doctor immediately to get antibiotics.
Piercing Aftercare
1. Clean the Piercing Regularly
Clean the piercing twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Use a saline solution or a mild soap and water mixture to clean the piercing. Soak a cotton ball or gauze pad in the solution and gently wipe the piercing.
2. Don’t Overclean the Piercing
Overcleaning the piercing can irritate the skin and delay healing. Clean the piercing twice a day, but avoid cleaning it more often.
3. Don’t Touch the Piercing
Avoid touching the piercing, as this can introduce bacteria and cause infection. If you need to touch the piercing, wash your hands thoroughly first.
4. Avoid Swimming
Avoid swimming for at least 24 hours after getting a piercing. Swimming can introduce bacteria into the piercing and cause infection.
5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, to clean the piercing. These chemicals can irritate the skin and delay healing.
6. Rotate the Earring Gently
Rotate the earring gently once or twice a day to prevent it from sticking to the skin. Be careful not to over-rotate the earring, as this can irritate the piercing.
7. Watch for Signs of Infection
Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. If you notice any of these signs, see a doctor immediately.
8. Take Care of Your Overall Health
Get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly to support your overall health and promote healing. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can delay healing.
9. Be Patient
It takes time for a piercing to heal. Be patient and follow the aftercare instructions carefully. Most piercings will heal within 4-8 weeks.
10. See a Doctor if You Have Any Concerns
If you have any concerns about your piercing, such as pain, swelling, or infection, see a doctor immediately. A doctor can assess the piercing and provide appropriate treatment.
How To Put In An Earring
Putting in an earring can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to it. But with a little practice, you’ll be able to do it like a pro in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put in an earring:
- Wash your hands and the earring. This will help to prevent infection.
- Insert the earring post into the hole in your earlobe. Hold the earring parallel to your earlobe and push the post into the hole. You may need to apply a little pressure, but don’t force it.
- Once the post is through the hole, push the back of the earring onto the post. Make sure that the back is facing the correct way, so that the earring will stay in place.
- Check to make sure that the earring is secure. If it’s too loose, it could fall out. If it’s too tight, it could be uncomfortable or even painful.
Here are some additional tips for putting in earrings:
- If you’re having trouble getting the earring post through the hole, try using a pair of tweezers.
- If your earlobes are sensitive, you may want to use a topical anesthetic cream before putting in your earrings.
- Don’t wear earrings that are too heavy, as they can stretch out your earlobes.
- If you develop any pain, redness, or swelling around your earrings, remove them and consult a doctor.
People Also Ask About How To Put In An Earring
How do I know if my ear piercing is infected?
Signs of an infected ear piercing include pain, redness, swelling, and discharge. If you think your ear piercing may be infected, see a doctor right away.
How long does it take for an ear piercing to heal?
Ear piercings typically take 6-8 weeks to heal. However, it’s important to keep the piercing clean and dry during the healing process to prevent infection.
Can I put earrings in my cartilage?
Yes, it’s possible to put earrings in your cartilage. However, cartilage piercings can take longer to heal and are more likely to get infected. It’s important to see a professional piercer if you’re considering getting a cartilage piercing.
