Ear piercing
ear piercing · earlobe piercing · piercing a child's ears · getting ears pierced
The earlobe is pierced with a sterile instrument, and an earring is put in right away. It takes a few minutes.
At an adult's own wish, or a parent's wish for a child.
⏱ Duration: the procedure usually takes 10 to 15 minutes; healing usually takes 6 to 8 weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Health. Piercing is done when you or your child are well, with no fever or cold.
- Hair. Pull your hair away from your ears with a clip or hair tie.
- For a child. Calmly explain to your child that it will be quick and only a little unpleasant.
What to bring
- Your ID
- The parent's ID and the child's birth certificate, if a child is being pierced
How it goes
- The earlobes are cleaned with antiseptic
- The spots are marked with a pen. You check that they are even
- Sometimes a numbing cream is put on
- A quick piercing, and the earring goes in right away
- The back is fastened, and the spot is cleaned again
- You are told how to care for the piercing
What you'll feel
- A quick prick, like a pinch
- The earlobe may burn and look red for a few hours
Afterwards
- Do not take out the first earrings for 6 to 8 weeks, or as long as you are told
- Clean the earlobes with antiseptic 1 to 2 times a day
- Do not touch the piercings with dirty hands
- For a few weeks, do not swim in pools, lakes, or the sea
Contact a doctor straight away if
- The earlobe is very swollen, painful, or has pus
- The back or the earring has sunk into the earlobe
- You get a fever
Common questions
At what age can a child have their ears pierced?
There is no strict age. Many parents wait until the child can care for their ears. Ask your pediatrician.
When can I change the earrings?
Usually after 6 to 8 weeks, when the piercing has healed. At first, smooth earrings made of a hypoallergenic metal are best.