Getting a lobe piercing is a fun and stylish choice—but without the right care, even something so simple can become uncomfortable or lead to complications. Many people struggle with irritation, swelling, or even infections that could have been avoided with the right information.
In this post, we’ll explore common lobe piercing mistakes, how to avoid them, and how to take care of your piercing to ensure a smooth healing journey from day one.
Mistake #1: Touching Your Piercing with Unwashed Hands
One of the most common reasons for piercing infections is touching the area with dirty hands. Even if your fingers look clean, they carry bacteria that can transfer to the open wound created by the piercing.
How to avoid it:
Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching or cleaning your piercing. Avoid unnecessary handling.
Mistake #2: Skipping the Aftercare Routine
Piercing aftercare isn’t optional—it’s essential. Skipping or inconsistently following your aftercare routine increases the risk of irritation and infection, and can slow down the healing process.
How to avoid it:
Clean your piercing twice daily using a sterile saline solution or a piercing-safe cleanser. Avoid harsh products like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can damage healing tissue.
Mistake #3: Sleeping on the Piercing Too Soon
Applying pressure to your new piercing by sleeping on it too soon can cause pain, swelling, and even misalignment.
How to avoid it:
Try to sleep on your back or on the opposite side. If needed, use a travel pillow or a special donut-shaped pillow that keeps pressure off your ear.
Mistake #4: Changing Earrings Before Healing Completes
Changing your earrings too soon—before the lobe is fully healed—can disrupt the healing process or cause infection. The piercing hole might even close up if earrings are removed early.
How to avoid it:
Wait at least 6 to 8 weeks before switching out your starter studs. Even if the piercing appears healed externally, internal healing takes longer.
Mistake #5: Choosing the Wrong Piercing Location or Method
Getting pierced at a kiosk with a piercing gun may seem convenient, but it’s not always the safest option. Piercing guns can cause unnecessary trauma to the tissue and aren’t always properly sterilized.
How to avoid it:
Opt for a professional piercing studio or spa that uses sterilized needles and follows proper hygiene protocols.
Warning Signs of an Infected Lobe Piercing
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, your piercing may be infected:
- Redness and swelling that persists for more than a few days
- Warmth or throbbing at the site
- Yellow or green discharge
- Crusting, pain, or itching that worsens over time
Addressing these signs early can prevent more serious complications.
Use the Right Jewelry for Healing
Another overlooked cause of irritation is low-quality jewelry. Earrings made of nickel or non-hypoallergenic materials can trigger allergic reactions and delay healing.
How to avoid it:
Choose hypoallergenic materials like surgical steel, titanium, or 14k gold during the healing period.
Visit Merle Norman Day Spa at Guildford Town Centre for Safe and Professional Piercing
At Merle Norman Day Spa, we provide safe, hygienic lobe piercing services tailored to all age groups. Our team follows strict sanitation practices and uses high-quality jewelry to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.
If you’re ready to get your ears pierced—or need advice on healing an existing piercing—we’re here to help.
Book your appointment today at Merle Norman Day Spa, Guildford Town Centre.