Ear Lobe Piercing
Soft-tissue ear piercing. Heals quickly with a simple saline routine.
Healing Time
6–8 weeks
Cleaning
Twice daily
Downsize
Usually not required
Jewellery
Implant-grade titanium
Step by step
Healing timeline
Day 1
- A little tenderness and a spot of blood is normal
- Leave the jewellery alone. Do not spin or twist it
- Sleep on a clean pillowcase and change it weekly
Week 1
- Spray with NeilMed Fine Mist saline twice a day and pat dry with clean gauze
- Rinse the lobe last in the shower to wash off shampoo and conditioner
- Try to sleep on the opposite side
- No pools, hot tubs or shared baths
Weeks 2–8
- Tenderness fades and the crust reduces
- Keep the studs in — don't swap to fashion jewellery yet
- Keep hair products, dry shampoo and hairspray off the piercing
After healing
- From 8 weeks you can change to implant-grade titanium or solid gold
- Avoid cheap costume jewellery long-term — it can cause reactions
Reassurance
Normal during healing
Everyday sensations you can expect during healing.
Watch out for
When to contact us
Know the difference between typical irritation and something that needs attention.
Common issues
- Snagging on hair or towels
- Pillow pressure at night
- Backs done up too tight
Contact the studio
- Bump that isn't settling with a clean routine
- Persistent redness or tenderness beyond week 2–3
- Jewellery feeling tight against the skin
- Anything you're unsure about — send us a photo
Contact us urgently
If you notice any of these, contact us straight away. We'll advise whether to come in for a check-up or seek urgent medical care.
- Spreading redness or a red streak away from the piercing
- Hot skin with throbbing pain that worsens by the day
- Thick yellow or green discharge with a foul smell
- Fever, chills or feeling generally unwell
Helpful tips
Extra advice for your ear lobe piercing
Ear Lobe tips
- Sleep on a clean pillowcase and change it weekly
- Keep hair, hairspray and dry shampoo off the piercing
- Rinse the lobe last in the shower so no product sits on it
- Don't over-tighten the backs — leave a hair's gap
- No fashion or costume jewellery for at least 8 weeks
FAQs
Healing Checker
Answer a few quick questions tailored to the treatment you're viewing. We'll help you understand whether your healing appears normal and what you should do next.
Takes less than 60 seconds
Still need help?
Send us a clear photo and one of our experienced team members will review it and advise on the next steps. If appropriate, we'll recommend a studio check-up or seeking medical advice.
Studio Recommended · Aftercare
NeilMed Piercing Aftercare Spray
Professional aftercare recommended by our piercers. Sterile saline fine mist that keeps new piercings clean without burning or stinging.
- Sterile saline
- Drug free
- Any-angle mist
- 177ml bottle
Free UK delivery over £40