Stretching Piercing
Gradual stretching of a fully healed piercing. Slow and steady prevents blowouts and tears.
Healing Time
Rest 6–12 weeks between sizes
Cleaning
Twice daily
Downsize
N/A
Jewellery
Single flare or plugs, no acrylic long-term
Step by step
Healing timeline
Day 1
- Some tightness and pinching in the fresh size is normal
- No bleeding — if it bleeds, drop back a size
- Massage gently with jojoba or vitamin E oil
Week 1
- Continue daily oil massage
- Sleep on a clean pillowcase and avoid pressure
- No pools, hot tubs or shared baths in acrylic jewellery
Weeks 2–8
- Let the lobe settle fully before considering the next size
- Only single-flare plugs or glass/titanium/stone — no acrylic long-term
- If anything feels off, drop back a size
Between stretches
- Rest 6–12 weeks between sizes
- Never skip sizes — it's the fastest way to a blowout
- If in doubt, come in for a check before the next stretch
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
- Forcing a size that isn't ready
- Skipping sizes
- Acrylic jewellery worn long-term
- Blowouts from too much pressure
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 stretching piercing
Stretching tips
- Never force jewellery in. If it doesn't glide, stop
- Massage with jojoba or vitamin E oil daily
- Skip no more than one size at a time
- Wait until fully healed before the next stretch
- Swap out acrylic for glass, stone or titanium long-term
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