7 Ways to Prepare to Have Your Ears Pierced
17th September 2024Having your ears pierced might sound like a simple enough thing to have done, but when you’ve never done it before, it can be a bit of an overwhelming experience. In this article, we’ll be explaining the different ways in which you can prepare to have your ears pierced, regardless of where on the ear the piercing is going to be. Here are seven ways to prepare for having your ears pierced, whether it’s your first time having it done or otherwise.
1. Choose the right location for you
When it comes to having your ears pierced, it’s important that you’re choosing a location that’s right and convenient for you. Whether you’re looking to drive, walk or go in on the bus, you need to make sure that you’re having your ears pierced somewhere that is easy and stress-free to get to. It’s only a small thing, but you’ll find that it makes all the difference, especially if you’re feeling a little bit nervous about your experience.
2. Know which types of ear piercings are available
When it comes to ear piercings, we automatically think of ear lobes. This is because they’re one of the most popular types of piercing. More often than not, two holes can actually be made in the ear lobe, one at the front and one at the back.
But did you know that there are other locations along the ear where a piercing can be made? As such, you need to be sure of the one you’d like. Do your research to gain your knowledge. Alternatively, you could always visit an ear piercing technician to ask them for advice. In summary, here are the different places along the ear where a piercing is possible, according to BYRDIE:
- Industrial – right at the top of the ear, on the outer wall
- Helix – the outermost part of the ear, towards the top
- Rook – towards the middle of the ear, where the cartilage is hard
- Forward helix – this sits right at the edge of the inner ear, where the ear meets the head
- Inner conch – in the middle of the ear, within the curved, hard bit of cartilage
- Snug – close to the outer part of the ear, where the cartilage begins to harden up slightly
- Auricle – along the outer part of the ear
- Daith – towards the tragus, but further up the ear
- Conch – the middle of the inner ear, where the cartilage is hard and curved
- Tragus – the flap of skin that meets the head and joined to the ear
- Outer conch – towards the lower, inner ear
- Anti-tragus – in between the standard lobe and high-lobe piercing
- Standard lobe – normal location for an ear lobe piercing
- High-lobe – on the ear lobe, but higher up
- Orbital – the outside of the ear
3. Pick the right ear piercing
Now that you know about the different types of ear piercings that are available, it’s time for you to decide which one is right for you. Are you looking for a classic piercing or one that is more edgy? For the former, opt for a simple ear lobe piercing, but for the latter, choose one that sits further up on the ear.
While you should know which type of ear piercing you would like before you attend your appointment, there’s always the option to discuss your choices with friends, family and even the technician who is going to be carrying out the ear piercing. Make sure you’re making the correct choice before you commit.
4. Consider your hairstyle for the day
Again, this might sound like a silly thing to touch upon when it comes to having your ears pierced, but it’s actually quite an important part of the process. You need to make sure that your hair isn’t obstructing the earlobes or the ear holes. Not only does this make the job easier for the person who is doing your ear piercing, but it also helps to limit irritation and infection of the newly-pierced ear holes. Keep your ear lobes free from any obstructions and irritants, including having your hair down and wearing turtle-neck jumpers, scarves and hats. Also, be careful not to smother the newly-pierced holes in other things, like shampoo or shower gels.
5. Ask the technician questions if you’re unsure
This is normally something that people do if they feel nervous or anxious about having their ears pierced. It can sometimes involve the use of scary-looking equipment. So it’s alright to ask the technician what everything is, why it’s used and what it’s used for. They’ll always be more than happy to talk you through everything so as to ensure that you’re feeling completely at ease.
Whether it be the equipment, the process or the aftercare that you’re unsure about, make sure you ask the right questions so as to ensure you feel completely at ease with everything before committing. Remember, there will be multiple stages along the way where you’ll have the chance to back out, if you really want to. There’s absolutely no pressure.
6. Make sure you know what is expected by way of aftercare
When you have your ears pierced, it creates a wound. Any wound, no matter how small, needs to be looked after. This ensures it doesn’t become worse or get infected. The person doing your ear piercing will give you a few hints and tips for keeping the wounds clean. They will also give you some advice to prevent the hole from healing over.
As soon as the piercing is removed, the body will work to heal over the hole. Obviously, this needs to be avoided if you’re wanting to wear earrings for the rest of your life. Usually, it’ll be advised to keep the earrings in for at least six weeks before taking them out. Not only does this stop the holes from healing over, but it also reduces the risk of infection.
Follow the recommendations and advice of the person who is doing your ear piercing. They may also suggest buying a cleaning solution that can be applied to the holes, carefully, using a cotton bud. Normally, the earrings themselves do not need to be removed. Instead, swab around the earrings themselves. Make sure you follow the instructions on the bottle for maximum effectiveness.
7. Eat & drink plenty
This might sound like a tip that is a little out of the ordinary. But having a piercing of any kind might be somewhat of a challenge for some. Especially seeing as it’ll involve the use of needles, albeit a very small one. It can make some people feel funny and light-headed as a result. This is why it’s important that you’ve eaten and are hydrated before your appointment.
This way, your body will be in a much better condition to handle things. If you do start to feel nauseous, you need to notify a member of staff and sit down as soon as possible. They will be able to advise you further. Whether it be the person getting their ears pierced or the person who has come as moral support.
Little Star Jewellery is pleased to offer a wide range of stunning earrings to be worn by men, women and children alike. Whether you’re looking to add to your collection or want to give someone you treasure a gift that will be loved through the generations, we’ll have a pair of earrings that will stand out from the crowd. We also have various other jewellery pieces available including necklaces, bracelets and christening bangles, all of which are ideal if you’re looking for a special gift that will stand the test of time. If you’d like further information, get in touch with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team today – we’re always happy to hear from you.