Ear piercing 101

What is an appropriate age for my child to get their ears pierced? Is it safe?

When the piercing is performed carefully and cared for correctly, there is little to no risk, no matter the age of the child. However, I would recommend waiting until your child can take care of the pierced site themselves. 

Who should pierce my child’s ears?

Have a doctor, nurse or an experienced technician perform the piercing. At the time of the piercing a disinfectant, like rubbing alcohol, should be used to reduce the risk of infection. Gold-post earrings should be used as the first earring after the piercing because gold reduces the risk of allergic reaction and inflammation at the piercing site. 

What about aftercare?

Continual aftercare should be provided to the piercing site until completely healed. This includes using rubbing alcohol or an antibiotic ointment to the pierced site two times a day to help eliminate chance of infection. Do not remove the earring for at least six weeks. However, the earring should be gently rotated each day.

What about cartilage piercings?

I recommend only having piercings done through the earlobe, as piercings which go through the cartilage of the ear have a higher risk of infection which can lead to deformity.

Seek medical attention if the piercing site becomes red or tender as an infection may be developing.