How To Treat An Infected Ear Piercing At Home

Infected piercings can be caused by touching your ear with dirty hands, so it’s important to give them a quick wash every time you touch your piercing.

The area may sting slightly when you use the solution, but it won’t be very painful. Avoid using rubbing alcohol or alcohol-based solutions on the infected area, as these can irritate the area and delay healing. Gently pat the area dry afterwards with a paper towel, tissue, or cotton swab. Avoid using a towel, as it might irritate the ear. If both ears are infected, use a different swab or gauze for each ear.

Leave the earring in your ear unless you’re told otherwise by a doctor. Removing the earring can irritate your earlobe more, leading to more swelling and redness.

Afterwards, dry your ear gently by patting it down with a paper towel or tissue.

Red, swollen, or throbbing ear Warmth on the area Discharge or pus from the piercing Fever or chills Infections usually develop within 2-4 weeks after the initial piercing, although it is possible to develop an infection even years after getting your ears pierced. [6] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

If your infection is very minor, you may just need to use an OTC cream for longer. Your doctor will tell you exactly what to do.

Pills are usually needed if you have a cartilage piercing that has become infected, but they can also be used for earlobe piercings.

Your doctor may apply a warm compress to your ear to drain the abscess or they may make an incision in the abscess.

If you have long hair, keep your hair up in a bun or ponytail so that it doesn’t hang by your ears. Avoid sleeping on your piercing if possible. Keep your bed sheets and pillow cases clean to avoid spreading the infection.

If you’re already dealing with an infection, stay out of the water until the infection clears up.

Allergies may appear as dry, red, or itchy skin around the site of the piercing. Continuing to wear nickel jewelry if you have an allergy can increase your risk of infection.