Cosmetic ear piercing is popular in many different regions and cultures. Some parents opt to have a child’s ears pierced when he or she is very young, putting the burden of cleanliness and piercing health on the parents. A better way may be to wait until the child is old enough to take on piercing hygiene by themselves.
Ear piercing with a needle and apple slice may be popular in movies, but is a bad idea in real life. A piercing like any other, ear piercing should be done using procedures so that the risk of infection is minimized.
A doctor, nurse, or qualified technician should perform the procedure. Sterile instruments should be used and the ear should be cleaned prior to piercing with a disinfectant such as rubbing alcohol.
The first earring should be round post style and made of gold. The gold reduces the chance that the wearer will have an allergic reaction to the metal.
The gold post earring should be worn consistently for 4-6 weeks or until the piercing site is fully healed. The earring should be rotated and cleaned with rubbing alcohol or ear piercing cleansing solution twice per day. If you notice signs of infection, such as redness, tenderness, or discharge from the piercing, seek medical attention.
