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Getting a new piercing is the fun part. Taking care of it properly? That’s where most people mess up.
And the truth is… most irritation, bumps, and “failed” piercings aren’t bad luck. They’re caused by a few super common mistakes. Let's fix that.
1. Touching It. Constantly.
We get it. You just got it. You want to look at it, twist it, check it every five seconds/ But every time you touch your piercing, you’re introducing bacteria and irritation.
What happens:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Irritation bumps
- Slower healing
What to do instead:
Hands off. Only touch it when you’re cleaning it.
2. Over-Cleaning (Yes, That’s a Thing)
More cleaning does NOT mean faster healing. Overdoing it can actually dry out your skin and cause irritation.
Common mistake:
- Cleaning 4–6 times a day
- Using harsh products (alcohol, peroxide, etc.)
What to do instead:
Clean 1–2 times a day with Hypochlorous Acid Aftercare Spray
3. Sleeping on It
This is one of the biggest reasons piercings get irritated.
Pressure + friction + movement all night = angry piercing.
What happens:
- Soreness
- Crooked healing
- Irritation bumps
What to do instead:
Try to avoid sleeping on it, especially in the early healing phase
Use a Piercing Pillow
This is exactly why flat back earrings are a game changer. No poking, no pressure digging into your skin while you sleep.
4. Changing Jewelry Too Soon
This one gets people ALL the time. Just because it “feels fine” doesn’t mean it’s healed. We get it - You're SO excited to swap out your stud for a hoop or your new favorite jewelry piece.
What happens:
- Reopening the piercing
- Irritation
- Infection risk
What to do instead:
Follow proper healing timelines (yes, even if you’re impatient).
5. Wearing the Wrong Jewelry
Not all earrings are created equal. Cheap metals and poorly designed backs are one of the biggest causes of irritation.
Watch out for:
- Mystery metals
- Nickel
- Bulky backs that trap moisture
- Earrings that poke or move too much
What to do instead:
Choose implant-grade titanium (what professional piercers trust)
Stick with flat back styles designed for healing and 24/7 wear
6. Letting Moisture Sit
Most people clean their piercing… and then leave it wet.
Moisture = bacteria’s best friend.
What happens:
- Irritation bumps
- Delayed healing
What to do instead:
Gently dry your piercing after cleaning or showering
Think clean AND dry
7. Twisting or Rotating the Jewelry
Old advice told people to twist their earrings. We don't do that anymore.
Why it’s bad:
- Tears healing tissue
- Causes irritation
- Slows healing
What to do instead:
Leave it alone. Your body knows what it’s doing.
8. Ignoring Early Signs of Irritation
A lot of people wait until things get bad before doing anything. But small irritation is way easier to fix early.
Watch for:
- Redness that isn’t improving
- Tenderness
- Small bumps forming
What to do instead:
Go back to basics: gentle cleaning, no touching, reduce pressure
9. Not Choosing the Right Post Length
This one is overlooked ALL the time.
Too short = pressure and swelling issues
Too long = movement and irritation
That’s exactly why we include both 6mm and 8mm post lengths with every flat back purchase! Your ears aren’t one-size-fits-all. While these sizes work for most, we do offer other lengths as well.
The Bottom Line
Most piercing problems aren’t random. They’re preventable.
If you:
- Leave it alone
- Clean it properly
- Keep it dry
- Wear high-quality jewelry
…your piercing has a MUCH better chance of healing smoothly.