Putting Earrings In Again for the First Time: A Guide for sensitive ears
If you've gone a while without wearing earrings, you might be excited to put them back in, but the process isn't always as simple as sliding them through like you used to. Over time, the holes in your ears can close up a little, and trying to force an earring through a smaller hole can lead to irritation or even damage. Don't worry though—it's totally normal, and with a little patience and care, you can comfortably wear earrings again. Here's how to do it the right way.
1. Don’t Force It
The first rule when putting earrings back in after a break is to never force the earring through the hole. It may have slightly shrunk or tightened up over time, which means you could experience discomfort if you push too hard. Forcing an earring in can lead to pain, irritation, and even injury to your ear. It's important to be gentle and give your ear time to adjust.
2. Know That Some Initial Irritation is Normal
You might feel some mild irritation or soreness as your skin stretches to accommodate the earring. This is completely normal. Just like how your skin stretches when you first get a piercing, the same thing can happen when you wear earrings after a long hiatus. The sensation of your earlobe stretching might feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but it should pass with time. As long as you’re not experiencing intense pain or swelling, this irritation is usually temporary and can be eased with a bit of care.
3. Prepare the Hole Before Inserting the Earring
If you want to make the process smoother and more comfortable, you can prepare the hole before attempting to insert the earring. Here's how:
- Massage the earlobe: Gently massage the skin around the piercing. This can help the skin loosen up and make the process of putting the earring in easier. You can also apply a small amount of a soothing oil or ointment like vitamin E oil to soften the skin and make it more pliable.
- Warm water: Soaking a cotton ball in warm water and gently pressing it against the piercing for a few minutes can help soften the skin and relax the area. This is especially useful if the hole feels tight.
4. Go Slow and Be Gentle
When you're ready to put the earring in, do so slowly and carefully. Start by gently twisting the earring back and forth instead of trying to push it straight through. The twisting motion will help gradually reopen the hole without causing too much strain on the tissue. If you feel any resistance, stop and try again later.
5. Be Patient and Take Your Time
If you don’t get the earring in on your first try, don’t worry. It may take a few attempts, or even a few days, to get the earring through comfortably. Your ear might need a little time to adjust, and that’s okay. Try again the next day or give yourself a break to allow your skin to relax.
6. Start with Lightweight Earrings
If you have multiple pairs of earrings and are excited to start wearing them again, start with lighter, smaller earrings. Heavy or large earrings can cause unnecessary stress on your ear, especially if the hole is still a little tight. Stick with studs or small hoops as your ears adjust to wearing jewelry again.
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7. Keep an Eye on Irritation and Infection
After you put the earring in, make sure to keep an eye on your ear for any signs of infection. Mild redness or irritation is common, but if you notice swelling, pus, or excessive pain, you might need to remove the earring and give your ear more time to heal. In that case, it’s best to consult a professional piercer or healthcare provider for advice.
Final Thoughts
Reopening an old ear piercing after a long time without earrings can feel a bit awkward, but with patience and care, you’ll soon be rocking your favorite accessories again. The key is to be gentle and to allow your ear time to adjust. Whether you’re simply reconnecting with your favorite pair of studs or you’re diving back into the world of statement earrings, enjoy the process and remember that a little care goes a long way. Happy accessorizing!