Ear piercing is safe and simple, but just to take some precautions, here are some important guidelines to follow when you get it done. If you know what to expect during the piercing and how to take care of your ear afterward, you’ll limit your chances of infection.
i) How does ear piercing work?
Depending on where you go for your piercing, and the part of your ear that you choose, a professional with a needle or piercing gun marks a spot and creates a hole. The piercer then places an earring in the hole.
ii) How young is too young for ear piercing?
This is up to you. In some cultures, parents have their baby’s ears pierced hours or days after birth. The American Academy of Paediatrics says there’s no health risk at any age, as long the setting and procedure are safe and sterile. But they also suggest that you wait until your child is old enough to handle the care involved afterward.
If you choose to have your child’s ears pierced, start small. Round, flat earrings are best. Avoid anything big or dangly that can catch on clothing and tear your child’s earlobe.
iii) Which is safer, a piercing gun or a needle?
Generally a piercing needle is a better option than a piercing gun, for many reasons. Needles are generally cleaner, more accurate, and less painful than guns.
-Will I feel pain?
Yes, at least a little. But anesthesia is a rare need.
-Will I bleed?
Possibly. A little bleeding is normal.
-What medical conditions would prevent me from piercing my ears?
Skin issues in the area you want pierced, including a lesion, rash, lump, cut, or mole.
-Wh the rat areisks?
There are almost no such chances that lead to any serious situations. But since piercing breaks your skin, it may open the door to some minute allergic reactions.
iv) Who should do the piercing?
Only a professional. Some paediatricians do piercings on young children. Make sure you do research on ear piercing professionals beforehand. Ask people you trust for recommendations, and visit a few piercers to get a feel for the place and person.
v) What kind of jewelry should I choose?
Look for platinum, nickel free 18K/14K Gold or Sterling Silver.
vi) What are the different types of ear piercings?
You can make holes in about 15 places on your ear:
-Lobe
-Upward along the outer cartilage
-Inward along the part of the ear attached to your head
-Several places in the centre.
