Wash your hands before touching the piercing
Clean the area with sterile saline solution 2 times a day
Use a clean warm compress for 5 to 10 minutes several times a day
Avoid twisting, turning, or removing the jewelry
Do not sleep on the affected ear
Avoid touching, picking, or squeezing the piercing
Keep hair, makeup, and skincare products away from the area
Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and lakes until it improves
Make sure the jewelry is not too tight
Use hypoallergenic jewelry such as implant-grade titanium, surgical steel, or solid gold
Take over-the-counter pain relief if you can safely use it
Reduce irritation from headphones, helmets, and tight hats
Watch for signs of infection such as pus, worsening redness, heat, or fever
Seek medical care if swelling is severe, spreading, or not improving
Get urgent care if the jewelry is embedded or you have trouble breathing or facial swelling