Health Tip: Reduce Infection Risk After Ear Piercing

And help speed healing

June 27, 2011 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- Newly pierced ears can be prime candidates for infection, but proper care can help reduce the risk.

The American Academy of Pediatricians offers these suggestions:

Make sure an experienced technician, nurse or doctor performs the procedure, and that a disinfectant is applied to the ears before piercing.
After the procedure, gently cleanse the ears with rubbing alcohol two to three times a day.
Apply antibiotic ointment after each cleaning.
Carefully turn the earring posts each day.
Do not remove the earrings for at least six weeks.