Can You Swim After Getting Ears Pierced?

Swimming right after getting your ears pierced is a bad idea. The fresh piercing is an open wound, and exposing it to water—whether it’s from a pool, lake, or ocean—can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection. It can also slow down the healing process. To make sure your piercing heals properly, it’s best to wait at least 6 weeks before swimming. In the meantime, keeping your ear clean and dry is key to avoiding complications.

What Happens When You Get Your Ears Pierced?

When you get your ears pierced, a small hole is made in your earlobe or cartilage, and your body immediately starts healing. It’s a process that takes time, and your ear will go through different stages as it heals. Here’s what to expect in the first few weeks:

Right After the Piercing (First Few Days) 

Straight after the piercing, your ear will probably be swollen and tender. It might bleed a little, which is completely normal. You could also notice some clear or yellowish stuff coming out of the piercing—again, that’s just part of the healing process. Your ear’s going to be pretty sensitive, so don’t mess with it too much. Keep your hands clean and avoid touching it unless you have to.

Week 2-3: Less Swelling, Still Tender

By the second or third week, the swelling should go down, but your ear’s still going to be a little sore. It shouldn’t hurt as much as the first few days, but it might still feel sensitive to the touch. Your ear might still be a bit red or irritated, which is totally normal, but keep an eye on it. If you notice any signs of infection like more redness, warmth, or pus, it’s time to take action. Keep cleaning it gently and avoid messing with the piercing.

Week 4-6: Things Are Looking Better By now, your piercing should be looking much better. The swelling will likely be gone, and the tissue around the hole will be healing. It might still feel a bit tender at times, but it’s much more stable. At this point, you’re in the home stretch, but it’s still important to be careful and keep up with cleaning.

What to Do If You've Swam Before Your Piercing Has Healed

If you've already swum before your piercing has healed, here’s what you should do right away:

1. Clean the Piercing Immediately

After swimming, clean the area immediately with a saline solution or mild wound wash. This helps rinse away any bacteria or contaminants that might have entered the piercing. Be gentle when cleaning—don’t twist or move the jewelry, as this could cause irritation.

2. Check for Infection Signs

Keep a close eye on your piercing for the next few days. If you notice increased redness, swelling, pain, or any discharge (especially thick or yellowish), these could be signs of infection. If anything seems off, it’s best to contact a professional or piercer.

3. Avoid Water Exposure Going Forward

If you’ve swum before healing, don’t risk it again. Avoid swimming in pools, lakes, oceans, or hot tubs until your piercing is completely healed to prevent further irritation or infection.

4. Keep the Area Dry and Clean

Make sure to dry the area thoroughly after cleaning it. Moisture can cause bacteria to grow, which could slow down healing. Use a clean towel or tissue to gently pat the piercing dry.

5. Be Extra Careful in the Next Few Weeks

Even if you didn’t notice any problems after swimming, now’s the time to be extra cautious. Stick to a gentle cleaning routine, avoid touching your piercing with dirty hands, and keep the area dry. The more careful you are now, the faster and smoother your healing will be.

How to Maintain Ear Cleanliness During Healing

Keeping your ear clean while it heals is essential to avoid infection and ensure it heals properly. Here are some tips to help you maintain cleanliness during the healing process:

1. Clean It Regularly

Use a saline solution (either store-bought or homemade with salt and warm water) to clean your piercing twice a day. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can irritate the skin and dry it out. Soak a cotton ball or clean gauze with the saline solution and gently clean around the piercing. Don’t twist or move the jewelry too much as it can cause friction and irritation.

2. Keep Your Ear Canal Clean

Regular ear cleaning helps maintain overall ear hygiene, preventing any bacteria from reaching your piercing. Using a gentle, effective tool like the bebird ear cleaning camera can help you safely remove excess wax and debris without irritating your piercing. The bebird device allows you to see inside your ear canal in real-time, making it easier to ensure that it’s clean and free of obstructions, which can reduce the risk of infection.

3. Avoid Touching Your Piercing

It’s tempting to touch or twist your new piercing, but try to resist. Your hands can introduce bacteria, and moving the jewelry too much can irritate the piercing. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching the area if it’s absolutely necessary.

4. Keep It Dry

Avoid submerging your ear in water—no swimming, and be cautious when showering. After cleaning your piercing, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel or tissue. Keeping the area dry helps prevent bacteria and fungi from growing, which is crucial for a healthy healing process.

Keep Your Ears Fresh with bebird’s Earwax Removal Tools

While you're taking care of your new ear piercing, it's also important to keep your ears clean and free of excess earwax. If you're tired of the traditional cotton swabs or struggling with other methods, Bebird’s ear cleaning tool is the perfect solution. Designed with precision and ease in mind, bebird's ear wax cleaning tools provide a safe and effective way to remove earwax without the risk of pushing it deeper into the ear canal.

Unlike other methods, which can sometimes be too harsh or ineffective, bebird’s advanced tools allow you to see exactly what you're doing with a built-in camera, ensuring you can clean your ears safely and efficiently. Regular use of Bebird’s ear cleaning tool can help maintain ear hygiene, prevent buildup, and keep your ears feeling fresh.

Whether you're maintaining your ear health or just looking for a more efficient ear cleaning routine, bebird's ear wax cleaning tools provide a modern, tech-savvy solution for your ear care needs.

Related: A Guide to Gauge Sizes for Ears: What You Need to Know

FAQs

How do I protect my newly pierced ears when swimming?

To protect your newly pierced ears when swimming, the best option is to avoid swimming in pools, lakes, or oceans until your piercing has fully healed. However, if you absolutely need to swim, consider using waterproof earplugs or a protective silicone cover that can seal off the piercing area and prevent water from entering. Make sure the cover fits snugly and doesn’t shift during swimming. Additionally, try to keep the piercing as dry as possible, and avoid any water-related activities that may cause irritation or infection.

How long after an ear piercing can I wash my hair?

You can wash your hair as soon as the next day after getting your ear piercing, but you should take precautions. Avoid letting shampoo or conditioner come into direct contact with the piercing. It's best to gently wash your hair without moving or touching the jewelry too much. Try to keep your ear clean and dry, and use a gentle, non-alcoholic saline solution to clean the piercing after washing your hair. Avoid scrubbing or applying products directly to the pierced area to prevent irritation.

What is the best waterproof bandage for ear piercings?

The best waterproof bandages for ear piercings are medical-grade silicone patches or waterproof bandages designed specifically for piercings. Look for options that are breathable, hypoallergenic, and designed to fit small areas like the ear. Products such as Mepore Soft or 3M Nexcare Waterproof Bandages are commonly recommended for piercing care. They create a waterproof barrier while still allowing the skin to breathe, which is crucial for proper healing. Always ensure that the bandage doesn’t apply too much pressure on the piercing, and use it sparingly to avoid irritation.