An infected ear piercing occurs when bacteria enter the piercing site, causing redness, swelling, pain, warmth, and discharge. It may result from improper aftercare, unsterile equipment, or irritation from jewelry. The infection can worsen if untreated, leading to complications such as abscess formation or systemic infection.
Early treatment with saline solution, warm compresses, and antibiotic ointments can often resolve minor infections. However, persistent or worsening symptoms may require professional medical care.
This guide explains how to treat an infected ear piercing and more. Click to jump right in:
If you have questions or need a professional ear piercing in Mississauga, call (905) 897-3503.
How To Treat An Infected Ear Piercing
To treat an infected ear piercing, clean the area twice daily with a sterile saline solution, apply a warm compress to reduce swelling, and use an antibiotic ointment is recommended. Avoid removing the jewelry unless instructed by a doctor, and monitor for signs of worsening infection, such as spreading redness, fever, or pus-filled abscesses.
Leave the Jewelry in Place Unless Advised Otherwise
Do not remove the earring unless instructed by a doctor, as doing so may cause the wound to close over the infection, leading to an abscess.
If the jewelry is causing an allergic reaction, replace it with a hypoallergenic alternative such as titanium, surgical steel, or 14k gold.
Avoid tight jewelry that may trap bacteria and irritate the area further.
Clean the Infected Piercing Twice Daily
Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching the piercing.
Use a mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water to cleanse the area gently.
Avoid applying alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can delay healing by irritating the tissue.
Pat the area dry with a clean paper towel or gauze (avoid reusable cloth towels that may harbor bacteria).
Use a Sterile Saline Solution to Flush the Infection
Mix ¼ teaspoon of non-iodized salt with 1 cup of warm distilled water to create a saline solution.
Soak a clean cotton pad or gauze in the solution and gently apply it to the infected area for 5–10 minutes.
Do not submerge your ear in non-sterile water, such as swimming pools, as this may introduce more bacteria.
Apply a Warm Compress to Reduce Swelling
Use a clean, soft cloth soaked in warm water and apply it to the infected area for 15-20 minutes, 3–4 times a day.
The warmth helps increase blood flow, promoting faster healing and reducing discomfort.
Avoid excessive heat, as this may worsen inflammation.
Apply a Topical Antibiotic Ointment If Recommended
Use over-the-counter antibiotic ointments like bacitracin or mupirocin to prevent bacterial spread.
Apply a thin layer around the piercing, but do not clog the hole with excessive ointment.
Avoid ointments containing neomycin, as some people may develop allergic reactions.
Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers to Reduce Discomfort
Use ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve pain and swelling.
Follow dosage instructions and avoid exceeding the recommended amount.
If pain worsens despite medication, seek medical advice.
Monitor the Infection and Watch for Signs of Worsening Symptoms
If the infection does not improve within 5–7 days, consult a healthcare provider.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
Fever
Spreading redness or red streaks from the piercing
Intense swelling causes the piercing hole to close
A pus-filled abscess or lump
Severe throbbing pain
Avoid Irritants That Can Worsen the Infection
Do not touch, twist, or move the jewelry excessively; this can introduce bacteria and delay healing.
Keep hair, makeup, and other products away from the infected area.
Avoid swimming in pools, lakes, or hot tubs until the infection clears.
Types of Ear Piercing Infections
Ear piercing infections can range from mild surface irritation to severe bacterial infections that require medical intervention.
1. Localized Cellulitis (Mild Infection)
Cause: Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes enter the piercing site.
Symptoms:
✔️ Redness and warmth around the piercing
✔️ Mild swelling and tenderness
✔️ Clear or slightly yellow discharge (not pus)
✔️ Itchiness or mild discomfort
Treatment:
Clean with a sterile saline solution twice daily.
Apply topical antibiotic ointment like mupirocin.
Use warm compresses to reduce swelling.
Avoid alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can delay healing.
🔎 When to seek medical attention: If symptoms persist beyond 5-7 days or swelling and pain worsen.
2. Abscess Formation (Pus-Filled Infection)
Cause: A blocked piercing hole leading to trapped bacteria and pus accumulation.
Symptoms:
✔️ A painful lump near the piercing
✔️ Yellow or green pus drainage
✔️ Skin may feel soft, swollen, and warm
✔️ Possible foul odor
Treatment:
Do not squeeze or pop the abscess.
Apply warm compresses 3-4 times a day to encourage drainage.
Seek medical attention for incision and drainage if the abscess is large.
Oral antibiotics like cephalexin or clindamycin may be required.
🔎 When to seek medical attention: If you develop a fever, spreading redness, or increasing pain, which may indicate a severe infection.
3. Cartilage Infection (Pseudomonas Infection)
Cause: Piercings in the cartilage (upper ear) are more prone to infections, especially from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacteria that thrives in moist environments (e.g., swimming pools, humid climates).
Symptoms:
✔️ Severe redness and swelling around the piercing
✔️ Hard lump or swelling that may feel firm to the touch
✔️ Pain that worsens over time
✔️ Risk of cartilage necrosis (tissue death) if untreated
Treatment:
Oral fluoroquinolone antibiotics (ciprofloxacin) to target Pseudomonas.
Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas during healing.
Keep the area dry and clean with a sterile saline solution.
Do not remove the jewelry unless instructed by a doctor.
🔎 When to seek medical attention: Immediately if cartilage becomes discolored, severely swollen, or deformed, this can lead to permanent ear damage.
4. Fungal Infections (Rare but Possible)
Cause: Yeast or fungal infections from prolonged moisture exposure, poor hygiene, or immune suppression.
Symptoms:
✔️ White or thick, scaly discharge around the piercing
✔️ Persistent itching and mild swelling
✔️ The infection doesn’t improve with antibiotics
Treatment:
Apply antifungal cream (e.g., clotrimazole).
Keep the area dry and aerated.
Avoid sweat buildup around the piercing.
🔎 When to seek medical attention: If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks or worsen.
Signs & Symptoms of an Infected Ear Piercing
An infected ear piercing occurs when bacteria enter the piercing site, leading to inflammation, irritation, and potential complications. Watch out for these signs and symptoms:
1. Redness and Swelling
The skin around the piercing may appear red, puffy, and irritated.
Swelling can cause the piercing hole to feel tighter around the jewelry.
This is the body’s natural immune response to an infection, increasing blood flow to the area to fight bacteria.
2. Pain or Tenderness
Mild soreness is normal for a fresh piercing, but increasing or persistent pain may indicate an infection.
Pain may worsen when touching or moving the jewelry.
Throbbing pain can suggest deeper tissue involvement.
3. Warmth in the Affected Area
The infected area may feel noticeably warmer than the surrounding skin.
This happens because increased blood circulation delivers white blood cells to fight the infection.
4. Unusual Discharge (Pus Formation)
A clear or slightly yellow fluid is normal for a healing piercing.
Thicker, yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge is a sign of infection.
If pus collects under the skin, an abscess (painful lump filled with fluid) may form.
5. Crusting Around the Piercing
Dry crust or scabbing around the hole is common, but excessive buildup may indicate persistent drainage.
Over-cleaning or picking at the crust can delay healing and worsen irritation.
6. Itching or Irritation
Some itching is normal during healing, but persistent, intense itching can signal an allergic reaction or infection.
If combined with redness, swelling, and discharge, an infection is likely developing.
7. Swollen Lymph Nodes (Indicating a Spreading Infection)
Lymph nodes in the jaw, neck, or behind the ear may swell if the body is fighting a significant infection.
Swollen lymph nodes feel like small, tender lumps under the skin.
8. Fever or Chills (Signs of a Systemic Infection)
A fever above 100.4°F (38°C) suggests the infection is spreading beyond the piercing site.
Chills, fatigue, and body aches indicate a more serious immune response requiring medical attention.
9. Red Streaks Extending from the Piercing
Thin red lines spreading outward from the piercing can signify cellulitis (a deep skin infection).
This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical treatment to prevent the infection from entering the bloodstream.
How An Infected Ear Piercing Looks Like
An infected ear piercing often appears red, swollen, and irritated, with the skin around the piercing looking puffy and inflamed. You might see yellow or green pus oozing from the site, sometimes accompanied by a crusty buildup around the hole.
The area may feel warm or hot to the touch, and in severe cases, a painful, swollen lump or abscess can form. Red streaks may extend outward if the infection spreads, and the ear may take on a shiny or stretched appearance due to swelling.
Causes of Infected Ear Piercings
An ear piercing can become infected when bacteria, fungi, or other irritants enter the wound. Below are the most common causes of infection:
1. Poor Piercing Hygiene & Unsterile Equipment
Using non-sterile needles or piercing guns can introduce bacteria at the time of piercing.
Piercing done in an unregulated or unclean environment increases the risk of infection.
Proper sanitation with medical-grade sterilization minimizes contamination.
2. Touching the Piercing with Unwashed Hands
Hands carry many bacteria and germs that can enter the piercing site.
Frequent touching, twisting, or adjusting the jewelry can introduce bacteria and delay healing.
Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling a new or healing piercing.
3. Improper Aftercare & Cleaning Practices
Over-cleaning with harsh substances like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can irritate the skin and slow healing.
Under-cleaning allows bacteria to accumulate, increasing infection risk.
The best aftercare involves sterile saline solution or mild soap and water twice daily.
4. Allergic Reaction to Jewelry Material
Low-quality metals like nickel, brass, or copper can cause irritation and allergic reactions, mimicking infection.
Hypoallergenic materials like implant-grade titanium, surgical steel, or 14K gold reduce this risk.
Signs of an allergic reaction include itching, redness, and excessive swelling.
5. Trauma & Friction from Jewelry Movement
Sleeping on the piercing, wearing tight clothing (for cartilage piercings), or snagging the jewelry can cause micro-tears.
Repeated irritation weakens the skin, making it easier for bacteria to enter.
Choosing the appropriate jewelry size and placement helps minimize friction.
6. Swimming in Contaminated Water
Pools, lakes, and hot tubs contain bacteria like Pseudomonas, which can infect piercings, especially cartilage piercings.
Water exposure should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks after a fresh piercing.
If swimming is necessary, cover the piercing with a waterproof bandage.
7. Leaving Contaminants on the Piercing Site
Makeup, hair products, perfumes, and lotions can introduce bacteria and clog the piercing hole.
Hair can get caught in earrings, trapping bacteria and pulling on the jewelry.
Keeping the piercing area clean and free from irritants reduces infection risks.
8. Weakened Immune System & Underlying Health Conditions
Individuals with diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or a history of skin infections may experience slower healing and higher infection risk.
Poor nutrition and lack of rest can weaken the body's ability to fight infections.
9. Using a Piercing Gun Instead of a Needle
Piercing guns cause more tissue trauma and swelling, making healing more difficult.
Guns cannot be properly sterilized, increasing the chance of bacterial contamination.
Professional piercers use single-use, sterile needles to minimize infection risk.
10. Not Changing an Infected or Irritating Jewelry Piece
An earring that is too tight, loose, or made of reactive material can cause irritation and trap bacteria.
If infection signs appear and persist, switching to hypoallergenic jewelry may improve healing.
Complications of Infected Ear Piercings
If an infected ear piercing is not treated properly, it can lead to serious complications that may require medical intervention. Below are the most common complications associated with ear piercing infections.
1. Abscess Formation (Pus-Filled Lump)
An abscess is a painful, swollen lump filled with pus that forms when the infection becomes trapped under the skin.
Abscesses can cause throbbing pain, redness, and tenderness around the piercing.
An abscess may sometimes burst on its own, but medical drainage is often required.
2. Cartilage Damage & Deformity (For Cartilage Piercings)
Cartilage piercings (upper ear) are at a higher risk of severe infections due to poor blood supply in the area.
If untreated, infections can lead to cartilage necrosis (tissue death), causing permanent ear deformity or collapse.
Severe cartilage infections may require antibiotics, drainage, or even surgical intervention.
3. Spread of Infection (Cellulitis & Systemic Infection)
Cellulitis occurs when the infection spreads into deeper layers of the skin, causing widespread redness, swelling, and warmth.
Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.
If the infection enters the bloodstream, it can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate hospitalization.
4. Hypertrophic Scarring & Keloid Formation
Some infections trigger excessive scar tissue growth, leading to hypertrophic scars or keloids.
Keloids are raised, thick, discolored scars that grow beyond the original piercing site.
People with a genetic predisposition, particularly those with darker skin tones, are more prone to keloid formation.
5. Allergic Reactions & Chronic Irritation
Persistent irritation or infection can be caused by an allergic reaction to low-quality jewelry (nickel, brass, or copper).
Symptoms mimic infection, including itching, swelling, and redness that doesn’t improve with antibiotics.
Switching to hypoallergenic materials like titanium, surgical steel, or 14K gold can prevent complications.
6. Piercing Hole Closure & Skin Tearing
Severe infections can cause swelling around the hole, making it difficult for the jewelry to stay in place.
If the infection worsens, the skin may close over the earring, trapping the infection inside and requiring medical removal.
In cases of excessive swelling or accidental trauma, the piercing hole may stretch, tear, or split, leading to permanent scarring.
7. Bloodborne Infections (Rare but Serious)
If unsterile piercing equipment is used, there is a small risk of transmitting bloodborne infections like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV.
Always ensure piercings are done by a licensed professional using sterile, single-use needles.
How to Prevent a Pierced Ear Infection
Proper aftercare and hygiene are essential to preventing infections after an ear piercing. Follow these practices to reduce the risk of infection and ensure a smooth healing process.
1. Choose a Professional Piercer & Sterile Equipment
Get your piercing done by a licensed professional who follows strict hygiene protocols.
Ensure the piercer uses a sterile, single-use needle instead of a piercing gun, which can cause trauma and increase infection risk.
The piercer should wear gloves and clean the ear with an antiseptic solution before piercing.
2. Select High-Quality, Hypoallergenic Jewelry
Use implant-grade titanium, surgical steel, niobium, or 14K gold to minimize allergic reactions and irritation.
Avoid nickel, brass, or cheap metals, which can cause allergic reactions and inflammation.
Ensure the jewelry is appropriately sized to avoid excessive movement or pressure on the piercing.
3. Keep Hands Clean & Avoid Touching the Piercing
Always wash hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching the piercing.
Avoid twisting, rotating, or playing with the jewelry, as this can introduce bacteria and delay healing.
If the jewelry feels tight or uncomfortable, visit a professional piercer rather than adjusting it yourself.
4. Clean the Piercing with Saline Solution Twice Daily
Use a sterile saline solution (available at pharmacies) or make your own by mixing ¼ teaspoon of non-iodized salt with 1 cup of warm distilled water.
Dip a clean cotton pad or gauze in the saline solution and gently press it on the piercing for 5-10 minutes.
Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh antiseptics, as they can dry out the skin and delay healing.
5. Avoid Submerging the Piercing in Water
Keep the piercing dry and avoid swimming in pools, lakes, or hot tubs for at least 4–6 weeks.
Bacteria in water can enter the piercing and increase the risk of infection.
Let clean water run over the piercing if showering, but avoid excessive scrubbing.
6. Keep Hair, Makeup, and Other Irritants Away
Tie back long hair to prevent strands from getting caught in the jewelry.
Avoid applying lotions, perfumes, makeup, or hair products near the piercing, as they can introduce bacteria and clog the piercing hole.
Use a clean pillowcase and avoid resting the pierced ear on dirty surfaces.
7. Sleep on the Opposite Side & Avoid Pressure
Sleep on the opposite side of the piercing to prevent irritation and swelling.
Use a clean, soft pillowcase, and consider a travel pillow or donut-shaped pillow to keep pressure off the piercing.
Avoid wearing headphones, tight hats, or helmets that put pressure on the ear.
8. Monitor for Signs of Infection & Take Early Action
Watch for redness, swelling, pain, or unusual discharge.
If mild irritation occurs, clean with saline solution and avoid touching the piercing.
If symptoms worsen or last more than 5-7 days, seek medical advice to prevent complications.
9. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle for Faster Healing
Eat a nutrient-rich diet with vitamins A, C, and zinc to support wound healing.
Stay hydrated and get enough rest to allow your immune system to function properly.
Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can slow down the healing process.
Professional Ear Piercing at Xtremities Tattoo & Piercing Studio – Safe, Hygienic, and Expertly Done
At Xtremities Tattoo & Piercing Studio, we offer professional ear piercing services to minimize infection risks and ensure safe healing. As Mississauga’s longest-running tattoo and piercing studio, our expert piercers—personally trained by our award-winning owner, Steven—use sterile, single-use needles and surgical steel jewelry for maximum safety.
We follow strict hygiene protocols and provide expert aftercare advice to help you heal properly. Open 7 days a week, we make safe, high-quality piercing accessible for everyone. Visit us at 37 Dundas St W, Mississauga, ON, or call (905) 897-3503 for your next piercing!
FAQs
What is the fastest way to heal an infected ear piercing?
The fastest way to heal an infected ear piercing is to clean it twice daily with sterile saline solution, apply warm compresses, and avoid touching or twisting the jewelry. If symptoms worsen, seek medical attention for antibiotics.
Will an infected ear piercing heal on its own?
A mild infection may heal on its own with proper cleaning and care, but persistent or worsening symptoms may require antibiotics or professional treatment to prevent complications.
Should I take my earring out if it's infected?
You should not remove the earring unless advised by a doctor, as this can trap the infection inside and lead to an abscess. Keep the jewelry in place to allow drainage while treating the infection.
Can you treat an infected piercing at home?
Yes, mild infections can be treated at home by cleaning with saline solution, applying warm compresses, and using topical antibiotic ointments. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen or last beyond 5-7 days.
Can I put Neosporin on my piercing?
Neosporin is not recommended for piercings because it can trap bacteria, block airflow, and delay healing. Use a sterile saline solution or a piercing-safe antibiotic ointment instead.
How common are ear infections from piercings?
Ear infections from piercings are pretty common, especially in cartilage piercings, due to limited blood flow. Proper aftercare, sterile piercing techniques, and high-quality jewelry significantly reduce the risk.
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