Jewellery for New and Healing Piercings
Implant-grade titanium is the safest material for a new piercing. Gold plated jewellery is generally best introduced only after the piercing has fully healed, because plating can wear inside the channel. Healing takes roughly six to eight weeks for lobes, longer for cartilage.
Rough healing timelines
| Piercing | Typical healing | Safe starting material |
|---|---|---|
| Earlobe | 6–8 weeks | Implant-grade titanium |
| Helix or cartilage | 4–12 months | Implant-grade titanium |
| Second lobe | 6–10 weeks | Implant-grade titanium |
These are general ranges. Healing varies by person, and your piercer is the right source for your specific situation.
Irritation or infection?
Mild redness and tenderness in the early weeks is normal irritation. Signs that warrant seeing a doctor rather than changing earrings include spreading redness, significant swelling, heat, pus, or fever. This article is general information and does not substitute for medical advice — if you are unsure, see a professional.
After it has healed
Once fully healed, nickel-free gold plated pieces over surgical steel are comfortable for daily wear. Lightweight, low-profile styles put least stress on the channel — huggies and flat studs are the easiest to live in.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear gold plated earrings in a new piercing?
Better to wait until healed. Implant-grade titanium is the recommended starting material; plating can wear inside an unhealed channel.
What earrings can I sleep in?
Lightweight, low-profile, non-reactive pieces — huggies or flat-back studs in nickel-free surgical steel. Avoid heavy drops and exposed hooks.
How do I know if it is infected?
Spreading redness, swelling, heat, pus or fever suggest infection and need medical attention. Mild early tenderness is usually normal irritation.