HEALTH

My mom said I could get my ears pierced when I turn 12, and my birthday is right around the corner. I’m really excited, but I’m starting to get nervous, too. Does getting your ears pierced hurt?

Most girls report that getting your ear lobe pierced is pretty painless. You’ll feel a sharp pinch for a few seconds, and your ears might be throbbing for a few hours after the fact, but it should not hurt. And so long as you take care of your new piercings, turning your posts and cleaning the holes daily with hydrogen peroxide, you should be able to ward off infection.

While some say that ear piercing guns are quicker and more painless than a sterile needle, there has been a lot of controversy lately over the safety of ear piercing guns because it’s impossible to sterilize them, and they also seem to have a high chance for mishaps. We recommend you avoid mall kiosks and opt for a professional piercing shop or reputable jewelry store, and if at all possible, have your piercing done with a sterilized, one-time-use needle rather than a piercing gun.  Pick hypoallergenic studs to minimize risk of your body reacting to the metal earring, and listen to and follow the care directions you’re given!

We want to hear from you! Send us your weirdest body questions here (seriously, we'll answer anything!) and it just might get featured.

by Brittany Taylor | 12/23/2018