Can You Swim After Ear Piercing?

We’ve all been there, especially on a hot summer’s day 🌞. The temptation to take a refreshing dip in the pool or the beach is strong. But the question remains, is it safe and healthy to swim after getting your ears pierced? Let’s find out!

Typically, all body piercings, including ear piercings, need to be sterilized and kept dry to prevent infection. A piercing is essentially a small wound on the body, and it requires proper care to avoid complications. Neglecting the aftercare routine for your new piercing can turn that small wound into a bigger problem, causing pain and discomfort.

Ideally, it’s best to wait as long as possible before swimming with a new piercing. However, if you can’t resist the urge to take a dip, there are precautions you can take to protect your piercing.

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How to Cover Your Piercings While Swimming

Experts recommend avoiding pools, hot tubs, lakes, and even the ocean until your piercing is fully healed. But if swimming is essential for you, here are some ways to cover your piercings:

Waterproof Bandage: You can cover your piercing with a waterproof bandage. However, not all piercings can be easily covered, such as tongue or lip piercings. Additionally, depending on the location of your piercing, it might be challenging to cover it effectively.
Swimming Cap: Use a swimming cap designed to protect the ears. Tie your hair up to keep it away from the piercing, and then pull the swimming cap over the necessary areas. This helps to minimize water contact with your piercing.
Neoprene Ear Band: A neoprene ear band, similar to a headband, can be used to reinforce the swimming cap for added protection. It is waterproof and can provide an extra layer of defense for your ear piercings.

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How to Care for Your Piercing After Swimming

Swimming in various water bodies exposes your piercing to potentially harmful bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. To minimize this risk:

Shower before and after swimming in a pool or the ocean.
Use shower gel or liquid soap to thoroughly clean the area after swimming.
Ensure that your body is completely dry before using cotton or piercing aftercare cleansing swabs.

It’s crucial to maintain the same aftercare routine, whether you’ve been swimming or not, until your piercing is fully healed. Remember to clean your hands thoroughly before disinfecting the piercing. Be cautious not to over-clean, as excessive cleaning can irritate the skin and lead to further complications.

To reduce the risk of infection, it’s advisable to wait at least a week after getting a new piercing before swimming. Treat your new piercing like a fresh cut on your finger or hand. If you were to put it in water immediately, it might continue bleeding, swell, and even develop pus. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further assistance.

In summary, it’s generally best to avoid swimming for a few weeks after getting your ears pierced. However, if swimming cannot be avoided, take the necessary precautions to protect your piercing and follow a strict aftercare routine. After all, they say that beauty comes to those who wait.