Why Your Pierced Ears Are Getting Itchy And Stinky All Of A Sudden And What To Do About It
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It’s vital that one always monitors just what their body wants to say – and (a novel idea) actually listen. Granted when it comes to minor ailments, they thankfully disappear by themselves, but for other more serious symptoms, you may need an intervention. Hence, the next time you feel it would be a great idea to ignore that persistently itchy piercing in your ear, well, think twice. Instead of simply being brave and suffering quietly, why not try treating it?
We get you, piercing your ear can be super fun. From rocking some fabulous single piercings with classic earrings to being a tad more adventurous with tragus piercings and looking gloriously edgy – the possibilities of layers that you could add to your look are endless. However, even if you have gotten your ears pierced a decade ago, there could be a possibility that you’ve recently noticed something, well, off. Perhaps you’ve been pestered with some itching? Or, maybe, even a foul, bothersome odor occasionally?
So… What On Earth Is Up With My Ears?
The discomfort you’ve been experiencing is due to a very natural phenomenon. It’s basically the result of your body’s oils mixing with your skin cells – then getting clogged inside your piercing. Not exactly fun stuff.
The good news, however, is that you don’t really have to put up with this for long. Not only are there simple solutions that you can practice with run-of-the-mill items available at your home, but they also can prevent the discomfort from ever occurring again. Read on to know more.
1. Treat It With Warm Water
During your daily shower, take some warm water and run it over the affected piercing. If possible, invest in a good antibacterial soap and cleanse the insides of your ear piercing to get rid of the clogged up dead epidermal cells that may have accumulated there.
2. Treat It With Salt Water
If it is a minor infection that has been troubling the insides or peripheries of your piercing, then try this amazingly simple solution. Just get your hands on some salt. Proceed to mix ¼ teaspoon of the salt with around 8 ounces of distilled water. Soak a cotton wool in the solution and then gently rub upon the affected region. Once you’re done, take some fresh paper towels and carefully pat the affected piercing dry. Paper towels are the ideal material for this endeavor as any other substance may shed some fibers that could further unnecessarily aggravate the skin surrounding your piercing.
Wear The Right Kind Of Jewelry
If you’ve had those ear piercings for more than a decade or so and they’ve suddenly turned itchy and started emanating a putrid odor, then you’re probably confused and concerned. Chances are, you’re not suffering from an infection at all. It is quite possible that your discomfort is in response to the material that makes up your earrings. You may have an undiagnosed sensitivity or allergy to certain types of metals, like nickel perhaps, which could be causing the inflammation and even discharge. Your best option is to opt for hypoallergenic or stainless steel earrings.
3. Be Careful If Your Piercing Is New
A tad bit of inflammation or redness is part of the parcel when you happen to get new piercings. This is a very natural process as the skin around your piercing is now in the process of healing. However, if you’ve noticed the spontaneous appearance of a bump or ring developing around the newly acquired piercing, this could very well be your body’s way of telling you – we’re not okay with your new addition. Usually, this could signify an infection; however, don’t be too alarmed for it is something easily rectified. Just remember to follow these three cardinal rules
- Always ensure that your hands are clean before you attempt to touch the affected area. Scratching, tugging or pulling at it every second of the day will only serve in further aggravating your condition, making things a whole lot worse.
Take into consideration the angle of your piercing. Keep in mind that it mustn’t be too loose or too tight. Any earrings you choose should fit just right. If they don’t, get a closer look at the hole of your piercing and gauge if it has been made at an odd angle. This can also cause your skin to get irritated.
Don’t try experimenting with harsh chemical treatments for your piercings. Remember that the skin around your piercing is notoriously tender, hence don’t go overboard with any cleaning. Cleansing once a day with warm water and a gentle, fragrance-free soap is good enough.
Another pro tip? Sanitize your jewelry before wearing it. Soak it in some antibacterial solution for a few minutes, then proceed to dry them with paper towels. If redness persists despite all your attempts, please consult a doctor. Best of luck!
