• Wash hands before touching jewelry

• Clean 1–2× daily with sterile saline (skip alcohol/peroxide)

• Size up gradually: one step at a time, every 4–6 weeks (minimum)

• Sleep on a clean pillowcase; avoid pressure and snags

• During “rest weeks,” gently massage lobes with a drop of jojoba/coconut oil

• If you feel sharp pain, tearing, or see a raised ring (possible blowout), downsize and rest

• Signs of infection (heat, spreading redness, pus, fever) → see a professional/doctor

This article offers general aftercare guidance and is not medical advice. If symptoms worsen or you’re unsure, consult a licensed piercer or healthcare provider.

1.Before You Stretch: Set a Solid Foundation

• Only stretch fully healed piercings. New piercings need months, not weeks. Patience prevents tears and scar tissue.

• Pick the right structure and materials. For early stretches, choose single-flare pieces with a smooth finish in glass, implant-grade titanium, or high-quality steel. Avoid double-flare immediately after sizing up.

• Slow = safe. A common, safe pace is one gauge size every 4–6 weeks, and only when there’s zero soreness or tightness.

Recommended Starter Essentials
• Tools & supplies: Ear Stretching Kit
• Stable everyday tunnels: Ear Tunnel Collection

2.Daily Cleaning: Simple & Effective

1. Hands first. Wash thoroughly.

2. Sterile saline 1–2×/day (spray or compress with non-woven gauze for ~5 minutes). Don’t over-clean.
   Finish by air-drying or dabbing dry with sterile gauze. Trapped moisture can irritate skin.

Avoid: alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, povidone-iodine, harsh antibacterial soaps,  and ointments (occlusive).

Helpful Add-Ons
• Swaps & small parts: Body Piercing Tools & Accessories
• Backup tunnels for rotation: Ear Plugs Collection

3.Timeline & Technique: Steady Wins

• Only size up when fully calm. No soreness, no pressure, no tightness for several weeks.

• Use a tiny bit of lubricant (a drop of jojoba/coconut oil) so single-flare jewelry glides in—never force.

• Tape method (advanced). Some experienced stretchers use inert PTFE tape to add very small increments over 7–30 days. New to stretching? Get guidance from a pro.

Smooth “Feel” Picks for Fresh Size-Ups
• Polished surfaces and rounded edges help minimize friction in the first 1–2 weeks:
– Tungsten Steel Zircon Black-Purple Tunnel (2pcs)
– Tungsten Steel Zircon Black-Green Tunnel (2pcs)
– Tungsten Steel Zircon Black-Red Tunnel (2pcs)

Shopping tip: In the first 1–2 weeks after a size-up, wear smoother, highly polished designs. Once you’re stable, switch into bolder, textured styles.

4.Lifestyle Tweaks That Reduce Risk

• Pressure control: Alternate sleep sides; a travel/U-shaped pillow helps keep pressure off.

• Water: After a size-up, avoid pools, hot tubs, lakes, and the ocean for a bit; after showers, dry completely.

• Snag control: Tie hair back; slow down with masks/hoodies; change pillowcases and towels frequently.

Always Keep a “Downsize” Option Ready
• Keep ±1 size on hand so you can immediately downsize if irritation starts:
– Moissanite Ear Tunnel Collection

5.Massage & “Rest Weeks”: Give Skin Time

During each size’s 4–6-week stabilization, massage lobes 1–2×/week with a drop of oil for 1–2 minutes to support circulation and elasticity. Wipe away residue afterward.

Low-Profile, All-Day Wear
• Rounded, polished tunnels for long wear during stabilization:
– S925 Stars Shining /Moissanite (2pcs)
– Black Tungsten/Zircon (2pcs)

6.Quick Fixes: Irritation, Odor & Blowouts

• Minor irritation (short-term warmth/tenderness after sizing up): saline compress 1–2×/day, no twisting/pulling, add a few rest days.

• Odor (“ear cheese”): Clean jewelry and lobes in the shower, keep the saline routine, and dry thoroughly.

• Blowout (raised ring at the back): Downsize immediately, keep gentle care, rest for several weeks, and get a pro evaluation if needed.

7.Infection vs. Allergy: Spot the Difference

• Possible infection: increasing pain, heat, swelling, spreading redness, pus (white/green/yellow), fever/chills → seek medical care. Do not remove jewelry yourself (risk of sealing in drainage).

• Allergy/irritant reaction: itch and rash, often due to nickel sensitivity or harsh cleaners. Switch to implant-grade materials and saline-only care; consult a pro if it persists.

• Cartilage caution: Upper-ear cartilage infections can be serious—get prompt treatment.

One-Stop Shopping List

• Tools & supplies: Ear Stretching Kit

• Stabilization & backups: Necro Icons Ear Tunnel Collection

• Smooth, daily-wear picks:Ear Tunnel Collection