Why You Should Avoid Sleeping on Your Side After an Ear Piercing

Learn why sleeping on your side after an ear piercing can cause pain and infection, and discover tips for safe healing.

189 views

Sleeping on your side after an ear piercing can cause two main issues: pressure on the piercing site leading to discomfort and potential misshaping of the piercing hole, and increased risk of infection from rubbing against bedding. It's best to avoid sleeping on the pierced side until fully healed, which typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for earlobes and longer for cartilage piercings. Using a travel pillow can help by allowing you to rest your head without direct pressure on the pierced area.

FAQs & Answers

  1. How long should I avoid sleeping on the pierced side after getting an ear piercing? You should avoid sleeping on the pierced side until the piercing is fully healed, which typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for earlobe piercings and longer for cartilage piercings.
  2. What are the risks of sleeping on the pierced side too soon? Sleeping on the pierced side too soon can cause discomfort, misshape the piercing hole, and increase the risk of infection due to pressure and friction against bedding.
  3. What can I use to avoid pressure on my ear piercing while sleeping? Using a travel pillow or a neck pillow can help you rest your head without putting direct pressure on the pierced area during sleep.