Ear Piercing: How Young Is Too Young?
Ear Piercing: How Young Is Too Young?
No matter your child’s age, piercing their ears is a personal decision. Most important is ensuring it’s done in a safe and clean environment.
In various cultures, ear piercing is done as young as days to months old. For example, in Spain and Latin America, it's customary to pierce a little girl's ears moments or days after she is born. In these cultures, it's believed that it's more painful for the child if you wait until she's older.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says there's little risk at any age if the piercing is performed carefully and cared for thoroughly. But the AAP does recommend waiting until a child is old enough to take care of the piercing themselves.
“It’s a fairly safe procedure to do, as long as it’s done in a safe setting,” says Alanna Brickley, MD, a pediatrician at University of Utah Health. While the regulations can vary from county to state, Brickley does advise parents to wait until their child has received at least one tetanus vaccine.
She shares these tips with her patients:
1. Visit a reputable business
An established business that specializes in piercings generally has to adhere to state rules and regulations. This means the business should be well practiced in sterilizing their equipment and follow aftercare cleaning procedures. To be sure, check with the business to make sure their equipment is cleaned and that they are comfortable performing the procedure on a child. It’s best to avoid places of business that use piercing guns as they cannot be adequately sterilized.
2. Clean thoroughly
Aftercare is just as important to avoid infection. Start by washing your hands before touching the piercing. Clean the area twice a day for about two weeks with soap and water. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to new piercings from a squeeze tube. The earring should not be removed for four to six weeks.
3. Watch for infection and adverse reactions
Initial redness and irritation are normal following a piercing. Call your doctor if your child runs a fever or the earlobe gets very red and swollen.
Parents should also be aware of potential infections or adverse reactions to jewelry. When choosing an earring for your child, use earrings that are very small, round, and as flat as possible. Never use dangling earrings, as they could get caught and tear the earlobe.
What That Smell Means: A Parent's Guide to Child Odors
Kids can be messy, sweaty, and occasionally smelly. But some odors may point to a medical issue instead of just needing a bath. Learn what is usually harmless, what simple fixes may help at home, and when certain smells could signal infections, constipation, diabetes, or other concerns worth checking out.
When Does My Child Need to Go to the ER for a Nose Injury?
Does your child's nose seem to be a trauma magnet, constantly getting bumped, bruised, and bloodied? It is pretty typical for kids to hurt their noses as they play and explore. Learn when you should treat your child's injured nose at home and when it is time to go to the doctor.
How to Treat Your Child's Cold Sore
Cold sores are common in adults, but they can surprise parents when they appear in children. Caused by the herpes simplex virus, these painful blisters often return during illness, stress, or fatigue. Learn when to ask your doctor about prescription treatment.
Is Your Child Peeing Too Often? Frequent Urination in Young Children Explained
Your preschooler suddenly needs the bathroom every few minutes—but seems otherwise fine. While alarming for parents, this common phase is often harmless and linked to stress, routine changes, or bladder habits rather than disease. Learn the warning signs that deserve medical attention and how reassurance often becomes the best treatment.
Treating Your Child's "Barking Cough" at Home
Has your child got a bad cough that almost sounds like a seal? Hearing a child with croup is concerning to any parent. Learn about at-home treatments, how a pediatrician can help, and when it is time to go to the ER.
My Child Has Night Terrors—What Can I Do?
It can be hard to watch your child have night terrors—when they scream and cry inconsolably at night. Although night terrors usually stop eventually, learn to recognize signs that it may be something more serious, and when you should take your child to the doctor.
How to Make Your Child Comfortable While They Recover From the Flu
If your child comes down with the flu, there is, unfortunately, not much you can do except make them comfortable and wait for the virus to run its course. Learn what foods your child should eat, how much water they should drink, their medications, and when they can go back to school.
More Answers to Your Questions on Keeping Your Kid Healthy and Happy
Latest trends and issues in children's health on the Healthy Kids Zone with Dr. Cindy Gellner
