Second Hole Piercing FAQ - By APP Certified Piercers in NYC

2nd Hole Piercings with asymmetrical dangle earrings. One earring features silver chains with a mix of smooth and faceted textures, while the other has delicate gold chains with bezel-set clear gemstones.
A second hole piercing refers to an additional earlobe piercing placed just beyond the first lobe piercing.
  • This piercing is commonly done on both ears but can also be worn as a single statement piercing.
  • It allows for layered jewelry styles and can complement other lobe or cartilage piercings.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Clementine Piercing offers ear lobe piercings in NYC. Johnny Pearce, one of the world's top rated and most trusted piercing professionals, holds tenure at Clementine Piercing in NYC—making it an excellent option for trusted piercing services.

Look for professional, APP-certified piercing studios with:

  • Experienced piercers familiar with technical piercings
  • Strict hygiene and sterilization protocols
  • Positive client reviews and portfolio examples

Please feel free to use trusted resources like the “Find a Professional Piercer” search function on the Association of Professional Piercers website.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

A second ear hole piercing is another term for a second lobe piercing.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Companies like Claire’s, Studs, Rowan, and Piercing Pagoda may offer 2nd hole piercings, but these places are NEVER advised or considered a safe choice for piercing. Professional studios have real piercers who are properly trained for YEARS using aseptic technique and a sterile field, and are always recommended over boutique store employees who only train for a few weeks and/or use piercing guns. Beware of companies that claim their piercers are all RNs.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

A second hole piercing is relatively low on the pain scale since it is done on soft tissue. Often regarded as very similar to traditional ear lobe piercings.
  • Most people describe it as a quick pinch, followed by mild soreness for a few hours or days.
  • Pain level: 1-3 out of 10 (varies based on individual pain tolerance).
  • Healing discomfort: Minimal, though slight swelling or sensitivity may occur.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Pain perception varies, but for most people, the discomfort is brief and tolerable.
  • The piercing itself takes just a second.
  • Any soreness lasts a few days but usually resolves quickly with proper care.
  • If swelling or tenderness persists beyond a week, consult a professional piercer.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Healing for a second hole piercing typically takes 8-12+ weeks, but individual healing time may vary.
  • Factors affecting healing time:
    • Consistent aftercare (using good hygiene, sterile saline solution, and avoiding irritation).
    • Jewelry quality (implant-grade titanium, niobium, or 14k+ solid gold reduces irritation).
    • Lifestyle habits (avoiding sleeping on the piercing, excessive movement, or snagging jewelry).

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Aftercare for a second hole piercing:
  • Avoid any touching, twisting, or playing with the piercing site or jewelry.
  • Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution or wound wash spray as needed.
  • Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

The best earrings for a second hole piercing should be lightweight, hypoallergenic, and appropriately fitted.
  • Recommended materials: Implant-grade titanium, niobium, or 14k+ solid gold.
  • Best styles for healing:
    • Flat-back labret studs (comfortable and flush with the ear).
    • Bezel-set or prong-set studs (minimizes snagging).
    • Small, seamless hoops (only after full healing).

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

  • Coordinated sets for a balanced look.
  • Mismatched studs and hoops for a trendy, curated ear aesthetic.
  • Layered minimal studs for an understated look.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Yes, hoop earrings can be worn in a second hole piercing, but only after full healing.
  • Best hoop styles for healed piercings:
    • Small, seamless hoops or clickers (comfortable and stylish).
    • Thin, lightweight hoops (reduces pressure on the piercing).
    • Titanium or solid gold hoops (hypoallergenic and safe for long-term wear).

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

  • Everyone has different ears and anatomy; the best size depends entirely on the wearer.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Yes, diamond studs can be worn in a second hole piercing once fully healed.
  • Best options:
    • Flat-back diamond studs (for a sleek, comfortable fit).
    • Bezel-set diamonds (prevents snags and irritation).
    • 14k+ solid gold or platinum settings (avoids allergic reactions).

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

The cost of a 2nd hole piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g. solid gold, implant-grade titanium) as well as piercer expertise.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Yes, you can get a second and third hole piercing in the same session.
  • Pros:
    • Heals at the same time, reducing the need for multiple healing periods.
    • Allows for aesthetic symmetry when curating ear piercings.
  • Cons:
    • Slightly more swelling and tenderness due to multiple piercings healing at once.
    • Requires extra care to avoid irritation.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

It depends on the condition of the previous piercing site:
  • If the old hole is fully closed, it can often be re-pierced in the same spot.
  • If the previous hole is still open but shrunken, ask your piercer about a recovery service to avoid re-piercing.
  • If tremendous scar tissue is present, a piercer may recommend a new placement next to the original site.
  • If the previous piercing rejected or migrated, consult a piercer before re-piercing.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

A professional piercer will assess your lobe anatomy before piercing.
  • Factors considered:
    • Spacing from the first hole (to prevent jewelry crowding).
    • Lobe thickness (for proper support).
    • Distance from the edge of the lobe (to avoid improper placement).
  • If lobes are too small, adjustments may be necessary.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Close-up of an ear featuring a silver dagger-shaped earring in the lobe, alongside a small cluster of three silver beads. The combination adds a bold and edgy aesthetic to the piercing.