Ear Lobe Piercing FAQ Info by APP Certified Piercers in NYC

A gold starburst-shaped stud earring with baguette-cut clear gemstones radiating from a central stone. The design mimics a shimmering burst of light.

Yes, it is possible to get multiple lobe piercings at once, and many people opt for two or three in a single session. However:

  • Healing multiple piercings at the same time may cause increased swelling and discomfort.
  • The body’s ability to heal is divided, potentially prolonging the overall healing time.
  • A professional piercer can assess your anatomy to determine the best placement and approach for your piercings.

If you plan to get three lobe piercings at once, ensure you follow strict aftercare to minimize irritation.

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

Lobe piercings typically take8-12+ weeks to heal, but some individuals may experience longer healing times depending on:

  • Aftercare routine (embracing natural healing and gentle rinse with water in the shower, as well as using sterile saline and avoiding unnecessary contact).
  • Jewelry material (implant-grade titanium, niobium, or gold helps minimize irritation).
  • Personal healing factors (diet, lifestyle, and immune response).

While lobe piercings heal faster than cartilage piercings, they still require proper care to prevent irritation.

It’s best to wait until the piercing is fully healed, typically around 8-12 weeks, before switching to a hoop.

  • Hoops move more than studs, which can cause friction and delay healing.
  • A captive bead ring or seamless ring is recommended if switching to a hoop.
  • If irritation occurs after switching, consider returning to a stud and allowing more healing time.

A lobe piercing should be performed perpendicular to the tissue to allow for proper jewelry fit and healing.

  • A slight forward tilt may be used for some styles of jewelry, but incorrect angles can lead to discomfort, improper jewelry positioning, and prolonged healing.
  • Professional piercers will assess ear anatomy and ensure the best placement.

Avoid sleeping directly on a new lobe piercing until it is fully healed.

  • Sleeping on the piercing can cause irritation and prolonged healing.
  • A travel pillow or donut-shaped pillow can help prevent pressure on the piercing.

Some initial tenderness is normal and typically subsides within a few days to a week.

  • Mild discomfort or sensitivity may persist for a few weeks.
  • Prolonged pain may indicate irritation, improper jewelry, or an allergic reaction.
  • If pain worsens, consult a professional piercer to check for issues like jewelry fit or your medical provider to inquire about infection.
    

  • Professional piercers can accommodate different preferences based on anatomy and jewelry style.
  • Standard lobe piercings are typically done at 18g (1.0mm) or 16g (1.2mm) or 14g (1.6mm).
    • 

  • Many ear lobes can be pierced as large at as 2g, while some start even larger. Clients who start their earlobe piercing at a larger size will avoid much of the prolonged time period that’s associated with stretching the earlobe in a health manner.

The cost of a lobe 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.

Lobe piercings are among the least painful piercings, often described as a quick pinch or pressure.

  • Pain levels are typically 1-3 out of 10.
  • Healing discomfort is minimal and easy compared to cartilage piercings.


  • Avoid any touching, twisting, or playing with the piercing site or jewelry.
    • 

  • Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution/wound wash spray as needed.
  • Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

    • The number of lobe piercings depends on your ear anatomy.

    • Some people can fit up to four or more per lobe, while others may have limited space.
    • A professional piercer can assess your anatomy and recommend placement for multiple piercings.
      • 

    • Keep in mind your piercer may limit how many piercings they person in a session per client for optimized healing.

    Possible signs of infection include:

    • Increased redness, over-swelling, and noticeable warmth around the piercing.
    • Yellow or green discharge (clear or white discharge is normal during healing).
    • Persistent or growing levels of pain or throbbing beyond normal healing.
      • 

    • Especially if any of the above are occurring in areas that were not pierced.

    If you suspect an infection:

    • Avoid removing the jewelry, as this can trap bacteria inside.
    • Seek assistance from your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen.

    Downsizing to a shorter post is typically recommended after initial swelling subsides, around 4-6 weeks.

    • This helps prevent excess movement, which can contribute to irritation and bumps.
    • A professional piercer will assist with downsizing to ensure the correct fit.

    It’s best to wait at least 6-8 weeks before changing jewelry.

    • Changing jewelry too early can cause irritation and prolong healing.
    • If unsure, visit a professional piercer for guidance.

    Wait until the piercing is fully healed (around 8-12+ weeks) before changing jewelry.

    • Healing may take longer for some individuals based on lifestyle and aftercare.
    • Consult a professional piercer if you're unsure about healing progress.

    Several factors can prolong healing:

    • Low-quality jewelry (nickel-containing metals can cause irritation).
    • Improper aftercare (using harsh chemicals or touching the piercing too much).
    • Irritation from sleeping, masks, or hair products.
    • Underlying health conditions that affect healing.

    If healing issues persist, consult a professional piercer for assessment.

      If you think you might be experiencing an infection, please contact your healthcare provider for antibiotics.

    Early intervention can help resolve minor issues before they become serious.

    A gold hoop earring with a dangling lightning bolt charm encrusted with small, clear gemstones. The charm’s sharp angles and sparkle create an electrifying look.