Flatback Earring FAQ
Flatback earrings, also commonly called a flat-back labret stud, are jewelry pieces designed with a smooth, flat backing, which help prevent shifting or migration. These are known to be more comfortable than traditional butterfly back earrings, as they don’t poke into the neck of the wearer when sleeping. Flatback earrings come in custom sizes allowing the user to wear them closer to their ear, which also catches less on hair and clothes, reducing irritation and making them more comfortable for long-term wear.
They can be! Some flatback earrings require screwing on, while others use a press-fit (threadless) mechanism. If you prefer a threaded system (screw-on) always choose internally threaded jewelry (the flatback stem is smooth and the threading is located on the ball or the gem) and avoid externally threaded jewelry (the threading is located on the stem).
No, not all earrings are compatible with flat backs. However, We can help you convert you old heirloom diamonds from butterfly backs to comfortable flat-back earrings.
A flatback piercing refers to any piercing location that uses a flat-backed labret stud. Commonly preferred for almost all ear piercings, most lip and facial piercings and various other body piercings.
A flatback labret post is the jewelry style of choice used in many piercings, recognizable by its flat disc on one end and its decorative adornment on the other.
Sterling silver is not recommended for piercings as it can easily tarnish and cause irritation or infection.
Implant-Certified Titanium and Solid Gold are the best options due to their hypoallergenic properties and biocompatability.
Hold the flat back in place behind the ear and insert the stem of the post through the piercing hole. Use surgical lubricant for ease of install where needed (alt: instal them in the shower). If it is threaded, twist the front piece clockwise. Righty-tighty, Lefty-loosey.
The system and mechanism behind flatback earrings can be entirely different without any noticeable physical difference. Some flatback earrings require screwing on, while others use a press-fit (threadless) mechanism. If you prefer a threaded system (screw-on) always choose internally threaded jewelry (the flatback stem is smooth and the threading is located on the ball or the gem) and avoid externally threaded jewelry (the threading is located on the stem).
Gently grip the flat back and unscrew (twist to the left) or brace the flatback and pull the front piece in the opposite direction until it disengages, depending on whether the earring is threaded or press-fit.
For threaded jewelry, twist counterclockwise. For press-fit jewelry, gently pull apart while twisting slightly.
Determine if your flatback earring is either threaded or treadless. For threaded jewelry, hold the back securely and twist counterclockwise. For press-fit (treadless) jewelry, hold the back securely and gently pull apart. If difficult, twist slightly while pulling. A professional may be needed for difficult removals.
Flatback piercings are designed to stay in place without twisting, making them more comfortable and reducing irritation.
Yes, the design is superior to any other earring backing style. Noted for stable healing with minimal irritation. Please be sure to see your local piercer for a follow up appointment to downsize from your original flatback earring length to one that is optimally fit for your anatomy and long-term wear.
Try using nitrile gloves for grip or visit a trusted piercer near you for assistance. Clementine Piercing in NYC offers urgent assistance appointments at no cost. 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 genital 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.
Hold the back in place and twist the front counterclockwise. If stuck, try using nitrile gloves for better grip.
Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution/wound wash spray as needed. Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
Flatback earrings can be found at professional piercing studios and online piercing retailers. Avoid traditional jewelry stores that offer an ear piercing component as they are often under-experienced with sub-par body jewelry standards. Since their jewelry manufacturing focuses mainly on external jewelry (rings, bracelets, etc), they have a very different standard when compared to what real high-end body jewelry companies offer, since body jewelry must be made to be worn inside the body and support healing an open wound.
Implant-Certified Titanium, Solid Gold or Niobium are the best options for sensitive ears.