Welcome to the comprehensive guide on how to handle cartilage earrings, an essential read for anyone who has been pierced with a needle at a professional studio. Cartilage piercings are an expressive form of body art, but they come with a set of challenges, especially when it comes to changing the jewelry. Unlike traditional earrings, cartilage earrings, such as labrets, have unique attributes that require special attention for removal and insertion.
Understanding the Jewelry: Labrets and Gauges
Labrets are commonly used for cartilage piercings and are known for their flat backing, making them a comfortable option that's less prone to snagging. Available in materials like gold and stainless steel, they cater to various styles and preferences. The gauge of an earring refers to its thickness. A typical gauge size for cartilage earrings ranges from the thicker 16 gauge to the thinner 19 gauge. It's crucial to know the size of your piercing to select the appropriate jewelry.
Removing the Earring: A Step-by-Step Process
Removing a cartilage earring involves a different technique than what's used for standard earrings. Instead of pulling, you'll want to gently push the earring forward and unscrew the front. This method ensures that you don't apply unnecessary pressure on the piercing that can cause discomfort or damage.
Here's how to safely remove your cartilage earring:
- Clean your hands thoroughly to prevent any infection.
- Position yourself in a well-lit area with a mirror.
- Gently push the earring forward to expose more of the back.
- Hold the front piece steady and unscrew the backing by twisting it counterclockwise.
- Once loose, carefully remove the backing and slide out the earring.
Inserting the Earring: Patience and Precision
Inserting a new earring can be tricky, especially with the small components of labret-style jewelry. If you have longer nails or find the task daunting, using a regular earring to guide the post through the piercing can be helpful.
Follow these steps to insert a new cartilage earring:
- Prepare the new earring by cleaning it with an appropriate solution like H2Ocean.
- Align the earring with the piercing hole.
- Use the post of a regular earring to guide the new earring through if necessary.
- Once the earring is through, attach the backing by screwing it on clockwise until secure.
Aftercare Tips
After changing your earring, it's advisable to monitor the piercing for any signs of irritation or infection. Regular cleaning with a saline solution can prevent complications and ensure a healthy healing process.
In Summary
Changing cartilage earrings doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right knowledge and tools, you can confidently remove and insert earrings while keeping your piercings healthy and stylish.
For those who prefer a visual guide, I recommend watching this instructional video which covers the removal and insertion of cartilage earrings in detail. It offers practical tips and demonstrates the process clearly:
