Can I Sleep With My Piercing Jewelry In? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever gotten a new piercing (or even worn body jewelry for years), chances are you’ve wondered: “Can I sleep with my piercing jewelry in?” The short answer? It depends on the type of jewelry, how new your piercing is, and your personal comfort.

Let’s break it all down so you can rest easy—literally.

? Can You Sleep With Piercing Jewelry In?

Yes, in most cases, you can sleep with your piercing jewelry in—especially if your piercing is still healing. In fact, you shouldn’t remove jewelry from a new piercing while it’s healing, or it can close up fast (sometimes overnight!).

However, the type of jewelry you’re wearing plays a big role in how comfortable—and safe—it is to sleep with it in.

⚠️ Jewelry That Might Be Risky for Sleeping

Some types of jewelry can cause irritation, pressure, or even injury if worn overnight. Here’s what to be cautious about:

• Hoops and large rings – They can get caught on hair or bedding and tug during sleep
• Dangly jewelry or long barbells – Can press into your skin or move too much at night
• Externally threaded pieces – May be rough on the inside of your piercing
• Heavy metals – Can cause unnecessary pressure or discomfort, especially on cartilage

If you're sleeping with these styles in, make sure you're sleeping on your back or using a travel pillow to protect your ears or face.

✅ Jewelry That’s Safer for Sleeping

For a more comfortable night, opt for low-pro le, secure, and skin-safe jewelry, especially if you’re a side sleeper. Here are some sleep-friendly options:

1. Flat-Back Labret Studs

   • Ideal for lip, ear, and nostril piercings
   • Lay at against the skin, reducing pressure and poking

2. Bioplast or PTFE Jewelry

   • Flexible and lightweight
   • Great for healing piercings, sensitive skin, or anyone who moves around in their sleep
   • Can bend with your body—perfect for belly rings, eyebrows, and lip piercings

3. Silicone or Soft Retainers

   • A discreet and soft alternative for healed piercings
   • Not recommended for long-term use in fresh piercings but great once healed

4. Internally Threaded Titanium Jewelry

   • Smooth on the inside, less likely to irritate the piercing channel
   • Hypoallergenic and secure

Pro Tips for Sleeping Comfortably With Jewelry In

• Sleep on your back if possible, especially after new ear piercings
• Use a donut pillow or travel pillow to avoid pressure on the piercing site
• Clean your jewelry and piercing before bed to reduce bacteria and buildup
• Choose soft bedding and avoid tight hats or accessories around the area
• Always listen to your body—if something feels off, check with your piercer

When Can I Take My Jewelry Out at Night?

Once your piercing is fully healed (this can range from 6 weeks to several months depending on the piercing), it’s safer to remove jewelry at night—but only if you’re sure it won’t close.

For some piercings, like nostrils and cartilage, the hole can shrink surprisingly fast—even after healing. If in doubt, keep it in or replace it with a soft, comfortable retainer.

Final Thoughts

Sleeping with your piercing jewelry in is often necessary—and totally ne with the right type of jewelry. Flat-backs, Bioplast, and other exible or low-pro le pieces can help you sleep soundly without irritation or stress on your piercing.

If you're not sure what to wear, start with something comfortable, hypoallergenic, and secure. And if you ever experience pain, swelling, or prolonged irritation, check in with your piercer.

Need sleep-safe jewelry? Browse our collection of at-back studs, Bioplast barbells, and Hexible retainers at BodyJewelry.com—your piercing will thank you!