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We hear a lot about the first few weeks after getting a piercing — cleaning routines, healing tips, and what not to do. But what about the long run? What happens to your piercing after years of wearing jewelry, changing styles, or even going without?
Whether you're still wearing a nose stud from ten years ago or haven’t touched your piercings in a while, this blog explores what really happens once a piercing is fully healed.
What is a Healed Piercing?
A healed piercing means the skin has fully closed around the hole where your jewelry sits. Healing time varies depending on the location and your body. Earlobes may take six weeks, while cartilage or navel piercings can take up to a year or longer.
But even after healing, things can still change.
What Happens to Piercings Over Time
- Your Skin Still Reacts to Jewelry: Even when healed, your body continues to respond to the material inside the piercing. If the jewelry is low quality, it can still cause itchiness, darkened skin, or irritation. It's best to wear high quality metals like surgical steel, titanium, or real gold.
- Holes Can Shrink or Close: Many people are surprised to find that healed piercings can shrink or even close up if jewelry is left out. Earlobes tend to stay open longer, but cartilage or nostril piercings may close quickly. If it has been a while since you wore jewelry, check the size before trying to put it back in.
- The Shape Might Shift: Over time, piercings can change position. This might be from sleeping on it, wearing heavy jewelry, or changes in your body. If your jewelry doesn’t sit right anymore or the skin looks thin around it, consult a professional before wearing it again.
Common Issues in Long-Term Piercings
- Small bumps or scar tissue can form
- Tenderness or discharge could mean a mild infection
- Jewelry might not fit the way it used to
- Skin around the piercing may feel dry or flaky, especially if you have metal sensitivity
When to See a Professional
If you notice major changes or discomfort, visit a piercer or skin specialist. They can check for issues like embedded jewelry or scar buildup and help you decide the best next steps.
How to Take Care of Old Piercings
- Be gentle when switching jewelry
- Clean any jewelry you haven’t worn in a while
- Massage the area with a little jojoba or vitamin E oil
- Avoid sleeping on piercings, especially with large or sharp jewelry
Just because a piercing is healed doesn’t mean it’s done changing. With the right care, your piercings can stay healthy and stylish for years to come. They are part of your story — so treat them with care.
