Reviewed guide

Hair, Brushing and Towels With New Ear Piercings

The short answer

Long or fine hair can wrap around new jewellery, and hairbrushes, combs, towel fibers and vigorous drying are the most common snag opportunities. During the first several weeks: slow down near the ears, consider keeping long or fine hair up and away, brush carefully, and do not rub towels aggressively around earrings — and watch for loose towel threads.

Hair and towels are the everyday snag sources — slow down near the ears for the first several weeks.

For parents

The most common snag sources in real family life are not dramatic — they are hairbrushes, towels and loose strands winding around a backing.

What to do during the first several weeks

Slow down hair routines near the ears.
Consider keeping long or fine hair up and away from the jewellery.
Brush and comb carefully around the ears.
Pat or air-dry around the earrings — no aggressive towel rubbing.
Watch for loose towel threads, which can wrap tightly around a backing.
Avoid pulling clothing over the ears carelessly — hoodies and sweaters are quiet snaggers.

After the initial aftercare period

Normal hair routines can generally resume if healing is progressing normally. Sensible habits — gentle drying, awareness around the ears — stay valuable for the life of the piercing.

When a snag happens

Inspect the piercing and jewellery once, gently. See our snag-response guide for the full checklist, and contact us if there is tissue damage, increasing swelling, displacement or uncertainty.

When we want to see you

Any snag followed by worsening irritation — we will take a look and help you reset.