Ear piercing in summer? Of course you can!

The summer holidays are a popular time for children to get their first ears pierced. To ensure this event is a memorable one for the whole family and nothing goes wrong, the German Jewelers' Association (BVJ) and the International Association of Ear Piercing Specialists (EMP) have a few tips.

Left: The first earrings are a highlight for many children—and especially popular in summer. © Freepik

Summer event ear piercing

Earrings – and therefore the appropriate ear piercings to wear them – are incredibly popular, and many people now don't just wear one pair of earrings, but over time, they complement their look with multiple ear piercings and different styles.

Especially if it's the very first time—for many children, this is the case at elementary school age—there are a few things to consider. The German Jewelers' Association (BVJ) and the International Association of Ear Piercing Specialists (EMP) have provided a few tips and recommendations for this occasion.

In fact, summer is a popular time for new ear piercings among children and young people – perhaps as a gift for a good report card or for the start of the next school year. Experts say summer is the perfect time. Joachim Dünkelmann, Managing Director of the BVJ, explains:

"The summer months are traditionally among the most popular times for ear piercing. The holidays not only allow for sufficient healing time, but also a relaxed atmosphere—without school or sports commitments."

Esther Lenssen, press spokesperson for the EMP, also sees summer as the perfect time to get your ears pierced: 

"Specialty stores, doctor's offices, and pharmacies report very positive experiences with summer appointments: Parents are informed, children are prepared, and follow-up care can be easily integrated into everyday life."

Ear piercing: What should you keep in mind?

Ear piercing should always be performed by a qualified and trained professional. This includes doctor's offices and jewelry stores. Ear piercing is usually performed using an ear piercing system that shoots the sterile earring stud through the earlobe, where the appropriate area is first marked and professionally disinfected. During the healing process, the earring studs are not removed, but the area is treated with other healing products. This aftercare process is very important and should not be neglected. 

Since summer is also swimming season, the legitimate question arises as to whether swimming is actually permitted with freshly pierced ears. The BVJ and EMP say yes – with reservations. Swimming immediately after having your ears pierced is not a good idea – the next visit to the swimming pool should be at least a few days after the ear piercing appointment.

The earlobe can then be further protected with waterproof bandages while swimming, for example. The moisturizing cosmetic, which should be applied for at least two to three weeks after ear piercing, can also be used to protect against irritation caused by chlorinated water and similar conditions. 

Anyone who finds bandages uncomfortable while swimming should rinse their ears with clean water after swimming and then apply a care product—ideally in the form of a spray. These hygiene products are available from ear piercing providers and are often included as part of the service.

All clear? All clear! Then nothing stands in the way of summer fun and the joy of new earrings.