Ear Piercing Aftercare: Why You Shouldn't Swim

When you first get your ears pierced, the holes are still open and healing. Swimming in contaminated water can introduce bacteria into the holes, which can lead to infection. Additionally, the chemicals in pool water can irritate the piercings and delay healing.

It's important to keep your piercings dry and clean while they are healing. This means avoiding swimming, as well as showering, bathing, and washing your hair. You should also avoid touching your piercings with your hands or anything else that could be contaminated.

If you must go swimming, you can wear a waterproof bandage or earplugs to keep the piercings dry. However, it's best to avoid swimming altogether until your piercings are fully healed.

The healing time for ear piercings can vary from person to person, but it typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for the holes to fully heal. Once your piercings are healed, you can enjoy swimming without worry.