My Piercing Closed: Can It Be Reopened or Re-Pierced?

If the Piercing Has Just Closed (Hours–1 Day)

• Do not force jewelry through — this can cause tearing or infection

• Visit a professional piercer as soon as possible

• A piercer may be able to safely taper it open if the tissue hasn’t fully sealed

If the Piercing Has Been Closed for Several Days or Longer

• Assume it is fully closed

• Do not try to reopen it at home

• Let the area heal completely

• If you want it again, get it re-pierced by a professional

• Leave it alone and don’t apply pressure

• Clean gently with saline

• See a professional piercer or healthcare provider if discomfort persists

Important Things NOT to Do

• Don’t push earrings or jewelry through skin

• Don’t use needles or sharp objects

• Don’t apply harsh chemicals (alcohol, peroxide)

Best Practice

A closed piercing is treated like new skin. Re-piercing is the safest option if you want it back, especially for cartilage, oral, or intimate piercings.

If you want, tell me what type of piercing (earlobe, cartilage, lip, nose, etc.) and how long it’s been closed, and I can give more specific guidance.