If you plan on going for a swim after getting a new ear piercing, you will need to cover it up.It is recommended that you wait at least 24 hours after getting a piercing before you go swimming.If you swim before your new piercing heals, you will protect yourself from the germs and harmfulbacteria found in both swimming pools and natural bodies of water.A water-resistant bandage can be purchased to cover your piercing.If you are worried about a bandage falling off, wear a swimming cap or waterproof band.Make sure your ear piercing is completely covered so water does not get inside.
Step 1: Purchase bandages that are waterproof.
Most drug stores and online have bandages.If you want to cover your piercing, this is the best option.You will need to make sure that it is completely waterproof so that the water does not touch your piercing.There is information on the packaging that shows the bandages are water resistant.If you want to cover your entire ear piercing, purchase one that is the right size.
Step 2: Rub your piercing dry.
The best time to apply bandages is when the skin is clean and dry.Mild soap and water can be used to clean piercings.You can wash the piercing off with a small amount of soap.Remove the paper towel and pat it dry.You should wait at least 24 hours after getting an ear piercing.Don't remove your earring while cleaning.Until the area is healed, new piercings should not be removed.If you want to clean an ear piercing, never use harsh soaps or antibacterial products.
Step 3: The bandage should be applied over your piercing.
It is time to apply the bandage after your piercing is cleaned and dry.To get it to your skin, follow the directions on the packaging.You have to place the absorbent pad over your earring and piercing because most bandages are individually wrapped.Remove the covering and apply it to the skin.The bandage should not be too tight.It can cause pain and bleeding if you squeeze it.
Step 4: Press firmly to ensure a snug fit.
Press the sides of the bandage firmly.You want to make sure it doesn't get wet.The front and back of the piercing need to be covered with a bandage.If you need two bandages to cover the piercing, you're free to do so.Press firmly to seal the piercing.
Step 5: The bandage should be tested under tap water.
You will need to test the bandage before you go in the water to make sure it is waterproof.It's possible to test it in the shower or sink.You can see if your piercing gets wet by splashing water over your bandage.If it does, that means the bandage isn't completely sealed, or it's not waterproof like the packaging says.Make sure the tape around the bandage is secure if your piercing got wet.If it's difficult to create a seal on your ear, push down the tape so that it covers everything.
Step 6: While swimming, check the bandage frequently.
For hours at a time, waterproof bandages won't stay on.As time goes by, they will begin to peel off.To make sure the water is not leaking through, it is important to check the bandage regularly.If you suspect that your piercing is getting wet, you should get out of the water, clean your ear, and apply a new bandage.If you don't have to touch the bandage, try not to.You can see if the bandage is starting to come off by looking at your ear.
Step 7: The bandage should be removed immediately after swimming.
As soon as you get out of the water, make sure to remove your bandage because it is important that new piercings get plenty of air.Make sure the area was dry after removal.If not, wash the piercing with soap and water.Before you touch the bandage, make sure to wash your hands with soap and water.There are germs that can be transferred from your hands to your ear piercing.
Step 8: Purchase a swimming cap that protects the ears.
Swimming caps are easy to find, but not all of them are designed to cover the ears.Some may only cover part of the ear.When shopping for swimming caps that cover the ear, do your research.It's important to find one with ear protection.Most sporting good stores and online carry swimming caps.When shopping for a swimming cap, make sure to check the material it is made from.Swimming caps made of spandex are not recommended.Water will easily get through the fabric of your piercing, and it will most likely get wet.Silicone, latex, and rubber have the highest water protection.
Step 9: If your hair is long, pull it back in a bun or ponytail.
When you put on the cap, make sure it is secured with a hairband.Water might get on your piercing if you leave your hair out or don't secure it completely.Purchase a swimming cap that accommodates your hair if you have a lot of it.It is loose on the top to keep the water out and fit your hair at the same time.
Step 10: Take the swimming cap off your head and ears.
It is time to put the cap on when your hair is out of the way.To do this, hold the front of the cap on your forehead and tilt your head down.The back of the cap should reach the nape of your neck when you stretch it over your hair.Tuck your ears into the cap so that your piercing is completely covered.The cap should be adjusted until it feels right.Your hair should be tucked into the cap as much as possible.
Step 11: Purchase a band.
Purchase a neoprene ear band if you can't find a swimming cap to protect your ears.It is similar to a headband, but it is waterproof and will cover your ears while you swim.There are headbands in different sizes for both children and adults.They can be purchased at a sporting goods store.If you are worried about the band slipping while you swim, you can place a swimming cap over it.
Step 12: If you have long hair, put it up in a ponytail.
Before putting on the headband, it is best to put your hair up and away from your face.Bring your hair up into a high ponytail if it is long enough.If your hair is down, it can pull at the band while you are swimming.
Step 13: The center of the ear band is on your forehead.
If your ear band has a fastening, put the center of it on your forehead.It will not completely cover your ears if you put it too far up.
Step 14: Attach the ends of the ear band to your neck.
The fastening needs to be adjusted so that it fits around your head.Make sure your piercing is completely covered with the band while you put it on.If you want to cover your ears completely, you need to slide your ear band down a bit.