Winter is full of cozy layers, holiday plans, and frosty mornings — but as magical as the season can be, it’s also one of the most challenging times for healing piercings. Cold temperatures, dry air, bulky clothing, and constant movement can easily irritate tender tissue if you’re not prepared.
Whether you're healing a fresh lobe or protecting a new cartilage piercing from the elements, here’s everything our piercers want you to know about keeping your piercing healthy throughout the winter.ere our professional piercers answer your most common (and sometimes surprising) questions.
1. Scarves & Sweaters: Your Piercing’s Worst (and Best) Winter Friends
Soft layers are a winter staple — but they’re also one of the most common causes of piercing irritation.
Be mindful of:
– Snagging: Knits, scarves, and wool fabrics can catch on jewelry.
– Pressure: Thick collars or hoodies can press against a healing piercing.
– Heat & moisture: Wrapped scarves can trap humidity, which irritates cartilage.
How to protect your piercing:
– Use smooth fabrics when possible (cotton, fleece).
– Avoid wrapping scarves tightly around fresh piercings.
– Put on sweaters before earrings or ear jewelry.
– For cartilage piercings, tuck scarves behind the ear if possible.
Piercer tip: A single snag can set your healing back weeks — take a few extra seconds when dressing and undressing.
2. Hats, Beanies & Ear Warmers: Use With Caution
Winter headwear is cozy, but it can cause pressure, friction, and micro-movement — all things a healing piercing hates.
If you’re wearing hats or beanies:
– Choose looser, softer fits to reduce pressure.
– Avoid thick seams landing directly on helix or flat piercings.
– Don’t pull hats off quickly — lift gently around any healing areas.
Ear warmers & headbands:
– Avoid tight bands that press directly on cartilage.
– If you must wear them, choose ones with adjustable tension.
Piercer tip: If your job or climate requires constant headwear, consider piercing a lower-pressure area (like lobes) during winter and saving cartilage piercings for spring.
3. Dry Winter Air = Dry Skin = Slower Healing
Cold weather + indoor heating = dryness everywhere — including around your piercing.
Combat dryness by:
– Cleaning gently with sterile saline — not harsh soaps
– Avoiding over-cleaning, which can create further dryness
– Moisturizing the skin around (not on) the piercing
– Staying hydrated to support tissue healing
Hydration matters: Well-hydrated skin is stronger, calmer, and less prone to irritation — so drink water, use a humidifier, and avoid touching your piercing with dry hands.
4. Redness in the Cold? Totally Normal.
Cold air can increase blood flow to the area, making ears temporarily red or tingly.
To minimize cold irritation:
– Cover your ears loosely when outdoors
– Avoid going from very cold to very hot temperatures rapidly
– Let your piercing adjust before touching or cleaning it
Piercer tip: Redness that disappears once you’re warm again is normal; redness + swelling + throbbing is not — reach out if you’re unsure.
5. Keep Your Jewelry Stable & Secure
Winter is not the time to experiment with jewelry changes (unless your piercing is fully healed).
For healing piercings:
– Keep your initial jewelry in
– Avoid hoops until fully healed
– Check that flat-back posts are secure but not tight
For healed piercings:
– Double-check clasps before wearing hats or scarves
– Choose low-profile pieces for winter sports or travel
– Opt for smooth designs to prevent snagging
Piercer tip: If you're unsure about a jewelry change, stop by the studio — we’ll take care of it safely.
6. Aftercare During Busy Winter Schedules
Holiday travel, work events, and winter activities can make aftercare feel like a chore — but a simple routine goes a long way.
Easy winter aftercare routine:
- Clean with sterile saline 1–2 times per day
- Avoid touching or rotating jewelry
- Keep the area dry and protected
- Give your piercing a quick clean after sweating or being outdoors
- Be gentle with winter layers — slow and steady wins
Piercer tip: Throw a mini saline spray in your bag — perfect for quick cleanings on the go.
7. When to Ask a Piercer for Help
Contact Hone if you notice:
– Persistent swelling
– Sudden pain
– Discharge that isn’t clear
– A snag or injury to the area
– Jewelry that feels tight or embedded
We’re here to help you heal smoothly all season long.
Winter Piercings Are 100% Doable — With the Right Care
Winter doesn’t have to get in the way of your healing journey. With a little preparation and a few smart habits, your piercing will stay comfortable, clean, and irritation-free all season.
Whether you’re getting pierced this winter or caring for a new piece from earlier in the year, our team is here to guide you, support you, and help you keep your ear stack glowing through the cold.