Yes, generally, you should take earrings out when swimming, especially in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water.
Why Remove Earrings Before Swimming?
Several factors contribute to the recommendation of removing earrings before swimming:
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Risk of Infection and Irritation: Water, particularly in pools and hot tubs, contains bacteria, chlorine, and other chemicals. These can irritate the piercing site and significantly increase the risk of infection, especially in new or unhealed piercings. Earrings can trap moisture against the skin, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.
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Damage to Earrings: Chlorine and saltwater can damage certain metals and stones used in earrings, causing them to tarnish, corrode, or even disintegrate.
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Loss of Earrings: The force of the water, especially in waves or during vigorous swimming, can dislodge earrings. Losing an earring is a common occurrence while swimming.
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Potential Snagging Hazard: Earrings, especially dangling ones, can snag on swimsuits, hair, or pool equipment, potentially causing injury or damage.
Considerations for Different Types of Earrings:
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New Piercings: It's crucial to remove earrings from new piercings as little as possible during the healing process (typically 6-8 weeks for earlobes, longer for cartilage). If you must swim, protect the piercing with a waterproof bandage and clean it thoroughly afterward with a saline solution.
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Older, Healed Piercings: While the risk is lower for healed piercings, the possibility of irritation, infection, and damage to the earrings still exists.
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Expensive or Sentimental Earrings: To avoid loss or damage, it's always best to remove valuable earrings before swimming.
Exceptions:
- In some cases, small, simple studs made of hypoallergenic materials like titanium or surgical steel might be safe to wear for short periods in clean, fresh water. However, it's still recommended to clean the area thoroughly afterward.
What to Do After Swimming With Earrings:
Even if you choose to wear earrings while swimming, proper aftercare is essential:
- Clean the Piercing: Gently clean the piercing and the surrounding skin with a mild, antibacterial soap and water or a saline solution.
- Dry the Area: Thoroughly dry the piercing area to prevent moisture buildup.
- Check for Irritation: Monitor the piercing for any signs of irritation, redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a doctor.
In conclusion, removing your earrings before swimming is generally recommended to prevent infection, irritation, damage, and loss.
