Yes, you can wear used earrings, but it is highly recommended to clean and disinfect them thoroughly before wearing them.
Why Cleaning Used Earrings is Important
Wearing used earrings without proper cleaning can pose health risks. Here’s why:
- Bacterial Build-up: Earrings can harbor bacteria, especially if they haven’t been worn or cleaned in a long time.
- Infections: Bacteria and other contaminants can cause infections, irritation, and allergic reactions in the ear piercing.
According to the provided reference:
Sterilising your earrings once a month should be enough to keep you safe from bacterial build-up and infections. However, if you buy a second-hand pair of earrings or have some earrings that you haven't worn for a long time, it is also advisable to clean and disinfect them before you wear them.
How to Clean Used Earrings
Here is how to properly clean and disinfect used earrings:
- Wash: Start by washing the earrings with warm soapy water.
- Disinfect: Use a disinfectant solution, such as rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
- Soak: Allow the earrings to soak in the disinfectant for a few minutes to ensure all bacteria is killed.
- Dry: Thoroughly dry the earrings with a clean cloth or let them air dry.
Steps for Using Disinfectant
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash with soap and water |
| 2 | Soak in disinfectant |
| 3 | Dry thoroughly |
Safety Precautions
- Always ensure your hands are clean before handling earrings.
- If you experience any irritation or infection, remove the earrings and consult a doctor.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals that might damage the earrings or irritate your skin.
By following these steps, you can safely wear used earrings.
