First ear piercings for children – when, how and with which jewelry?
For many little girls (and boys), the desire for ear piercings often comes earlier than expected. Sparkling earrings and cute studs are very appealing—after all, mom, big sister, or even your favorite princess from the book wears them too. But at what age is it really a good idea for children to have their ears pierced? Children's first ear piercings—when, how, and with what jewelry? And what should parents definitely consider when choosing their first earrings?
In this blog, we answer the most important questions about children's first ear piercings , show you which children's jewelry is suitable for beginners - and what you should definitely pay attention to when piercing and during the healing phase.
1. At what age can children get their ears pierced?
The decision as to what age a child can get their ears pierced is very individual—and often culturally influenced. In some countries, it's common to pierce ears as a baby, while many experts recommend waiting until age 5–6 or even later.
🩺 Recommendation of many pediatricians:
Wait until your child is old enough to express their desire and understand the care effort involved—around 5–6 years old . Important: The child should consent voluntarily and not because of peer pressure or parental wishes.
2. Where should ears be pierced?
There are two options here:
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At the jeweler or piercing studio
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In selected pharmacies or at the pediatrician (less frequently)
🔍 Pay attention to the following criteria:
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Hygiene & sterility of the environment
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Use of sterile disposable cartridges (no reloading!)
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Certified staff training
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Advice on aftercare
💡 Tip: Avoid piercing with the traditional "ear piercing gun." Modern systems like Studex or Inverness are gentler, more hygienic, and much better suited for children's ears.
3. How does ear piercing work for children?
The procedure is usually quick and painless:
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Counseling session with parents and child
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Disinfection of the earlobe
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Mark the position (check in the mirror together with the child!)
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Piercing with disposable cartridge , often both sides at the same time
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Aftercare instructions for home
Duration: only a few minutes – but the aftercare is crucial!
4. Which earrings are suitable for freshly pierced ears?
To start with, special medical first plugs are important:
✔️ Material: Best surgical steel , titanium , 14k gold or 925 silver
✔️ Nickel free & hypoallergenic
✔️ Secure closure , e.g. screw cap or safety plug
✔️ Smooth pen , no hooks or sharp edges
✔️ Small, flat motifs , e.g. flowers, stars, hearts
Little Bijou doesn't offer cheap, fancy jewelry made from inferior materials. All products are crafted from 14-karat gold or 925 silver. The lovingly selected collections are ideal for first-time ear-stockers .
5. Ear piercing care – how to heal well
The healing time is approximately 6 weeks , during this time careful care is important:
🧴 Clean daily: With a mild disinfectant or sterile saline solution
🔁 Do not remove or twist: Leave alone for at least 6 weeks
💧 Avoid water: No swimming in the lake/pool, careful when washing your hair
🛌 Sleep on your back: To avoid friction
🧤 Clean after sports or games if the ears sweat
After the healing time, you can carefully replace the original plugs with other models.
6. When is the best occasion for the first earrings?
🎂 For a birthday, 🎄 for Christmas or 👼 for communion: for many children, ear piercings are an emotional gift that will be remembered for a long time.
Many families choose the 5th or 6th birthday because that's when the child is consciously there - and can wear the earrings with pride.
💝 At Little Bijou you will not only find beautiful first earrings , but also a large selection of lovingly designed children's earrings for special occasions - child-friendly, tested and enchanting.
Conclusion: Ear piercings for children – a decision with heart and responsibility
Ear piercings for children are a special step. It's important that the child is ready, that everything is done hygienically, and that the first earrings are high-quality and skin-friendly. With a little patience and care, children and parents can enjoy a beautiful new piece of jewelry – and Little Bijou has the perfect selection 💫