How Do I Get Rid Of My Piercing Bump?

What Are Piercing Bumps?

First, you need to understand what piercing bumps are and what causes them. Piercing bumps are small, raised, often reddish or skin-coloured lumps that are gelatinous in nature that can form near a healing ear piercing. They’re common—especially with cartilage piercings—and while they may look alarming, they’re usually harmless and manageable. If you have concerns about your piercing consider booking an appointment with us to help you troubleshoot.

What Do Piercing Bumps Look Like?

• Small, flesh-coloured or red bump

• Soft to the touch (may feel tender)

• Typically located right at the piercing site

• Can appear shiny or dry and crusty

• May come and go throughout the healing process

Why Do Piercing Bumps Happen?

Piercing bumps can be caused by a variety of factors, especially during the healing process. Here are the most common reasons:

1. Friction or Pressure
   Sleeping on the piercing, wearing tight headphones, helmets or glasses, not downsizing when there's room on the bar or frequent touching can irritate the area.

2. Poor Aftercare
   Over-cleaning, under-cleaning, or using harsh products like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.

3. Low-Quality Jewelry
   Jewelry made from materials that contain nickel or coated metals can trigger allergic reactions and bumps.

4. Trauma
   Accidentally snagging your jewelry or bumping it can cause the body to respond with inflammation and fluid buildup.

5. Incorrect Jewelry Size or Placement
   A post that’s too short, too tight, or poorly placed may stress the tissue and result in bumps.

6. Bad Angle
   If your piercing was done at a bad angle (meaning an angle that's not perpendicular to the tissue), you could form a bump on the obtuse side. 

   
   
   
   

    

Piercing Bumps vs. Keloids: What’s the Difference?

Important:
Keloids are not the same as piercing bumps. Keloids are a type of excessive scar tissue that grows beyond the area of the piercing and does not go away on its own. If you suspect you have a keloid, consult a dermatologist or doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How to Troubleshoot Piercing Bumps

✅ Stick With Saline
Use a sterile saline solution twice a day to gently cleanse the area. Avoid alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or tea tree oil unless advised.

✅ Avoid Sleeping on It
Use a travel pillow or sleep on the opposite side to avoid pressure and friction.

✅ Don’t Pick or Squeeze
It’s tempting, but picking at the bump can lead to infection or scarring.

✅ Wear Hypoallergenic Jewelry
Try implant-grade titanium or 14k gold.

✅ Downsize When Healed
Once swelling subsides, consult your piercer about switching to a shorter post to reduce movement.

✅ Try Chamomile Compresses
Some find relief with warm chamomile tea bag compresses to soothe inflammation.

Please note that if your piercing was done at an angle or has shifted to heal at an angle due to pressure (sleeping, etc), the only way to resolve persistent issues is to remove the piercing, let it heal and re-pierce at a later date. 

Piercing Bumps vs. Moisture Bumps: What’s the Difference?

Another common issue that people confuse as piercing bumps are moisture bumps. These are most common in children's piercings and often don't form at the site of the piercing, they form between the ear and the head. In order to resolve these, the best treatment is to ensure the area is completely dry after each cleaning and shower. You can use the cool setting on a hair dryer or non-woven gauze to dry the area. Also ensure that no wet hair is left to rest on the area. 

When to See a Professional

If the bump grows larger, becomes very painful, or oozes yellow or green fluid, you may have an infection or a more serious issue. And if you’re unsure whether it’s a keloid or just a piercing bump—don’t guess. Reach out to your piercer or a doctor for guidance. Please note that a piercer cannot diagnose infection, so it's best to see your doctor if you suspect infection.

Need Help With a Piercing Bump?
Stop by our studio for a piercing checkup consultation and aftercare advice—we’re here to help you heal safely and beautifully.