Jewelry Embedding Information

The most common reason for jewelry embedding, or “sinking in”, is swelling of the piercing site. This can be a normal part of healing and immune reaction to the “foreign object” of the piercing, or it can be caused by damage. Either way, it can cause the site to be painful and red - visible signs of distress. Use of hot water compress can soothe the pressure caused by fluid. And it is important to begin these right away because the swelling makes the embedding worse. Expect an increase in visible fluid discharge following hwc as it helps to thin the fluids and relieve pressure. If not improving after 24-hours, schedule a care appointment.

Another common reason for jewelry embedding is specifically with earlobe piercing and is the result of tight earring backs. Make sure to monitor this closely during the healing process. If the earlobe is red or swollen - check the earring back right away and adjust gently. Begin hot water compress to reduce the swelling and fluid build up. Make sure to not twist or turn the earlobe when doing these care steps.

This is also an ongoing issue with healed earlobe piercings, as well, and will result in torn or stretched-out piercing channels. The earring setting should sit just above the surface of the earlobe. A tight earring back will cause the setting to sink into the front surface. A healthy, healed earlobe piercing looks like a small, dark dot.