Why is sleep a problem?
Putting pressure on the same spot for a long time at night leads to irritation, bumps and the jewellery tilting. Because you turn over without realising it while sleeping, this is one of the most common causes of irritation.
Ear piercings
- Use a travel (donut) pillow; you can sleep on your side by placing your ear in the space in the middle.
- Arrange your pillow for sleeping on your back or turn to your other ear.
- Change to a clean pillowcase often; hair and sweat carry bacteria.
Nose and septum
When lying on your side, switch the side that touches the pillow. Choose a soft, lint-free pillowcase. With septum jewellery, flipping it up causes fewer problems while sleeping; follow your piercer's advice.
Belly piercings
Avoid sleeping on your stomach. Tight pyjamas and waistbands push the jewellery; choose loose cotton clothing.
Small details
If the piercing is still sensitive, you can consider a protective cover while sleeping for a short time; however, avoid bandages that create a sealed environment and stop air getting in. Getting used to it can take a few weeks.
Sleeping position tips
The best sleeping position for a new piercing is one that doesn't put pressure on the pierced side. With ear piercings, sleeping on your back or turning to the other side is ideal. If you can't avoid sleeping on your side, these solutions help:
- A neck pillow or a pillow with a dip in the middle: leaves the ear free.
- A travel pillow with a hole in the middle that stops the ear being pressed.
- Changing your pillowcase often and keeping it clean.
- Placing a flat, soft surface on the pierced side instead of a pillow.
Nose, navel and other spots
With nose piercings, sleeping face down and rubbing against the pillow can cause irritation; sleeping on your back is safer. With belly piercings, sleeping on your stomach and tight pyjama waistbands create pressure; loose, soft clothing should be preferred. With a septum, some people flip the jewellery up at night, but this should be decided based on your piercer's advice.
Should jewellery be removed at night?
No. Removing or changing jewellery in a new piercing risks closing and irritation. It is more important to use simple, flatback jewellery of the right length so it doesn't catch on anything while you sleep. If the jewellery is too long, it puts pressure on the piercing when lying down; consult your piercer about shortening it.
How do you set up your sleep routine?
In the first weeks after a piercing, your sleep routine is no less important than daily aftercare. Before going to bed, clean around the jewellery, tie your hair up and make sure your pillowcase is clean. Changing the pillowcase often reduces dust and bacteria coming into contact with the piercing. A cotton pillowcase increases sweat and friction less than silk or synthetic ones. Avoid wire or hook earrings that can easily catch.
If you get irritation while sleeping
If you notice redness, tenderness or a small crust in the morning, there is usually pressure at night. Changing your pillow, adjusting the side you sleep on and resting your ear in the hollow of a travel pillow is often enough. A “donut” pillow with a hole in the middle is very helpful for ear piercings. With nose and lip piercings, it is important not to bury your face in the pillow. If the problem doesn't improve, show your piercer to check whether the jewellery length is suitable.
Common mistakes
- Sleeping on the same side every night
- An unclean pillowcase
- Sleeping with a tight bandage
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your piercer or doctor about your personal situation.
Official and reliable sources
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FAQ
Does a travel pillow really work?
Yes. By placing your ear in the space in the middle, you remove the pressure completely; it is especially effective for side sleepers.
What should I do if my jewellery comes out while sleeping?
Keep the jewellery that came out sterile and clean; if the piercing is closing, don't try to force the jewellery back in, and go to your piercer.
Are there sleep precautions for a nose piercing?
Changing the side you sleep on and using a clean pillowcase is enough; avoid pressure from a thick pillow.
This content is for general information only and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment.