Piercings are a great way to express yourself, but sometimes you may want to remove them. If you have a tragus piercing, you may be wondering how to unscrew it safely and easily. Here are some tips to help you get the job done.
The first step is to gather your supplies. You will need a pair of pliers, a small bowl of warm water, and a cotton ball. Dip the cotton ball in the warm water and use it to clean the area around the piercing. This will help to remove any dirt or bacteria that could cause infection.
Next, grasp the ball on the back of the piercing with the pliers. Twist the ball counterclockwise until it is loose. Once the ball is loose, you can gently pull the piercing out of your ear. Be careful not to pull too hard, as this could cause pain or damage to your ear.
Materials Required
To safely and effectively remove a tragus piercing, you will need the following materials:
Tools and Equipment:
- Piercing needle or small, sharp object: This is to prick your skin and release the piercing attachment.
- Gauze pads: To clean the piercing area and absorb any fluids.
- Q-tips: To gently clean and disinfect the piercing site.
- Sterile saline solution: To flush the piercing area and remove any debris.
- Antibacterial soap: To wash your hands before and after handling the piercing.
- Gloves: To protect your hands from any potential infections.
Jewelry Removal Tools:
- Jewelry pliers: To grasp and remove the piercing jewelry.
- Small scissors: To cut any loose jewelry attachments or threads.
- Piercing ball attachment: To screw onto the piercing post and provide a handle for removal.
Additional Items:
- Mirror: To see what you are doing and ensure precision.
- Good lighting: To clearly visualize the piercing area.
- Calm environment: To prevent any distractions and ensure a safe procedure.
Sterilizing the Equipment
Ensuring the cleanliness of your tools is paramount to prevent infection. Here’s a detailed guide on how to sterilize your piercing equipment:
Materials
Item | Instructions |
---|---|
Piercing needle or captive bead ring | Steam sterilize in an autoclave for 20 minutes at 121°C (250°F) |
Piercing forceps | Boil in water for 10 minutes |
Piercing clamps | Soak in antiseptic solution for 10 minutes |
Gloves | Wear new, sterile gloves |
Numbing the Tragus
Numbing the tragus before unscrewing the piercing is recommended to minimize discomfort. Here are the steps:
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, 30-60 minutes before removing the piercing. These medications will help reduce pain and inflammation.
Cold compress
Apply a cold compress to the tragus for 10-15 minutes before starting. The cold will numb the area and make it less sensitive.
Topical numbing cream
Use a topical numbing cream that is specifically designed for piercings. Apply the cream to the tragus and leave it on for 15-20 minutes. These creams contain anesthetics that will numb the skin and make the piercing removal less painful.
Professional numbing
If you are highly sensitive to pain, you may want to consider using a professional numbing agent. A piercer or doctor can administer a local anesthetic to numb the tragus. This option is more expensive but will provide the most effective pain relief.
Holding the Piercing Steady
Once you have located the balls on the ends of the tragus piercing, you will need to hold the piercing steady. This is important to prevent the piercing from moving around while you are trying to unscrew it.
To hold the piercing steady, use your thumb and forefinger to grip the ball on one side of the piercing. Then, use your other hand to grip the ball on the other side. Make sure that you are holding the balls tightly, but not so tightly that you are squeezing them.
Holding the piercing steady is important to prevent the piercing from moving while you are trying to unscrew it. If the piercing moves, you may not be able to get a good grip on the balls, and you may end up stripping the threads of the piercing.
Here are some additional tips for holding the piercing steady:
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Use a pair of pliers. | If you have difficulty holding the balls steady with your fingers, you can use a pair of pliers. Just be careful not to squeeze the balls too tightly with the pliers. |
Wrap the piercing with a cloth. | If you are worried about scratching the piercing, you can wrap it with a cloth before you hold it steady. |
Get someone to help you. | If you are having difficulty holding the piercing steady on your own, you can ask someone to help you. |
Unscrewing the Ball
To unscrew the ball, follow these steps:
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Wash your hands
Before handling your piercing, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.
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Hold the piercing steady
Use one hand to hold the back of the piercing in place, and the other hand to grasp the ball.
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Turn the ball counterclockwise
Gently turn the ball counterclockwise while applying slight pressure. Do not force it if it does not move easily.
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Loosen the ball
Continue turning the ball counterclockwise until it becomes loose. You may need to use a pair of tweezers or a cloth if it is too difficult to turn by hand.
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Remove the ball
Once the ball is loose, carefully remove it from the piercing post. If the ball is stuck, try soaking it in a warm saline solution to loosen it.
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Use a mirror | Use a mirror to help you see the piercing and ball clearly. |
Be patient | Unscrewing the ball may take some time and effort. |
Do not overtighten | Do not overtighten the ball when screwing it back on, as this can damage the piercing or cause discomfort. |
Removing the Jewelry
6. Removing the Labret
Removing a labret stud involves unscrewing the top ball or disc from the back of the post using a pair of appropriate pliers or your fingers. Once the top is removed, the post can be carefully pushed out from the front of the piercing.
For a captive bead ring, the captive bead must be removed first. This can be done by gently squeezing the bead with a pair of pliers or your fingers until it pops open. Once the bead is removed, the ring can be unscrewed from the piercing.
For a barbell, the balls on either end must be unscrewed using pliers or your fingers. Once the balls are removed, the barbell can be gently pulled out from the piercing.
If you encounter any difficulty removing the jewelry, do not force it. Seek assistance from a professional piercer to avoid damaging the piercing or causing injury.
Cleaning and Aftercare
Cleaning
It is important to keep your tragus piercing clean to prevent infection. You should clean it twice a day with a mild antibacterial soap and water. Make sure to rinse the piercing thoroughly after cleaning it.
Aftercare
Here are some aftercare tips for a tragus piercing:
- Avoid touching or playing with the piercing.
- Do not remove the jewelry for at least 6 weeks.
- Keep the piercing dry and clean.
- Avoid sleeping on the pierced ear.
- See a doctor if you experience any pain, redness, or swelling.
How To Unscrew Tragus Piercing
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Wash your hands with soap and water.
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Gather your materials. You will need a pair of tweezers, a clean cotton ball, and a bowl of warm water.
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Soak the cotton ball in the warm water.
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Gently hold the tragus piercing with the tweezers.
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Use the cotton ball to clean the piercing. Do not twist or turn the jewelry.
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Unscrew the ball from the post.
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Remove the jewelry from the piercing.
Some people may experience some bleeding or bruising after unscrewing their tragus piercing. This is normal and should subside within a few days.
Symptom |
Cause |
Treatment |
---|---|---|
Redness |
Infection |
See a doctor |
Swelling |
Infection or trauma |
Apply a cold compress and see a doctor if it does not go away |
Pain |
Infection or trauma |
Take over-the-counter pain medication and see a doctor if it does not go away |
Potential Difficulties
Unscrewing a tragus piercing can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, by being aware of the potential difficulties, you can be better prepared to deal with them should they arise.
1. Pain
Removing a tragus piercing can be painful, especially if it hasn’t been removed in a while or if the piercing is infected. The pain can be dull and throbbing or sharp and stinging.
2. Swelling
Swelling is another common difficulty that can occur when removing a tragus piercing. This swelling can make it difficult to get a good grip on the piercing and can also make it more painful to remove.
3. Bleeding
Bleeding is another potential difficulty that can occur when removing a tragus piercing. Bleeding is usually caused by tearing the skin around the piercing. This skin is delicate and can easily be torn if you’re not careful.
4. Infection
Infection is another potential difficulty that can occur when removing a tragus piercing. An infection can occur if bacteria enter the piercing while it is being removed. This can lead to redness, swelling, pain, and drainage.
5. Scarring
Scarring is another potential difficulty that can occur when removing a tragus piercing. If you remove the piercing prematurely, you may end up with a scar. This scar can be permanent or it may fade over time.
6. Difficulty getting a grip on the piercing
The tragus is a small and delicate part of the ear, which can make it difficult to get a good grip on the piercing. This can make it difficult to unscrew the piercing, and can also increase the risk of tearing the skin.
7. Piercing is stuck
In some cases, the tragus piercing may become stuck and difficult to remove. This can be due to a number of factors, such as scar tissue or swelling. If the piercing is stuck, it is important to seek professional help to avoid causing further damage.
8. Other difficulties
In addition to the difficulties listed above, there are a number of other potential difficulties that can occur when unscrewing a tragus piercing. These difficulties can include:
Difficulty | Causes | Solutions |
---|---|---|
Piercing is too tight | Jewelry was screwed on too tightly, or swelling has occurred. | Apply a warm compress to the piercing to reduce swelling, and try to unscrew the jewelry again. If this does not work, seek professional help. |
Piercing is too loose | Jewelry was not screwed on tightly enough, or a spacer is missing. | Tighten the jewelry by screwing it clockwise. If a spacer is missing, contact the piercer for a replacement. |
Piercing is bent | Jewelry was bent during insertion or removal. | Do not attempt to straighten the jewelry yourself, as this could cause further damage. Seek professional help. |
Piercing is embedded | Skin has grown over the piercing. | Seek professional help to have the piercing removed. |
Tips for Success
1. **Wash your hands:** Always begin by washing your hands to prevent the introduction of bacteria.
2. **Locate the backing:** Identify the small, flat disc that holds the piercing in place. The backing should be visible on the opposite side of the tragus.
3. **Prepare tools:** You will need a pair of pliers or a piercing removal tool. Ensure they are clean and disinfected.
4. **Grasp the backing:** Using the pliers or tool, gently grip the backing. Avoid squeezing too tightly, as this could damage the piercing.
5. **Twist counterclockwise:** Slowly rotate the backing counterclockwise to unscrew it. Be patient and apply gentle force.
6. **Remove the backing:** Once the backing has been loosened, slide it off the piercing.
7. **Extract the jewelry:** Carefully pull the piercing out of the tragus. Handle the piercing with care to avoid bending or breaking it.
9. Post-Removal Care
1. **Clean the site:** Gently wash the pierced area with a mild soap and warm water. Pat dry with a clean towel.
2. **Apply antibiotic cream:** If recommended by your piercer, apply a thin layer of antibiotic cream to the piercing to prevent infection.
3. **Monitor for signs of irritation:** Observe the piercing for any redness, swelling, or discharge. Contact your piercer if you notice any adverse reactions.
4. **Avoid touching:** Keep your hands away from the piercing to prevent introducing bacteria.
5. **Administer pain relief:** If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce inflammation.
6. **Avoid harsh chemicals:** Do not use harsh soaps, detergents, or jewelry cleaners on the piercing, as these can irritate the skin.
7. **Get professional assistance:** If you have difficulty unscrewing the piercing or encounter any complications, do not hesitate to seek professional help from a piercer.
Safety Precautions
Before unscrewing your tragus piercing, it’s crucial to take the following safety precautions to minimize the risk of infection, pain, or damage:
1. Wash Your Hands
Thoroughly wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds to remove any bacteria or debris.
2. Sanitize the Piercing
Use a sterile cotton ball or gauze soaked in rubbing alcohol to gently clean the piercing and the surrounding area.
3. Gather Supplies
Prepare the necessary tools, including a pair of sterile forceps and a small jewelry box or container to hold the removed jewelry.
4. Position Yourself
Sit comfortably with good lighting so you can easily reach and see your tragus.
5. Steady the Tragus
Using one hand, gently hold your tragus to keep it steady.
6. Grip the Jewelry
Use the forceps to grasp the jewelry securely.
7. Unscrew the Ball or Bead
Slowly and carefully unscrew the ball or bead that holds the jewelry in place.
8. Remove the Jewelry
Once the ball or bead is removed, gently slide the jewelry out of the piercing.
9. Disinfect the Jewelry
Clean the removed jewelry thoroughly with rubbing alcohol to remove any bacteria or residue.
10. Inspect the Piercing
Carefully examine the piercing site for any signs of infection, swelling, or redness. If you notice any abnormalities, consult a reputable piercer or healthcare professional immediately.
How to Unscrew a Tragus Piercing
Unscrewing a tragus piercing can be a daunting task, but it is important to do so if the piercing is infected or if you simply want to remove it. Here are the steps on how to unscrew a tragus piercing:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Gather your materials. You will need a pair of tweezers, a pair of pliers, and a small bowl of water.
3. Soak the piercing in the bowl of water for a few minutes. This will help to loosen the piercing and make it easier to unscrew.
4. Grip the piercing with the tweezers. Be careful not to squeeze too tightly, as this could damage the piercing.
5. Use the pliers to gently twist the piercing counterclockwise. Do not use too much force, as this could also damage the piercing.
6. Once the piercing is loose, remove it from your ear.
7. Clean the piercing with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol.
8. Apply a small amount of antibiotic cream to the piercing.
People Also Ask About How to Unscrew a Tragus Piercing
How often should I clean my tragus piercing?
You should clean your tragus piercing twice a day with a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a commercial piercing cleaner if you prefer.
What should I do if my tragus piercing is infected?
If your tragus piercing is infected, you should see a doctor immediately. Symptoms of an infected piercing include redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. The doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
Can I change my tragus piercing myself?
It is not recommended to change your tragus piercing yourself. It is best to have a professional piercer change your piercing to ensure that it is done correctly and that the piercing does not become infected.