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Whether it’s your first, second, or even third ear piercing, you may find yourself wondering exactly what kind of earrings are best for newly pierced ears. (After all, who doesn't want to avoid redness and irritation?) Luckily, the answer is relatively simple. The best earrings for newly pierced ears are made from hypoallergenic metals that won't irritate skin, and they boast a low-profile design that's comfortable enough for continuous wear. The best part: From pearl studs to sparkly cubic zirconia to minimalist bars, they come in a range of styles, so it's easy to find a pair you’ll like wearing 24/7.
What To Consider When Choosing A Pair Of Earrings
New earlobe piercings take about six weeks to heal, and you’ll need to wear your starter earrings both day and night during that time. For that reason, when shopping, you’ll want to look for a pair that’s made from hypoallergenic metal that contains little to no nickel, which may cause irritation. Your best bets will be surgical-grade steel, titanium, or 14-karat gold.
In terms of style, comfort and versatility are key. Stud earrings are recommended for new piercings because they’re non-bulky for sleeping and less likely to snag on clothing and get pulled. (Ouch.) But non-bulky doesn't have to mean boring. Below, you’ll find various shapes, including circles, triangles, bar studs, and more, and some options have cubic zirconia or opal accents if you want a little extra flair. And since the best stud earrings for newly pierced ears tend to have a minimalist vibe so they suit all sorts of looks, you'll get the benefit of a pair that are likely to go with just about any outfit you're wearing.
So if you’re prepping for a piercing, these are the best starter earrings you won’t mind wearing daily.
1
A 5-Pack Of Cubic Zirconia Studs In A Variety Of Colors
This set of cubic zirconia studs includes five pairs in different colors, including classics like silver and gold and fashion-forward rose gold, multicolor, and black. The studs are made from 316 stainless steel (which is surgical-grade), and they come in sizes ranging from 3 to 8 millimeters. Plus, they feature comfy ball-style backings that screw into place, which makes them less likely to come loose and fall off.
According to a fan: “They haven't irritated my skin at all and I've been wearing them non-stop for a while now. They are also some of the only earrings I can sleep in- the backs don't dig into your skin.”
Material: Surgical-grade 316 stainless steel | Colors: Multipack with 5 colors | Styles: 1
2
These CZ Titanium Studs That Are Especially Great For Those With Sensitive Skin
If you already know you have sensitive skin, these cubic zirconia studs are made with implant-grade titanium, making them a great option. This high-quality titanium is lightweight, durable, and completely nickel-free, making this a good choice for anyone who's looking to avoid irritation. They feature butterfly backings and are available in four sizes, but they only come in one style and color.
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Material: Implant-grade titanium | Colors: 1 | Styles: 1
3
A 5-Pack In Pearl & Metallic Options
These surgical stainless steel earrings come in a set of five, ranging in size from 4 to 8 millimeters, so you’ll have options beyond your initial piercing. (You'll probably want to start with the smaller earrings in the set for comfortable sleeping.) The earrings have a simple butterfly backing that’s easy to remove once your ears have healed, and the set is available in five colors, so you can opt for timeless silver and pearl, or go for on-trend shades like rose gold or black. Plus, the classic ball design makes these some of the best stud earrings for newly pierced ears. You can also opt for a set of 2-millimeter stainless steel studs in the same listing.
According to a fan: “Great set of quality earrings. I needed these for new piercings and needed the safety of surgical steel so as not to have any reaction. They are perfectly weighted. Great size choices. Very comfortable.”
Material: Surgical stainless steel | Colors: 5 | Styles: 2
4
These Cute Titanium Geometric Studs
These cute heart-shaped earrings are made from titanium (although it's not implant-grade), and they're available in three total shapes — dots, hearts, and triangles — with small and large size options, so you can choose the ones you find most stylish and comfortable. Plus, the butterfly backings are also made from skin-friendly titanium, too.
According to a fan: “I used them for a brand new piercing and it healed with no problem and I still see no signs of infection despite being horribly allergic to most metals. They don’t oxidize and are good, simple earrings to wear casually.”
Material: Titanium | Colors: 1 | Styles: 5
5
These Earrings In Geometric Shapes
Available in triangle and circle styles, these surgical stainless steel earrings are another great option for newly pierced ears, and the geometric style offers a modern and minimalist vibe. The low-profile studs lie nearly flush against the ears, and they have a brushed finish that creates a cool textured look. They come with butterfly backings, and you can choose from three colors: silver, gold, and rose gold.
According to a fan: “I wanted something simple but cute to wear everyday with the standard studs that you need for new piercings and this definitely fits the bill. I also have a slight metal allergy (pretty sure to things made with nickle) and these earrings don't irritate them at all due to them being surgical steel.”
Material: Surgical stainless steel | Colors: 3 | Styles: 2
6
These Earrings With Colorful Opal Accents
Made with black surgical stainless steel with faux opal centers, these colorful starter earrings are both stylish and super comfortable. The lightweight earrings have butterfly backings, and the opal comes in a range of colors, including purple, hot pink, and white. You can purchase one pair or opt for a two-pack with different colors.
According to a fan: “Had these in for about 5 days now feels like I didnt even get my ears recently pierced. They are true surgical steel and the colors are pretty.”
Material: Black surgical stainless steel | Colors: 6 | Styles: 1
7
These Tiny 14K Gold Studs With Lots Of Sparkle
If you'd prefer 14-karat gold, these yellow gold studs with cubic zirconia are a classic choice at an affordable price. These delicate studs feature a silicone-wrapped butterfly backing for extra comfort while sleeping and are made from solid 14-karat gold. The cubic zirconia stone is in a basket-style setting that’s comfortable to wear all day and there are seven sizes to choose from.
According to a fan: “If you are looking for a super nice, inexpensive (but expensive looking) pair of studs…these are the earrings!! Absolutely LOVE the soft backing that holds the earring in.”
Material: 14-karat gold | Colors: 1
8
A Pair Of Minimalist Gold Bar Studs
Fans of modern, minimalist jewelry will love these gold bar studs. Available in 14-karat white or yellow gold, the tiny bar studs are a versatile and chic addition to your jewelry collection. You can choose between simple bars or ones with tiny cubic zirconia stones, and while these are the priciest earrings on the list, it might be worth spending more if you want to invest in a pair that you’ll wear long after your newly pierced ears have healed.
According to a fan: “Very pretty and simple design.”
Material: 14-karat gold | Colors: 2 (white gold and yellow gold) | Styles: 2
9
These Gold Studs That Come In 12 Styles
With a range of styles to choose from — including diamond-cut circles, moons, hearts, squares, and more — these 14-karat yellow gold studs offer variety at an affordable price. The delicate studs boast a small, comfy profile and have screw-on backs that keep them securely in place.
According to a fan: “My favorite 24/7 earrings. The screw on backs are secure and comfortably sized. And the facets sparkle!”
Material: 14-karat gold | Colors: 1 (yellow gold) | Styles: 12
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