You can typically change your ear piercing earrings after about 6 to 8 weeks if it is a standard lobe piercing, provided there is no redness, pain, swelling, discharge, or other signs of irritation or infection. This timeline allows the piercing to heal sufficiently so that changing jewelry won't cause damage or infections. Cartilage piercings, such as helix, tragus, or other ear cartilage locations, take longer to heal—usually between 3 to 6 months or even up to a year in some cases. For these, it is safest to wait at least 3 months before changing earrings and to confirm the piercing is fully healed with your piercer. Signs your piercing is ready to be changed include no discomfort when moving the earring, no redness or swelling, absence of discharge, and overall comfortable healing. If unsure, it is always best to consult with a professional piercer before changing your earrings to avoid complications. Aftercare such as regular cleaning with saline solution also ensures proper healing. In summary:

• Lobe piercings: wait 6 to 8 weeks.
• Cartilage piercings: wait 3 to 6 months or longer.
• Change earrings only after confirming no signs of irritation or infection.
• Consult a piercer if uncertain.

This guideline helps prevent infection, scarring, and prolonged healing.