Second Hole Piercing FAQ - By APP Certified Piercers in NYC

2nd Hole Piercings with asymmetrical dangle earrings. One earring features silver chains with a mix of smooth and faceted textures, while the other has delicate gold chains with bezel-set clear gemstones.
A second hole piercing refers to an additional earlobe piercing placed just beyond the first lobe piercing.
  • This piercing is commonly done on both ears but can also be worn as a single statement piercing.
  • It allows for layered jewelry styles and can complement other lobe or cartilage piercings.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Clementine Piercing offers ear lobe piercings in NYC. Johnny Pearce, one of the world's top rated and most trusted piercing professionals , holds tenure at Clementine Piercing in NYC—making it an excellent option for trusted piercing services.

Look for professional, APP-certified piercing studios with:

  • Experienced piercers familiar with technical piercings
  • Strict hygiene and sterilization protocols
  • Positive client reviews and portfolio examples

Please feel free to use trusted resources like the “Find a Professional Piercer” search function on the Association of Professional Piercers website.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

A second ear hole piercing is another term for a second lobe piercing.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Companies like Claire’s, Studs, Rowan, and Piercing Pagoda may offer 2nd hole piercings, but these places are NEVER advised or considered a safe choice for piercing. Professional studios have real piercers who are properly trained for YEARS using aseptic technique and a sterile field, and are always recommended over boutique store employees who only train for a few weeks and/or use piercing guns. Beware of companies that claim their piercers are all RNs.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

A second hole piercing is relatively low on the pain scale since it is done on soft tissue. Often regarded as very similar to traditional ear lobe piercings.
  • Most people describe it as a quick pinch, followed by mild soreness for a few hours or days.
  • Pain level: 1-3 out of 10 (varies based on individual pain tolerance).
  • Healing discomfort: Minimal, though slight swelling or sensitivity may occur.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Pain perception varies, but for most people, the discomfort is brief and tolerable.
  • The piercing itself takes just a second.
  • Any soreness lasts a few days but usually resolves quickly with proper care.
  • If swelling or tenderness persists beyond a week, consult a professional piercer.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Healing for a second hole piercing typically takes 8-12+ weeks, but individual healing time may vary.
  • Factors affecting healing time:
    • Consistent aftercare (using good hygiene, sterile saline solution, and avoiding irritation).
    • Jewelry quality (implant-grade titanium, niobium, or 14k+ solid gold reduces irritation).
    • Lifestyle habits (avoiding sleeping on the piercing, excessive movement, or snagging jewelry).

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Aftercare for a second hole piercing:
  • Avoid any touching, twisting, or playing with the piercing site or jewelry.
  • Gently rinse with water while you shower. Use sterile saline solution or wound wash spray as needed.
  • Avoid harsh soaps, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptics.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

The best earrings for a second hole piercing should be lightweight, hypoallergenic, and appropriately fitted.
  • Recommended materials: Implant-grade titanium, niobium, or 14k+ solid gold.
  • Best styles for healing:
    • Flat-back labret studs (comfortable and flush with the ear).
    • Bezel-set or prong-set studs (minimizes snagging).
    • Small, seamless hoops (only after full healing).

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

  • Coordinated sets for a balanced look.
  • Mismatched studs and hoops for a trendy, curated ear aesthetic.
  • Layered minimal studs for an understated look.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Yes, hoop earrings can be worn in a second hole piercing, but only after full healing.
  • Best hoop styles for healed piercings:
    • Small, seamless hoops or clickers (comfortable and stylish).
    • Thin, lightweight hoops (reduces pressure on the piercing).
    • Titanium or solid gold hoops (hypoallergenic and safe for long-term wear).

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

  • Everyone has different ears and anatomy; the best size depends entirely on the wearer.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Yes, diamond studs can be worn in a second hole piercing once fully healed.
  • Best options:
    • Flat-back diamond studs (for a sleek, comfortable fit).
    • Bezel-set diamonds (prevents snags and irritation).
    • 14k+ solid gold or platinum settings (avoids allergic reactions).

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

The cost of a 2nd hole piercing ranges from $40-$100 for the piercing service fees before adding on the cost of your jewelry. All of which will vary, depending on the studio, jewelry material (e.g. solid gold, implant-grade titanium) as well as piercer expertise.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Yes, you can get a second and third hole piercing in the same session.
  • Pros:
    • Heals at the same time, reducing the need for multiple healing periods.
    • Allows for aesthetic symmetry when curating ear piercings.
  • Cons:
    • Slightly more swelling and tenderness due to multiple piercings healing at once.
    • Requires extra care to avoid irritation.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

It depends on the condition of the previous piercing site:
  • If the old hole is fully closed, it can often be re-pierced in the same spot.
  • If the previous hole is still open but shrunken, ask your piercer about a recovery service to avoid re-piercing.
  • If tremendous scar tissue is present, a piercer may recommend a new placement next to the original site.
  • If the previous piercing rejected or migrated, consult a piercer before re-piercing.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

A professional piercer will assess your lobe anatomy before piercing.
  • Factors considered:
    • Spacing from the first hole (to prevent jewelry crowding).
    • Lobe thickness (for proper support).
    • Distance from the edge of the lobe (to avoid improper placement).
  • If lobes are too small, adjustments may be necessary.

For more information on piercing aftercare, please refer to: https://www.clementinepiercing.com/earpiercingaftercare

Close-up of an ear featuring a silver dagger-shaped earring in the lobe, alongside a small cluster of three silver beads. The combination adds a bold and edgy aesthetic to the piercing.