Should I Take My Earrings Out When I Shower?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You wear earrings made of corrosion‑resistant metals such as surgical stainless steel, titanium, or 14‑karat gold, and you prefer a quick shower. Removing them prevents rust, tarnish, and skin irritation caused by prolonged moisture.
• Good fit: Your piercings are still healing (typically the first 6‑8 weeks) or have a history of infection. Taking the earrings out eliminates constant exposure to water, soap, and shampoo, which can soften the skin and increase bacterial entry.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: You use hoop, latch‑back, or other jewelry that is difficult to remove quickly, and you risk dropping or damaging the piece in the shower. In such cases, keeping them on may be safer than a rushed removal.
• Warning sign: The earrings are attached with glue, screw‑type backs, or are part of a permanent setting that cannot be safely detached without tools. Forcing removal can harm the piercing or the jewelry.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Reduces the chance of metal corrosion, prolonging the life and appearance of the earrings.
• Lowers the risk of irritation, infection, or delayed healing for fresh or sensitive piercings.

Cons

• May be inconvenient, especially with small or fiddly backs; you could lose the earrings or damage the closure.
• Repeated removal and re‑insertion can stress the piercing, potentially stretching or irritating the tissue.

Decision Checklist

• Is the earring made of a material that reacts to water or soap (e.g., copper, low‑grade alloy)?
• Is the piercing fully healed and free of recent irritation?
• Can you remove and replace the earrings safely without risking loss or damage?

Alternatives to Consider

If you prefer not to remove your earrings, consider using a waterproof or silicone earring cover, applying a thin barrier of clear nail polish on the back, or choosing jewelry specifically designed for water exposure. For healing piercings, a silicone or acrylic stud can stay in place during showers while still allowing the tissue to breathe.

Final Recommendation

For most people, taking earrings out before a shower is a sensible habit when the jewelry is prone to corrosion or the piercing is still healing. If your earrings are made of durable, non‑reactive metal and your piercings are fully healed, you can generally keep them on—just dry the area gently afterward. When in doubt, especially with new piercings or unfamiliar materials, err on the side of caution and remove them, or consult a professional piercer or dermatologist for personalized guidance.