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Image Credit: The Good Brigade/Getty ImagesYou find a beautiful pair of earrings and put them on, but within half an hour, your ears start to hurt. As statement earrings grow in popularity, this common jewelry dilemma is becoming more frequent.
“Heavy earrings can gradually stretch the earlobe tissue, resulting in enlarged piercing holes or drooping lobes,” says Sam Rizk, MD, FACS, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon at Manhattan Facial Plastic Surgery. He recommends opting for lighter earrings daily and reserving heavier ones for special events.
Fortunately, there are several clever strategies to ensure your sensitive ears stay comfortable during those special events. Below, we’ll explore various methods to avoid discomfort and stretching while still rocking your favorite statement earrings.
What Causes Earlobes to Stretch Over Time?
Earlobes are incredibly fragile and lack ligaments or bones to support their shape. This makes them prone to stretching or deformation, even from minor pressure—such as the weight of earrings or the natural pull of gravity.
“With time, earlobes can stretch, which can add years to your appearance and create noticeable changes,” explains Anil R. Shah, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon at Shah Facial Plastics in Chicago. “In the short term, this can cause irritation and pain, and sometimes the piercing hole may elongate immediately.”
He also notes that prolonged use of heavy earrings can lead to further stretching, elongating the earlobes. In severe cases, the piercing holes can stretch so much that they become prone to tearing.
Struggling with Stretched Earlobes? Several quick medical solutions can address stretched earlobes or volume loss, such as fillers for mild cases. Dr. Rizk mentions that a simple stitch or two can sometimes suffice, while more severe cases may require lobe reduction, with or without fat transfer. He notes that about 25% of his facelift patients opt for this procedure.
5 Tips to Wear Heavy Earrings Without Discomfort or Stretching
Discover some brilliant tips to enjoy heavy earrings without the pain or risk of stretching your earlobes.
1. The Band-Aid Method
This classic DIY trick is a proven solution for heavy earrings. Cut a one-inch piece from the adhesive part of a bandage and stick it to the back of your earlobe. Insert your earrings through the bandage before securing them. This adds a supportive layer between your earlobe and the earring, reducing strain and discomfort.
2. Lobe Tape
Lobe tape is a more refined alternative to the Band-Aid method. “Adhesive earlobe supports, such as lobe tape, offer additional lift and reduce strain,” says Giselle Prado-Wright, MD, MBA, the medical director at Exert BodySculpt in Fort Myers, Florida.
3. Lobe Lifters
Lobe lifters are an innovative solution designed with physics in mind. Dr. Shah explains that they evenly distribute the weight across the earlobe, preventing stress on the piercing site. This makes it easier to wear heavy earrings while also reducing the appearance of sagging or stretched lobes.
4. Upgrade Your Earring Backs
Dr. Prado-Wright suggests replacing your earring backs with wider, cushioned options or choosing earrings that come with these features. Standard backs concentrate pressure on a small area, which can cause stretching. Wider backs, known as support or stabilizing backs, distribute the weight more evenly, reducing strain on your earlobes.
5. Keep Your Earlobes Hydrated
Healthy, moisturized skin is essential, even for your earlobes. Incorporate daily moisturizing into your routine, especially if you frequently wear heavy earrings. “Before wearing statement earrings for an event, pamper your ears by applying a lightweight hydrating cream or serum the night before to boost skin elasticity,” advises Dr. Prado-Wright. For best results, pair this with one of the heavy earring hacks mentioned earlier.
