The initial healing period for nipple piercings is 6 weeks. You should be able to change your jewelry after this time, but you will still have to be careful not to tear or damage the piercing.

If you’ve had a nipple piercing for more than a year and it’s not healed, it might need medical attention. If you’re concerned about your piercing, talk to your doctor or a piercer.

Wait until the area is completely healed before changing the jewelry in your nipple piercing. This usually takes 6 weeks, but it could be as long as 12 weeks if your body is fighting infection or tissue rejection.

Always use clean hands when handling your jewelry and cleaning equipment. Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before touching anything that will come into contact with the pierced area of your body (such as bars of soap or towels).

Never use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on freshly pierced nipples; these products can cause additional irritation and delay healing time. Instead, wash them with warm water and mild soap (avoiding perfumed soaps). Pat dry with a clean paper towel or cloth rather than rubbing them vigorously with a towel.

Last modified: August 2, 2022