[carlybearx3]

I got my cartilage pierced 9 days ago and it seemed to be fine. Now it's red and is tender. There isn't any puss or scabs but it hurts to touch or lay on. Is this normal or is it infected? :confused:

[nauticalstar420]

This is normal. The cartilage in our ears is very sensitive so it tends to be a little more tender. If you show any signs of extreme swelling or yellowish to greenish discharge that doesn't smell that great, then it is probably infected. If that happens, see a doctor for some antibiotics.

Try not to sleep on it as much as possible, don't use that ear to talk on the phone.. stay away from stuff like that. Also, don't play with it a lot. Rotate it ONCE when you clean it, otherwise don't touch it. When you rotate it, make sure your hands are clean with antibacterial soap as well. Make sure you leave this piercing in for at least 12 weeks, then you can change it to another earring. :)

[vrock131]

Good answer nauticalstar! I'm 12 and I'm getting mine done I'm just afraid of the infection

[Star_Ruby]

What you've described is normal. Your cartilage piercing will likely be tender for the next month or more. Cartilage piercings can take a year to fully heal. If you notice a lot of pain, increased redness and swelling, or smelly green/yellow discharge, then see a doctor.