Minor complications following piercing are common, however, particularly if the area is not properly cared for. You shouldn't remove the earring or other jewelry inserted by the piercing procedure for several weeks because every time you insert the ring into the skin, you may also be inviting bacteria that can cause infection. To reduce that risk, swab newly pierced areas twice a day with the antiseptic hydrogen peroxide, then dab on an antibiotic ointment such as Polysporin. After about a week, soap and water should be sufficient to keep the area clean.
Irritations often result from a sensitivity to nickel and other metals found in inexpensive jewelry.
The best choice for newly pierced ears, for example, is surgical-grade stainless steel. Clean earrings and other jewelry with rubbing alcohol before inserting them. Wash the area with soap and water. If the redness and swelling don't disappear within a day or two, return to the hydrogen peroxide and antibiotic ointment treatment. See your physician if the infection doesn't clear up within a few days.